The New Academic Leader Onboarding, hosted by the Office for Academic Personnel & Faculty, is designed to equip newly appointed faculty leaders with the tools and perspectives they needed to thrive at the University of Washington. This two-day event—featuring both in-person and virtual sessions—brought together senior academic leaders and campus experts to explore key topics in academic leadership, including governance, equity, financial planning, compliance, and faculty development.
Through interactive discussions and informative presentations, participants gained a well-rounded foundation to lead with confidence and integrity.
We’re already looking ahead to next year’s program—stay tuned for details on the next New Academic Leader Onboarding, and plan to join us for another opportunity to connect, learn, and lead.
Highlights from the 2025 New Academic Leader Onboarding
The 2025 New Academic Leader Onboarding, hosted by the Office for Academic Personnel & Faculty, brought together newly appointed chairs, directors, and academic leaders from across the University of Washington for two days of learning, connection, and reflection on the art and practice of academic leadership.
The in-person day, held on September 15 in the Husky Union Building, opened with coffee and networking before a warm welcome from Vice Provost Fredrick Nafukho and the OAPF leadership team. Together, they outlined how the office supports academic leaders throughout the full cycle of faculty success—from recruitment and retention to development and inclusion.
Morning sessions provided an insider’s view of UW’s financial planning and resource allocation, led by Scott Coil, Director of University Budget Operations, followed by a lively panel discussion with current and outgoing department chairs. Panelists shared candid insights into navigating leadership transitions, building departmental culture, and balancing service with scholarship.
The afternoon session, “Shared Governance at UW,” featured leaders from the Faculty Senate who unpacked the essential roles and responsibilities of shared governance and the Faculty Code. The conversation underscored how collaborative leadership and mutual respect between faculty and administration remain central to UW’s academic excellence.
The second day, held online on September 16, featured sessions on resilience and compliance in academic leadership. Mari Ostendorf, Vice Provost for Research, discussed strategies for sustaining research and leadership resilience amid shifting academic and global landscapes. The event concluded with an engaging presentation on civil rights at UW, led by Jane Yung and her team, highlighting the University’s commitment to equity, accessibility, and compliance in all areas of academic life.
Reflecting on the experience, one academic leader shared, “This onboarding offered exactly what new chairs need—real conversations with peers, practical insights from campus experts, and a reminder that leadership at the UW is both a privilege and a shared responsibility.”
The Office for Academic Personnel & Faculty extends gratitude to all presenters and participants for making the 2025 session a success—and invites new academic leaders to join us next year for another opportunity to connect, learn, and lead with purpose.