The American University of Nigeria (AUN) hosted its Spring Semester Faculty Retreat on January 18, 2025, in the 24-hour Library. The retreat aimed to orient and integrate newly recruited faculty into the American-style education system, while providing a platform for returning faculty to exchange innovative ideas and experiences. The event also served as a social gathering to prepare for the upcoming academic challenges of the Spring semester.
In his opening remarks, AUN President Dr. DeWayne Frazier welcomed the faculty to the new year, highlighting the institution's collective achievements, aspirations, and hopes for the future. "This retreat is an opportunity to connect with professional colleagues, share ideas, and foster collaborations that contribute to institutional development and growth," he stated.
Dr. Frazier outlined several significant recent achievements at AUN, including the university's recognition by Times Magazine as the most impactful institution on the continent in peacebuilding and poverty alleviation through community service. He also highlighted collaborations with local and international institutions, the establishment of an American Space on campus, ongoing solar panel installations to transition to greener energy, the vast e-resources available for learning, and strategic plans to enhance student enrollment for financial sustainability. Additionally, he noted the expansion of residence halls and the implementation of the Online Distance Learning (ODL) program as milestones.
Prof. Paul Vita, the new Provost and Vice-President of Academic Affairs, acknowledged the importance of the retreat in fostering collaboration and achieving AUN's teaching, research, and community impact goals. "It is essential to deliver the mission of the university and to create that impact, which requires faculty committed to excellence. My mission is to expand the vision of this university, and this is why I came here," Prof. Vita remarked.
The retreat featured several Heads of Departments who shared their insights on various topics essential for enhancing faculty effectiveness and productivity. The retreat concluded with an extensive interaction session, providing faculty members with an opportunity to share their ideas, suggestions, and proposals.
Reported by John Abah