Every department has its own culture that is shaped by shared values, everyday norms, and the ways people interact. In today’s rapidly changing landscape, where higher education is under increased scrutiny, how we show up for one another matters more than ever.

STRIDE hosts the final Focused Conversation of the semester to reflect on:

• How faculty experience and interpret department culture

• The ways norms, values, and expectations shape the academic environment

• How culture influences a department’s readiness to recruit, retain, and support faculty

• Practical ideas for creating more inclusive and resilient department spaces

All faculty are invited to join this dialogue as we reflect, exchange ideas, and work to strengthen the communities that shape UMBC. Your voice matters.

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Additionally, if you haven’t yet completed the UMBC Community, Engagement, and Belonging Survey, we strongly encourage you to do so. The insights gathered will help us better understand how we can foster a more inclusive, equitable, and supportive environment for everyone across campus.