The Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) program is a professional development opportunity that provides assistance to graduate students and post-docs who want to become faculty members at the college level. PFF is a national program established by the Council of Graduate Schools, the Association of American Colleges and Universities, the Pew Charitable Trust and the National Science Foundation.
Fifty-one USC graduate students from 30 departments received their PFF credential in Spring 2018. A PFF credential is awarded upon completion of significant PFF-related experiences. Participants chose activities in each of the three areas of faculty responsibilities: teaching, scholarship/research, and service. For activities to count toward the PFF credential, a participant must complete an activity reflection. Reflections are an opportunity to think about and reflect on the importance and professional development impact of each experience.
An essential element of the PFF program is mentoring opportunities for PFF participants and faculty. PFF participants must participate in at least one mentored teaching experience and may participate in other scholarly activities that include mentor involvement as well. The program encourages development of a positive, sustained mentoring relationship with a faculty member, allowing for a more in-depth look at a successful faculty career.
An awards reception honoring the awardees was held at the Center for Teaching Excellence on Wednesday, May 9. Dr. Cheryl Addy, Dean of the Graduate School and Dr. Heather Brandt, Associate Dean for Professional Development, Graduate School were on hand to congratulate the awardees. Dr. Addy and Dr. Brandt were joined by Dr. Kevin Hull, Assistant Professor, School of Journalism and Mass Communications, Dr. Augie Grant, Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence and Dr. Michelle Hardee, Program Manager of the Center for Teaching Excellence for an informal discussion and Q&A on entering a tenure-track position after finishing graduate school.
The successful Preparing Future Faculty candidates have completed activities designed to prepare them in the critical areas of faculty competence. Earning the PFF credential is an indicator of their initiative and a measure of experience toward becoming future faculty.
Learn more about the Preparing Future Faculty program.