Teaching and Learning

A group of new faculty and administrators standing in a circle for introductions during a new faculty orientation mixer at the Richmond Center for Visual Arts

Teaching and Learning
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5230 USA
(269) 387-4200

New Faculty Orientation

Western Michigan University's New Faculty Orientation (NFO) is designed to welcome new, full-time faculty and provide essential information as they begin the academic year. 

NFO focuses on increasing awareness of key resources and supports for faculty and students while fostering a sense of belonging within the WMU community.

Note: Professional (part-time) instructors have their own orientation program.

Hosted by the Office of Faculty Development in collaboration with the Office of the Provost and with support from the Office of the President, NFO offers new faculty members the opportunity to:

  • Provide an overview of resources for teaching, research, and professional growth
  • Facilitate connections with colleagues and campus leaders
  • Increase awareness of services and strategies to support student success
  • Prepare faculty to begin teaching with an understanding of WMU students, course design, and academic policies
  • Develop familiarity with WMU's institutional culture, governance, and community

Following orientation, the Office of Faculty Development, the Teaching and Learning team, and numerous campus partners offer additional workshops and opportunities for faculty to connect, learn, and grow throughout the year. 

Note: Some colleges and departments may also provide their own orientation programs.

Attendees of the 2025 new faculty orientation lined up on the center stairs of Sangren

Program Details

New Faculty Orientation is typically held during the first three days of the fall faculty contract (Monday through Wednesday) before classes begin. All new full-time faculty members and faculty who have changed roles at WMU will receive an invitation with detailed information starting in May.

New Faculty Orientation 2026 Schedule

  • Monday, Aug. 17: 12:45 to 5 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Aug. 18: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Aug. 19: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Questions can be directed to the Office of Faculty Development.
Contact OFD

Human Resources New Employee Orientation (NEO)

Human Resources offers a separate, distinct orientation for all new WMU hires. At New Employee Orientation (NEO), new hires receive essential information regarding benefits, payroll, and working at WMU. New Faculty Orientation follows the Human Resources' New Employee Orientation (NEO) on Monday, Aug. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to approximately noon. New faculty attending the NEO can easily transition to our program.   If faculty or instructors have questions or conflicts, please contact the HR Service Center directly at @email or by phone at (269) 387-3620.