MTC Staff Professional Development Funding Request
Procedure: Beginning July 1, 2025, staff members can submit a proposal for professional development funding to support their work within Merze Tate College. The professional development proposal form can be found at wmich.edu/merzetate/staff-funding-request. Proposals for the first half of the year will be covered (July 1 – Dec. 31), proposals submitted for the second half of the year will be covered (Jan. 1 – June 30). Deadlines for proposal submission are available below:
| Timeline | Proposal Due | Approval Date |
|---|---|---|
| July 1 - Dec. 31 | No later than Aug. 15 Proposals submitted for events prior to Sept. 1, must be submitted at least four weeks before the scheduled event. | Sept. 1 Adjusted for any PD occurring before Sept. 1 |
| Jan. 1 - June 30 | No later than Feb. 15 Proposals submitted for events prior to March 1, must be submitted at least four weeks before the scheduled event. | March 1 Adjusted for any PD occurring before Feb. 15 |
Proposal submission will be reviewed by Deans and the Business Manager. Decisions will be made on a rolling basis and finalized no later than 3 weeks after the noted deadline. Funding is contingent upon the availability of funds. Proposal submission does not guarantee funding.
What is the limit?
Up to two events/activities will be approved for professional development in a given fiscal year. The Deans and Business Manager will meet to discuss the proposal and determine the amount of funding
that Merze Tate College will provide.
Eligible Uses of Professional Development Funds
- Conference Attendance: Registration fees, travel, and accommodations for conferences, workshops or professional seminars.
- Skill Enhancement: Enrollment in training programs or courses that develop professional skills
relevant to your role. - Collaborative Projects: Initiatives that foster innovation or improve skills or group practices.
- Resource Acquisition: Purchasing books, software, or other materials that directly support professional growth.
- Certification and Credentialing: Costs associated with obtaining professional certifications or licenses that are directly associated with the employee’s WMU job responsibilities.
Additional Guidelines
- All expenses must be pre-approved through a proposal to ensure alignment with resource availability and alignment with goals of Merze Tate College.
- A brief summary of the outcomes and benefits of the development activity is required upon completion.
- Funds must be used within the fiscal year of allocation.
Effective 7/1/2025