NEW FACULTY ORIENTATION 2025-2026
Welcome to Grand Valley State University!
We are excited to welcome new faculty this coming Fall (2025)! We are still in the planning process for this event so check this page regularly as we'll update it frequently and as information becomes available.
Orientation will focus on engaging new faculty in a collaborative learning experience focused squarely on student success, community building, and exploration or campus resources for both faculty and news students.
- Highlight critical information about the university, guiding new faculty to construct for themselves a greater understanding of (a) the mission, vision, and values of Grand Valley State University, (b) what is meant by student success, and (c) the hallmarks of a successful new faculty experience
- Model learner-centered teaching strategies (including interactive discussions, experiential learning, case studies, special topic choices)
- Foster a sense of community and build relationships among new faculty
- Motivate new faculty to see themselves contributing to a supportive, collaborative campus community
We look forward to meeting and engaging with you soon!
Registration will open in mid-June, 2025!
New Faculty Orientation Fall 2025
Recognizing that the needs of new faculty who are BRAND NEW to GVSU are different from the needs of faculty who are returning to GVSU or transitioning from one role to another at GVSU (from Visitor to Affiliate, for example), this multi-day orientation is built with optional sessions to allow for differentiation based on the unique circumstances of each new and "new-ish" faculty member. Orientation will provide a robust overview of what it means to be a part of the GVSU Community. The sessions not only equip you with information that will support your success at GVSU but are also designed with built-in opportunities to meet and engage with GVSU leadership and fellow faculty. The hope is that you will leave orientation armed with tools, resources, new relationships and supports, and with a better sense of our Laker Community.
Topics covered over orientation include:
- Introduction to the GVSU Community & Culture
- Profile of GVSU Students
- Faculty Resources & Supports
- GVSU Technology--faculty email, Blackboard, and Banner
- Student Resources & Supports
- Inclusive & Just Campus Community
- Health, Wellness, and Benefits
- Optional Campus Tour
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NEW to GVSU Tenure-Track Faculty (never taught at GVSU before) |
Returning to GVSU; NEW Tenure-Track Faculty Appointment |
NEW to GVSU Affiliate/Visiting Faculty (never taught at GVSU before) |
Returning to GVSU; NEW Affiliate/Visiting Faculty Appointment |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
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Wednesday, August 6, 2025 |
Required |
Required |
Required |
Required |
|
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 |
Required |
Required |
optional |
optional |
|
Thursday, August 7, 2025 |
Required |
optional |
Required |
optional |
|
Thursday, August 7, 2025 |
optional |
optional |
optional |
optional |
|
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 |
Required |
Required |
Required |
Required |
Adjunct Faculty
Fall 2025 New Faculty Orientation
We are excited to welcome new adjunct faculty joining GVSU for the Fall 2025 semester!
Because our adjunct faculty have historically appreciated flexibility in attending orientation, we will be offering a completely asynchronous online orientation program that can be completed at your own pace. This orientation will be available after August 11, 2025 and will provide
- An introduction to GVSU technology including Blackboard, banner, and accessing your GVSU network login
- Overview of faculty supports and resources
- Getting Ready to Teach Checklist and MORE!
Please REGISTER for Orientation so that we can contact you with the Online Orientation link once it goes live.
Additional Resources for New Faculty
Other Ways to Connect
Access the Asynchronous Online Orientation Program
This program will not be available until August 11, 2025.
Valid GVSU Network (login) credentials are required to access this program. If you do not yet have a GVSU network login/credentials, please email us ([email protected])—we can send you temporary credentials to use.
View the 2024 New Faculty Digital Resource Notebook
Check out a curated selection of resources and handouts especially for new faculty.
One-On-One Meeting with our Center Director
Contact us at [email protected] to schedule a meeting.