Program Overview

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 two fellow new-to-UT faculty members and pairs your trio 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

• First-year, full-time faculty of any rank or status
• Teaching at least 1 course in the fall semester and 1 course in the spring semester

Spots in VFL are secured on a first-come, first-served basis following our announcement at the New Faculty Teaching Institute. Prospective participants must sign up no later than September 1st to secure their place, though program enrollment may close before the deadline.

Program Requirements & Deliverables

The program will begin with an interactive kickoff meeting, during which you’ll meet your cohort peers and mentor, as well as other participants and mentors, hear from TLI about our offerings for the fall, and learn more about the program.

During the fall semester, VFL offers a curated selection of events to enhance your teaching toolkit. Participants will:

• Attend at least one TLI workshop or event of their choice
• Complete a master teacher observation experience to gain insights into exemplary teaching practices
• Meet with their cohort group twice for 90 minutes of collaborative reflection and strategizing
• Similarly, in the spring semester, participants will:
• Attend at least one TLI workshop or event of their choice
• Complete two peer teacher observation experiences of their cohort members
• Meet with their cohort group twice for 90 minutes of collaborative reflection and strategizing

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 not only honors their hard work but also 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.

The VFL Launchpad has reached its capacity for this semester. Stay tuned for updates in 2025!