Program Overview

Volunteer Faculty Launchpad (VFL) invites new-to-UT faculty to participate in a year-long experience of professional growth and camaraderie. As a participant, you will be part of an exclusive cohort that connects you with fellow new-to-UT faculty members and pairs your cohort with an experienced UT faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching. Through VFL, faculty members will: 

• Receive guidance from accomplished mentors
• Collaborate closely with peers to celebrate successes and discuss challenges
• Gain access to resources tailored to elevate your pedagogical skills
• Earn recognition for your commitment via stipends totaling $1,000

Eligibility and Enrollment

This program is open to faculty who are:

• In their first year as full-time faculty, regardless of rank or appointment status
• Scheduled to teach at least one course in both the fall and spring semesters  

VFL enrollment: 

• Opens following the announcement at the New Faculty Teaching Institute
• Is available on a first-come, first-served basis
• Remains open until August 17th at 11:59 PM (ET)

Note:  Program enrollment may close before the deadline if all spots are filled.

Program Requirements & Deliverables

The program will begin with an interactive kickoff meeting, where you will meet your cohort peers and mentor, connect with other participants and mentors, learn about TLI’s fall offerings, and gain an overview of the program.

VFL will offer a curated selection of events to enhance your teaching toolkit.

During the fall semester, participants will:

• Attend at least one TLI workshop or event of their choice and complete a brief reflection.
• Complete a peer observation of an experienced faculty member to gain insights into exemplary teaching practices.
• Meet with their mentor and cohort group twice, each session lasting 90 minutes, for collaborative reflection and strategizing.

During the spring semester, participants will:

• Attend at least one TLI workshop or event of their choice and complete a brief reflection.
• Complete one peer observation of a cohort member to offer feedback and enhance teaching practices.
• Meet with their mentor and cohort group twice, each session lasting 90 minutes, for collaborative reflection and strategizing.
• Complete a brief exit survey to reflect on your participation in VFL and provide feedback on the program. 

In recognition of their dedication, participants will receive a $500 stipend, disbursed as additional pay, at the end of the fall and spring semesters, totaling $1000 in additional pay.

Celebration of Achievement

All cohort members are celebrated at an end-of-year luncheon that honors their hard work and continues to foster connections within our academic community. It’s not just about professional development; it’s about becoming part of something bigger—a lifelong network that supports each other through every step of their UT journey.