NE North Dakota News

The University of North Dakota held its annual New Faculty Orientation on August 22, welcoming new faculty members with a program focused on building connections and providing support as they begin their roles. The orientation included sessions designed to introduce newcomers not only to campus systems but also to the university community.

President Andrew Armacost addressed the new faculty, emphasizing the importance of community and support at UND. “Our No. 1 goal is to love your people, our students and our community at UND,” Armacost said. “Supporting your students, supporting each other — that’s what community at UND looks like.”

Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs Randi Tanglen described the event as an opportunity for new faculty to become familiar with resources and establish relationships with colleagues. “New Faculty Orientation sets the stage for connection, belonging and shared purpose at UND,” she said. “This year’s incoming faculty cohort is especially impressive — their talent, creativity and dedication will enrich our classrooms, research and communities in ways that strengthen UND’s mission and impact.”

Throughout the day, participants received information about university policies, teaching practices, and technology platforms such as Blackboard. Mentorship was highlighted as a key resource for those transitioning into their roles.

Darshil Patel, a faculty member in Forensic Science who recently arrived from Canada to join the new master’s program in his field, noted the value of mentorship programs like the Alice T. Clark Mentoring Program. He also expressed appreciation for how supportive his colleagues have been since his arrival: “It’s been great meeting all the people in my department and other new faculty members today,” he said. “I think the best thing has been seeing all the support from the University. It helps us feel like we’re not alone.”

Faculty participated in case studies addressing academic integrity issues, use of artificial intelligence in coursework, and managing classroom discussions respectfully. Jeffery Carmichael led these exercises alongside a panel including Alex Pokornowski (dean of students), Scott Correll (registrar), Donna Smith (associate vice president for Equal Opportunity & Title IX), and Tamba-Kuii Bailey (associate vice president and advisor to the president for Community & Belonging). Bailey commented on the complexity of these scenarios: “These are complex, they’re nuanced, and I don’t think there is a perfect ‘yes, do this,’ or ‘don’t do this or you’ll fail,’” he said. “They fall in those points in between.”

Moones Alamooti joined Energy and Petroleum Engineering after earning her doctorate at UND; she hopes her experience as a former student will help improve outcomes for her own students: “As a student, I felt where things could be improved,” she said. “Now as faculty, I feel like I can contribute more and help to make sure students have a great experience.”

Nicole Martin from Nursing & Professional Disciplines valued meeting colleagues face-to-face after only knowing them by email; Melanie Kamp appreciated her peers’ support during her transition from adjunct to full-time faculty: “Everyone I’ve met has been wonderful — very open and supportive,” Kamp said. “I’m ready for the challenge.”

President Armacost closed by encouraging ongoing connection among colleagues: “If you see someone you don’t know, say hi, introduce yourself,” he told attendees. “You never know when that relationship yields a new research idea. Magic happens when you meet people.”