Meeting the Needs of Diverse Faculty: Perceptions About Mentoring at a Public Research-Intensive Institution

• In Event: Park Central Roundtable Session 11
  In Roundtable Session: Research on Mentoring Initiatives

Abstract

Stemming from a Context-Input-Process-Product evaluation of a faculty mentoring program, this study explores the perceptions and experiences of diverse faculty at a research intensive institution. Results indicate that mentoring programs must focus on the unique individual and collective needs of faculty across rank in addition to a multitude of other identifying demographic characteristics. Failure to meet the needs expressed by faculty is likely to contribute to turnover and organizational instability as faculty will choose to work at an institution that recognizes them as partners. Diversification of the university requires a diversified approach to mentoring within the academy. Study data inform necessary changes in the current program and will guide the next iteration of the evaluation.

Authors

• David A Brackett, University of North Texas

• Noelle Angeline Paufler, University of North Texas

• Soo Jeong Kim, University of North Texas