Service Philosophy

Purpose

My commitment to service within the university is rooted in a desire to reciprocate the mentorship, risk-taking, and investment extended to me by benevolent professors, advisors, and administrators. These dedicated professionals have instilled in me a profound recognition that the cultivation of future scholars requires more than mere teaching and research. It calls for an intentional and holistic approach encompassing guidance, support, and feedback. It is their exemplary work that has not only facilitated my current position but also inspired me to actively contribute to the continuous tradition of fostering intellectual growth and professional development within the academic community.

Photograph by Beatrice Bankauskaite

Direction

The operation of a functional, productive, and contributing organization relies on extensive behind-the-scenes effort. This involves more than just the overt tasks of teaching and research; it encompasses the intricate processes and responsibilities integral to the system's very essence. When members of the organization come to recognize and engage with these often-overlooked facets, embracing the duties inherent to the institution's internal mechanisms, they contribute to a more efficient and effective functioning. This collective effort not only enhances the overall performance of the system but also optimizes the allocation of resources, allowing for a swifter return to the core missions of teaching and research. It is an approach that recognizes the interdependence of all elements within the organization, fostering a collaborative ethos that benefits the entire academic community.

Motivation

The mentality of "I figured it out; you figure it out" is antithetical to the spirit of teamwork. Genuine collaboration involves paving the way for those who follow, ensuring that collectively we can advance further and with greater ease. My foremost contribution within the university context lies in assisting students and scholars to explore the myriad possibilities before them. Guiding them in taking calculated risks, I seek to enable them to harness both the challenges and benefits that higher education offers. This endeavor is a committed effort to foster growth, innovation, and success within our academic community, affirming the underlying principles of cooperation and shared progress.

  • Kelsky, K. (2015). The professor is in: The essential guide to turning your Ph.D. into a job. Three Rivers Press.