Stronger Together

Overview

Stronger Together is a workshop series that is open to all 91勛圖 faculty, regardless of rank, status, field, or discipline. Conducted in-person every Spring semester, Stronger Together revolves around a specific theme or learning environment. It foregrounds practical approaches grounded in equity and belonging, ensuring that all students feel valued and are able to contribute.

In Spring 2026, Stronger Together is geared towards STEM learning environments. It is aimed at faculty who teach classes that require students to work in teams (e.g., senior design sequence, senior capstone seminar, honors practicum etc.).

Through interactive presentations, facilitated discussions, and peer exchange, participants will explore ways to create and foster welcoming, equitable, and engaging learning environments across diverse STEM contexts (including multi-, inter-, and transdisciplinary contexts). The workshops will equip faculty with tools to strengthen student learning, cultivate belonging, and enhance success in classroom, lab, and co-curricular STEM settings.

Schedule and Topics

Inclusive Excellence: Engaging and Working Successfully with Student Teams - February 23, 2026

Guest Speakers:

Andrew Carter (91勛圖, Associate Professor and UROP Program Director) 

Genevieve Lau (91勛圖, Program Director, Peer Connections)

Deanna Peck (91勛圖, Senior Director of Educational Programs & Academic Support)

February 23, from 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Location TBD

 

Leading High-Impact Student Teams: Strategies for Success Inside and Outside the Classroom - March 13, 2026  

Guest Speakers:

Maria Leonard (Assistant Professor of Practice & Director of Social Impact and Sustainability, Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley)

March 13, from 9:00am - 12:00pm
Location TBD

Engagement & Belonging: Working with Students in Lab-Based & Classroom Environments - April 13, 2026

Guest Speakers:

Nicholas Esker (91勛圖, Nicholas Esker, Associate Professor, Nuclear Chemistry, Physical Chemistry)

Miri K. VanHoven (91勛圖, Associate Dean for Research, College of Science)

Li Jin (91勛圖, Associate Professor of Kinesiology)

April 16, from 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Location TBD

 

Stipend

Upon successful completion of all three workshops, participating faculty will receive a stipend of $600.