Specialist Faculty Peer Mentoring Community
Supporting Specialist Faculty Through Transition, Growth, and Connection
About the Community
The OFDAS Specialist Faculty Peer Mentoring Community supports Specialist faculty to foster professional growth, strengthen professional connections, and support participants in achieving their career development goals.
Read on to learn more about the program, details, eligibility requirements, mentor and mentee expectations, and application information.
Interested in joining a Specialist Mentoring Hui?
Participate in the Specialist Faculty Peer Mentoring Community
The community is open to Specialist faculty at UH Mānoa who are interested in participating as mentees and to experienced faculty members who wish to serve as mentors. UH Mānoa Specialists can also join the Community to explore guidance on career development, advancement, networking, and institutional resources through monthly hui, workshops, and talk story sessions.
Responding to Specialist Faculty’s Evolving Needs
As the Specialist faculty classification was phased out, questions emerged regarding the professional status, responsibilities, and future career pathways of Specialist faculty who continue to serve in legacy positions at UH Mānoa.
To better understand these experiences and identify opportunities for institutional support, the Office of Faculty Development and Academic Support (OFDAS) conducted a needs assessment that included focus groups and a follow-up survey with Specialist faculty across all ranks. Participants shared their perspectives on professional identity, career development, workplace challenges, and mentoring needs.
The findings revealed a strong interest in mentoring, professional networking, and resources tailored to the unique circumstances of Specialist faculty. The Specialist Faculty Mentoring Program was developed in response to these findings.
The Community’s Goals
Support the professional development of Specialist faculty in legacy positions.
Provide guidance and mentorship related to career growth and advancement.
Foster a supportive community of colleagues and peers.
Create opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
Connect participants with institutional resources and professional development opportunities.
Monthly Agenda for Specialist Mentoring Huis
Hui guidelines and extended program for can be accessed here (Google doc).
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September |
Understanding Your Roles, Expectations, and Evaluation |
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October |
Understanding the Dossier |
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November |
Understanding UH Manoa T&P Criteria and Guidelines and |
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December |
Specialist Faculty Peer Mentoring Community Talk Story Session |
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January |
Documenting Accomplishments and Demonstrating Impact: Showing How You Meet the Criteria |
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February |
Building Visibility and Professional Networks |
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March |
Scholarship, Innovation, and Professional Contributions |
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April |
Specialist Faculty Peer Mentoring Community Talk Story Session: Reflection, Celebration, and Next Steps |