ABINGTON, Pa. — Penn State Abington Chancellor Margo DelliCarpini appointed Rachael Brown, associate professor of math education and program chair for the Elementary and Early Childhood Education major, as the campus’ new director of faculty development. Brown replaces founding director Karen Weekes, associate professor of English and women’s studies, who retired recently, in the role.
“Our strategic plan calls for investing in faculty support and development, which ultimately impacts our ability to create transformative academic experiences for our students. I am pleased that Rachael accepted this role as it represents a significant step toward achieving our institutional goals,” DelliCarpini said.
Brown is charged with supporting faculty across the lifespan of their careers at Abington including managing orientation for new hires, expanding and reconceptualizing mentoring and professional development, and guiding faculty through the complex promotion and tenure process.
"My experience leading professional development and my ongoing engagement in building community with faculty makes me an asset to our faculty development efforts. My knowledge and deep thinking about systems like hiring and retention put me in a good spot, and my service as a local school board member helps me think at the systems level,” she said.
Brown will collaborate with the directors of the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusive Excellence, and Belonging and the Center for Intercultural Leadership and Communication to integrate their work into faculty success and retention initiatives.