There is a tremendous amount of excitement as we embark upon a new academic year and begin implementation of the university-wide strategic plan.  We have an exciting opportunity to reimagine the professoriate and pursue faculty excellence and academic distinction in innovative new ways.  I look forward to collaborating with our amazing and dedicated Faculty Fellows to launch new programs this year, including new mentoring programs for early and mid-career faculty and a new faculty leadership program in the spring of 2023.  In addition, we are continuing new programming to support the professional development of Teaching, Research, and Practice Faculty, including the Mid-career Faculty Mentoring Program.  The Faculty Affairs team is also sponsoring antiracism conversations for Danforth faculty throughout the academic year and developing a new Search Advocate Program to help ensure that our faculty searches are equitable and inclusive.  Finally, we are coordinating mentoring efforts and capacity-building for faculty in the area of mentorship. 

I am committed to making the faculty experience at WashU a world-class one.  I look forward to partnering with you in this important work.

Best wishes for a successful and productive year,

Kia Caldwell
Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs and Diversity