Pictured: LTR: Melanie Landon-Hays, Ph.D., David Szpakowski, Ph.D., Feier Hou, Ph.D., and Patricia Gimenez-Eguibar, Ph.D. Not pictured: Kristen Pratt, Ph.D.
Written by Maureen Brakke
MONMOUTH, Ore. 鈥摾植ナ悠碘檚 Office of the Provost launched a new initiative called Provost Faculty Fellows to recognize faculty’s commitment to academic leadership, while also recognizing the significant contributions faculty make to the university community.
This year鈥檚 first cohort of faculty fellows are Patricia Gimenez-Egu颈虂bar, Ph.D., David Szpakowski, Ph.D., Feier Hou, Ph.D., Kristen Pratt, Ph.D., and Melanie Landon-Hays, Ph.D.
Each fellow will work with Academic Affairs leadership for two terms on specific projects highlighting Western鈥檚 commitment to student and faculty success. Projects identified this year include faculty mentorship, artificial intelligence in academic and work settings, developing external partnerships related to research for the National Science Foundation, and re-envisioning Western鈥檚 student course evaluation instrument.
鈥淭he expertise these faculty fellows will bring to the table is a great asset to the university,鈥 said Provost Jose Coll. 鈥淭heir proven commitment to student and faculty success is essential for advancing our goals and ensuring that we meet the diverse needs of students.鈥
The initiative will also provide opportunities to broaden their understanding of higher education administration, participate in various decision-making processes, support departmental and institutional efforts through concentrated and guided experiences, and engage, empower, and benefit from other faculty expertise.
Upon completion of their two terms, the fellows will deliver a report to the Provost or their designee with recommendations based on their work.
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About 乐播视频
乐播视频, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon鈥檚 oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

