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New Faculty Welcome

A critical component of new faculty onboarding is the various orientation events put on by departments, schools and the Office of the Provost. We encourage new faculty to participate in as many as possible throughout the onboarding process.

The University-wide Office of the Provost New Faculty Welcome for 2025-2026 schedule is posted. Additional details will be added as they are confirmed. New faculty will receive an invitation with additional information via email. If you have any questions, please contact Joan Marie Johnson, Senior Director for Faculty, at faculty@northwestern.edu 

2025 Program Schedule

Sept. 3

Table with events and times
Time Topic/Details
8:30-9 a.m. Breakfast and Conversation
9-9:45 a.m.

Welcome From University Leadership

  • Sumit Dhar, Associate Provost for Faculty 
  • Michael H. Schill, President 
9:45-10:30 a.m.

Impact and Innovation: Faculty Perspectives on Research and Creative Work 

  • Eric Perreault, Vice President for Research 
10:30-10:45 a.m. Break
10:45-11:30 a.m.

Propelling Your Success: Resources for Faculty Community, Well-being and Career Development 

  • Joan Johnson, Senior Director for Faculty, Office of the Provost 
  • Sarah Klaper, University Ombudsperson 
  • Jason Washburn, Director of the Faculty Wellness Program 
  • Jennifer Keys, Senior Director, Searle Center for Teaching and Learning, moderator 
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

How to Make the Most of Your First Year and Beyond: Advice and Tips from Faculty 

  • Sumit Dhar, Associate Provost for Faculty, moderator 
12:30-1:30 p.m. Making Connections: Conversations with Students (includes lunch)
1:30-2:15 p.m.

Promoting Student Well-being and Academic Success: Connecting Students to University Resources and Enrichment Opportunities 

  • Mona Dugo, Assistant Vice President for Wellness and Dean of Students 
  • Karen Smilowitz, Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education  
2:15-2:30 p.m. Break
2:30-4 p.m.

Enriching Learning through Meaningful Conversations: The Art and Science of Transitions 

  • The Searle Center for Advancing Learning and Teaching
4-5 p.m.

Closing Remarks from University Leadership and Reception 

  • Kathleen Hagerty, Provost 

Register here.