Turning Fellows into Faculty Diversifying Higher Education Faculty in Illinois Fellowship Conference
About the Conference The Diversifying Higher Education Faculty in Illinois Fellowship Conference is a Nothern Illinois University conference which is held annually and brings together DFI fellows from universities across the state. The day-and-a-half long conference is designed to inform and inspire graduate students of color to consider the professoriate as a career path. The conference helps participants prepare for a career as a college professor through: • • • • •
informative presentations. mini-workshops. roundtable discussions. opportunities to share research. Q&A sessions with professors.
I think programs like this are necessary and it really ensures that graduate
“
students of color understand the step-by-step process to joining the professoriate.�
- 2019 conference participant
I
“ really enjoyed the panels. They were so informative. I really learned a lot from all of the presentations and breakout sessions. I now have tools and knowledge that I plan to take with me on my professional journey.” - 2018 conference participant
Having the opportunity to meet other graduate students and professors who
“
have similar experiences and struggles as my own was great.”
- 2018 participant
The diversity of faculty and the level of expertise of the faculty presenters was
“
very empowering and inspiring. The resources provided were also very helpful.�
- 2015 conference participant
Networking with other fellows and faculty committed to the advancement of
“
minorities in academia was great! Having the opportunity to share with them oneon-one during the meet and greet, as well as learning from peers’ questions during sessions was priceless. Lodging assistance was extremely helpful.� - 2019 conference participant
Thank you for such a wonderful DFI conference! Each speaker shared information
“
that was informative and helpful in planning personal timelines and creating
personal "to-do lists." Many of my questions were answered and my determination revitalized. That feeling of being overwhelmed once again has a manageable shape and form. It was great to speak with fellow doctoral students and share our interests.� - Belinda Green DePaul University
Followship Eligibility To be eligible for the Diversifying Higher Education Faculty in Illinois Fellowship, you must: • Be a resident of Illinois. • Be admitted to a Master’s or Doctoral program at a participating institution. • Be a member of an underrepresented group. • Meet set academic standards for the Diversifying Higher Education Faculty in Illinois Program. • Demonstrate financial need. • Seek and accept a full-time appointment at an Illinois postsecondary educational institution upon graduation.
For more information about the conference, contact: Janice Hamlet, conference coordinator Northern Illinois University jhamlet@niu.edu For more information about the fellowship: Visit www.ibhe.org/dfi.html. Contact your graduate school office for the application submission deadline or if you have questions about the fellowship.