Faculy Profile: Jennifer Gallagher

Name: Jennifer Gallagher

Title & Department: Associate Professor, Department of Elementary, Middle and Secondary Education and Director of Faculty Development

What does your new role as the Director of Faculty Development involve, and what are you most looking forward to in the position?

One of my first priorities is leading  the COE New Faculty Orientation sessions this year and helping our newest faculty build strong roots in the college. I’m also launching cohort meetings for faculty in years two through five so they can connect across departments as they navigate career milestones and pursue their professional goals. In addition, I’m piloting new resources through the Faculty Resource Community and learning more about mentorship within the college and across ECU so we can continue strengthening our mentorship supports. Across all of this work, I’ll collaborate closely with Associate Dean Janeé Avent Harris, learning from her expertise while helping to build upon and expand the many faculty-support initiatives she has already put in place.

What are some of your goals for your first year in this role?

One of my biggest goals is to build a more intentional system of faculty development supports that extends across career stages. I want faculty to have access to resources, connections, and opportunities that feel meaningful to where they are in their careers and that are offered at the right times throughout the academic year. Ultimately, I hope we can create a structure that anticipates faculty needs and milestones, supports the different goals faculty pursue, and remains responsive to changing contexts within the college and beyond.

What are you hoping to bring to the role based on your experience at ECU?

I bring a passion for faculty success in all its different forms (research, teaching, service) and the many ways faculty define meaningful careers for themselves. Over my time at ECU, I’ve built relationships across departments and have had the opportunity to see so much of the great work being done by our faculty. I hope to leverage that expertise through models, resources, mentorship, and connections that help new faculty deepen their roots at ECU while creating new pathways for their own success.

What excites you most about the opportunity to serve in this new capacity?

I’m excited about the opportunity to help build a stronger culture of connection across the college. There is so much expertise already here, and I love the idea of creating more opportunities for faculty to learn from one another, share what works, and find the people and resources that can help them reach their goals.

What’s something fun or unique you’d like people to know about you?

I love live music! I’ve been to 19 Brandi Carlile concerts and probably even more Indigo Girls shows. Seeing live music is one of my favorite ways to spend an evening.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy traveling and spending time outdoors, especially anywhere with tall trees and cold water. I love exploring new places and discovering what makes each one unique—from its history and food to the activities of everyday life.