This session addresses the pressing challenge of enhancing support and development for online adjunct faculty worldwide. With the increasing reliance on adjuncts, there’s a critical need to foster an inclusive ecosystem that values their contributions, provides professional growth opportunities, and supports their professional well-being. Key findings from an ongoing university project will be shared to spark the targeted, offering attendees practical strategies for implementing a sustainable support model for adjunct faculty. 

Evelin Suij-Ojeda, Director of Learning, Innovation and Teaching Excellence (LITE) Center, Westcliff University
Ying Iverson, Chief Academic Officer and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Westcliff University

This presentation addresses how effective online adjunct faculty onboarding, a collaborative academic culture, and continuous enrichment can serve as an opportunity to drive student success. By investing in structured supports that enhance faculty engagement, a positive ripple effect can be created that elevates the student experience. After this session, participants will leave with insights for how to foster a culture of collaboration and growth that benefits both adjunct faculty and students.

Karina Ixta, Academic Affairs Project Manager, Claremont Lincoln University
Manny De La Torre, Dean of Academic Affairs, Claremont Lincoln University

Adjunct faculty serve an important role. However, a commonly held belief among stakeholders is that the adjunct faculty role is less valued than that of their full-time counterparts. This belief has led to retention issues and an overall lack of institutional engagement. With adjunct faculty providing up to 50% of the instruction, including practicums, in some programs, attention must be paid to all aspects of their support, including wellness and a sense of belonging. This session presents a case study of how one University’s programming and inclusive culture supports the online adjunct faculty member. Participants will then have opportunities to consider applications for their own setting to proactively and mindfully plan for policies and programs that support faculty.

Dale Crowe, Associate Professor, Lead Faculty International Education & Globalization Specialization, National University
Laurie Bedford, Professor of Educational Research, National University
Maggie Broderick, Professor - Director of the Advanced Research Center (ARC) and the Editor of the Journal of Online Graduate Education (IJOGE), National University