Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences is proud to introduce the Fulbright Learning Community, a new faculty development initiative aimed at enhancing teaching effectiveness, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting student success.

This program complements existing campus efforts by creating a supportive environment where educators can refine their instructional practices and build meaningful connections with colleagues and student support staff. Aligned with the university's 150 Forward Strategic Plan and Fulbright College's student success priorities, the initiative addresses key faculty development needs through targeted training and intentional engagement opportunities.

"Faculty development is critical to the student success mission of Fulbright College. I'm grateful for this initiative led by the college's student success team, and I am excited to see how our students benefit from this investment," said Brian E. Raines, dean of Fulbright College.

Lynn Meade, teaching associate professor and coordinator of the Fulbright Learning Community, brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to faculty development. A former co-director of the Wally Cordes Teaching and Faculty Support Center, Meade is a trained peer observer, peer mentor and member of the Teaching Academy. Meade presents nationally and internationally the science of teaching and learning. Her work emphasizes evidence-based strategies, active learning and storytelling in the classroom. An award-winning educator, Meade brings both expertise and passion to this role, making her uniquely equipped to lead the initiative.

"Empowered faculty create empowered students," Meade said. "This program is about building a community where educators feel confident, connected and capable. Through this program, we're not just supporting individual instructors—we're cultivating a culture of teaching excellence that elevates the entire Fulbright community."

A key goal of the Fulbright Learning Community is to bridge the gap between faculty and student support services, encouraging collaboration and shared responsibility for student achievement. By increasing awareness of campus resources and fostering a sense of belonging, the initiative supports both faculty growth and student outcomes.

The first workshop was on course building and was designed to help faculty prepare for the upcoming semester. Consideration Oftard, assistant professor of practice for sports media and promotion, writes of his experience, "The workshop opened me up to new ideas of syllabus design and student and classroom engagement, not to mention taking into consideration a student's perspective on my class. I believe I will be more sensitive to my student's perception of my courses from now on."

"Supporting effective teaching and faculty development is paramount to supporting student success," said Romona West, assistant dean of student success, inclusive excellence and strategic initiatives at Fulbright College. "This pilot initiative aims to engage faculty by connecting them with essential skills and resources that fosters student belonging and success in the classroom, ultimately leading to better student outcomes."

Faculty interested in participating or learning more about upcoming sessions are encouraged to visit the Faculty Learning Community website or contact the program coordinator directly.