Through a first-of-its-kind collaboration, the Office of the Provost and the Graduate School have created the Wayne State Pathway to Faculty Program. This innovative initiative is designed to diversify the professoriate at Wayne State, inviting individuals who identify as members of groups historically underrepresented in their chosen field in higher education. The program will consist of two phases, to be carried out throughout the remainder of the academic year.
The first phase will consist of an internal application for Wayne State departments and programs. This application ensures that hiring aligns with unit goals and that departments and programs show inclusive excellence and equity-mindedness.
Interested departments and programs will submit applications to Graduate School Dean Dr. Amanda Bryant-Friedrich. The Dean will chair a committee which will evaluate applications and make recommendations to Provost Mark Kornbluh, who will make the final decision. This committee will also support units during the formation of recruiting and search plans, as well as the hiring process. Applications are due Jan. 31, with final department or program decisions made 30 days after that.
Departments and programs can learn more about the program and apply now online.
“The future of higher education is created by those entering the academy today. Wayne State will be a major driver in this future by welcoming diverse individuals to our institution who are passionate about creating environments where all students at all levels can thrive,” said Bryant-Friedrich. “Through this program, members of each entering pre-faculty cohort will gain the support and experience to create this environment at WSU.”
The second phase of the program will consist of nationally recruiting and hiring pre-faculty fellows. Successful candidates will have shown exceptional promise in research or creative activities. They also must demonstrate a desire to pursue a tenure-track position while advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
Fellows may be doctoral, terminal masters or professional degree seekers/holders who have a confirmed date of degree completion. Individuals who have completed up to two years of post-graduate training can also apply. Fellows will receive 2-3 years of funded post-terminal degree training followed by 2-3 years of funding as an independent, tenure-track faculty member. Up to five fellows, annually, will be hired through this mechanism. The program plans to interview and hire fellows before the beginning of the 2022-2023 academic year.
To learn more about the Wayne State Pathway to Faculty Program, including full details about the departmental and fellow application processes, visit the Graduate School website.