Wentworth Launches Second Round of Faculty Leadership Academy

The work of a professor does not simply take place within the confines of a classroom. It is a complex role that entails conducting research, remaining up to date on the latest trends and technology, and being attuned to matters of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as often providing student services, engaging in community outreach, and promoting economic development.  

With all these pieces of a teaching puzzle, Wentworth Institute of Technology is launching a second round of its successful Faculty Leadership Academy, an eighteen-month program designed to develop the next generation of academic leaders. The academy is open to all Wentworth faculty and staff who teach. 

The program was the brainchild of Susan Duffy, Associate Provost for Transformational Learning and Partnerships, and Sedef Doganer, Dean of the School of Architecture and Design. With the support of President Mark A. Thompson, a four-week pilot program launched focused on deans and associate deans before a full pilot was held last year with eight educators. 

"We felt that this opportunity would complement existing professional development offerings," said Duffy. "We wanted to create a program that would support educators as they develop their leadership skills and become more involved in the ecosystem of the institution while building peer relationships and diverse professional networks.”  

Higher education experts—including Jan Schubert, an educator and consultant with nearly 40 years of experience in organizational development, organizational change, and leadership development—would often attend the sessions and lead customized programming. 

The first offering of the academy drew raves from the Wentworth community, with participants reporting that they gained tremendous skills and knowledge.  

“The Faculty Leadership Academy was invaluable,” said Deirdre Donovan, director of First-Year Math and participant in the first academy offering. “Susan, Sedef, and Jan created a cohesive and rewarding experience.” 

According to Associate Professor Jennifer Lee, who was also part of the inaugural cohort, the Faculty Leadership Academy operates on two levels, with the first serving as an introduction to the leadership and organizational structure of Wentworth and the function and responsibilities of each division, “which would benefit any project a faculty member may decide to take on and lead,” she said. 

Members of the first cohort will be back to help mentor and lead discussion during the second round. FLA 2.0 will include a variety of workshops and activities, such as leadership training, strategic planning, and team building. Participants will also work on self-defined professional leadership projects. 

"We want the academy to be a transformative experience for our faculty," said Doganer. "We want them to leave the program feeling inspired and empowered to make a difference at Wentworth." 

Participants last year describe a genuine dedication from their leaders and mentors, who devoted time between meetings to reflect on previous conversations, thoughtfully considering the guidance, resources, and personalized support that would be most beneficial for each participant 

"[As educators] we spend much of our time supporting and mentoring students, and strategizing how best to help them grow, and fulfilling their potential,” said Lee. “The roles are reversed during the Faculty Leadership Academy. Faculty are given the opportunity, even luxury, of being on the receiving end of that kind of effort.” 

Interested parties should watch for an incoming email from Provost Sophia Maggelakis that will offer more details on the program and application materials.