Student Life at Rowan University
Professional Development Program
Mission Statement
Student Life values and supports the professional growth of its employees, and strives to provide opportunities for knowledge development, skill development and personal development through a variety of relevant programs of interest to staff members. Each employee within the Division is encouraged to regularly assess areas where individual and departmental growth may occur, and to participate in developmental opportunities to meet those needs.
Professional Development Program Model
The Student Life Professional Development Program (PDP) affords education and training opportunities to all staff members throughout the year, with the desired goal of increasing workplace productivity, efficiency, effectiveness and satisfaction. Programs are available in three specific areas of development:
- Knowledge Development
- Increasing one’s knowledge base within one’s specific area of professional expertise;
- Awareness of how student development theories and current trends directly affect the field of Student Affairs;
- Observation, reflection of and practice in developing professional competencies that improve the working environment for self and others.
- Improving professional practice by engaging in shared inquiry and learning with other professionals
- Skill Development
- Increasing workplace competencies that serve to provide more effective and efficient work patterns and productivity.
- Personal Development
- Improving personal health and wellness;
- Awareness of one’s values and their influence on self and others;
- Understanding, appreciating and maximizing one’s talents and competencies;
- Understanding individual areas for growth and the tools for taking positive action;
Professional Development Initiatives
To assist Student Life staff members in the professional development process:
- In order to assess which areas of professional development individuals most desire assistance, a Needs Assessment Survey will be completed by all employees.
- A Student Life Professional Development Program Committee will be charged by the Vice President for Student Life, and will create a multidimensional professional development program that provides ongoing learning opportunities within the areas of increased professional knowledge at the team/department/divisional level, workplace skill development, and personal development.
- A Professional Development Opportunities Calendar will be created on the Student Life web site, where all professional development program information can be listed by any member or department holding a professional development event.
Professional Development Workshops Spring 2011
