Faculty Flourishing Conference empowers online educators with balance and leadership tools
The College of Doctoral Studies held its fifth annual Spring Faculty Flourishing Conference last week. Over 90 online faculty and university staff attended the virtual event, which took place during Teacher Appreciation Week. The conference centred on themes of leadership, teaching impact, and personal balance. The event began with an opening prayer by Dr. Loren Naffziger, followed by welcoming remarks from Dean Dr. Michael Berger. Under the theme Community, Collaboration and Character Development, sessions focused on practical ways to support faculty well-being and teaching effectiveness.
Dr. Ashley Anne led discussions on personal and professional growth, offering tools for managing workloads and maintaining balance. Presenters stressed the need for intentional planning, protecting key priorities, and structuring support systems for long-term success. Emily Farkas also spoke, highlighting how character and values shape teaching practices. Attendees explored strategies for fostering resilience, purpose, and meaningful collaboration in academic settings.
The conference provided faculty with actionable insights for both their professional roles and personal lives. By addressing well-being, intentional teaching, and community-building, the sessions aimed to strengthen faculty flourishing in online education. The event concluded with a focus on applying these principles in daily practice.
