August 14, 2020
Dear new academic,
It is a pleasure to welcome you to Michigan State University. I trust that your time here will bring significant professional accomplishment and personal satisfaction. Like you, I am joining MSU this fall. I will serve as provost and professor and am excited by the work ahead. I know that the processes of recruitment and moving have differed from past years, and there are likely more modifications ahead in the ways we teach, do research and scholarship, and interact. Regardless of the way we work, I am committed to making each of you feel welcome by Zoom or by waving from behind a Spartan cotton mask, and to fostering your success. This year will be like no other in some ways, but just like others in our unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Thank you for being a part of MSU at this time in our history.
To ensure you have the information you need to succeed, below you will find information regarding the
2020 New Faculty and Academic Staff Orientation Program. This orientation will: 1) acquaint you with Michigan State University; 2) identify the values, aspirations, and expectations of the university community; 3) introduce you to campus leaders; and 4) describe additional opportunities for engagement.
New Faculty and Academic Staff Orientation is an expectation for all new full-time academics who are contracted for 90% time or greater for two or more semesters, including tenure system faculty, librarians, health programs faculty, FRIB/NSCL faculty, fixed-term faculty, academic specialists in the continuing system, fixed-term academic specialists, and senior research associates. Others who are in these roles at reduced appointment levels are invited, but not required, to attend.
The 2020 New Faculty and Academic Staff Orientation has several parts:
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Asynchronous Information Overview: Prior to August 18, we will send details on how you should access modules that will provide essential information to aid you in a successful transition to Michigan State University. This information will include helpful resources from a number of campus offices as well as important policies and procedures. We request that you complete your review of these materials prior to August 18.
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Synchronous Online Program on August 18, 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.: This live online session will include a panel discussion that focuses on MSU culture and processes (going beyond information you will have learned in the information modules). The session will also include a virtual “meet and greet” for you to network with your deans, faculty excellence advocates, and other new members of your unit.
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Virtual Information Fair on August 18, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: During the Virtual Information Fair, you will have the opportunity to learn about many MSU offices and resources. Human Resources representatives will be available to answer questions you may have about your benefits. MSU Federal Credit Union representatives also will be available to answer questions about banking, mortgages, and other financial matters. More details will follow in a subsequent email
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Follow-Up Opportunities: Drop-in dates will be available once the semester starts for you to sit for a complimentary professional photo for your portfolio. Also, various units will provide supplemental information and resources or offer workshops as the new academic year begins. We will share information about such opportunities later in the summer.
Please refer to the
New Academics Checklist to assist you in obtaining a parking permit, enrolling for benefits, making arrangements for monthly payments, and finding additional resources. We also encourage you to look at the resources on the
Academic Advancement Network's website, including those related to teaching, such as the syllabus checklist.
The MSU Federal Credit Union is a strong partner with MSU in providing resources for faculty, staff, and students, and supporting many aspects of MSU life. You will receive a letter during the summer to acquaint you with the resources of the MSU Federal Credit Union, which may be helpful as you plan your transition to the area.
For now, please hold the date of August 18 for this orientation. Registration information will be sent to you by the Academic Advancement Network. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Academic Advancement Network at
AAN@msu.edu or (517) 432-1185.
As we begin our journey together, I look forward to hearing from you, listening to your aspirations, and working with you on opportunities in support of academic excellence. Welcome to Michigan State University.
Sincerely,
Teresa K. Woodruff
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
CC: Deans, Assistant and Associate Deans, School Directors, and Department Chairs
