There is still over $20,000 available in professional development money to be distributed before the end of this fiscal year.
If we are unable to grant this money to individual members of our unit, we will look at bringing a speaker or workshop to Ferris in order to benefit our group. If you have suggestions for speakers or workshops you would like to bring to Ferris, let us know.
One of the benefits negotiated by your Ferris Non Tenure Track Organization (FNTFO) bargaining committee was an annual professional development fund of $15,000 a year during the term of our contract. But limited opportunities meant we weren’t able to spend the full $15,000 for the last couple of years. Through negotiations, we have a one-time rollover from previous years, which allows us to give out just over $39,000 this year.
If you have been thinking about attending a conference to help with your own personal development, now is the time to apply.
You can find all of the information in MyFSU under the Employee tab. Just look for the FNTFO section, and you will find both the application and the criteria.
To apply, candidates must fill out an application explaining the activity, dates of the activity as well as any early registration deadlines, the rationale for the activity, how it will impact the FNTFO faculty member’s own professional development, the benefit to the classroom and university, as well as a detailed breakdown and total cost for the event. All applications must have three signatures including the applying faculty member’s signature, the department administrator’s signature and the dean’s signature. Applications are then submitted electronically to LindaSherwood@ferris.edu. The committee will then meet to review the request and notify the applicant of their decision.
Be sure you answer the questions completely and provide full details on the cost breakdown as well as the links to the conference or event you plan on attending.
A Quick Background: This benefit was the result of a contract bargaining discussion about the need for high-quality adjuncts that meet not only minimal standards but continue to develop and improve through professional development as well as concerns how adjuncts don’t always have funds available in their personal budget to take advantage of professional development opportunities. Specifically noted was the requirement in the HLC credential requirements for continued professional development of all faculty.
The funds are granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Once a completed application is received, it is reviewed by the professional development committee. Priority is given to experiences that will help you impact your classroom. It is primarily to be used for one-time events such as conferences or workshops.