The BPS PUI Network, sponsored by the Education Committee, was formed to bring PUI faculty and individuals aspiring to work at PUIs together. The goal of the network is to create an environment for current PUI faculty to share experiences with one another. Graduate students and postdocs interested in obtaining academic positions at PUIs are encouraged to join.
To kick off the new network, the PUI Network sponsored its very first webinar on August 11, 2020, titled “Challenges and Opportunities Teaching at a PUI During 2020.” Webinar registrants had the opportunity to express their topic(s) of interest for panelists to discuss. Some of the topics that were covered during the webinar included panelists’ individual experiences in conducting remote learning, technology advantages and barriers, as well as how their respective institutions are addressing the issue of racism and discrimination. The webinar also featured a Q&A session. The moderators and panelists were:
Marc Edwards, Amherst College
Afra Panahi, Emmanuel College
Anu Seshan, University of California San Marcos
Mark Testori, Bay Path University
Yadilette Rivera- Colón, Bay Path University, moderator
Kambiz Hamadani, University of California San Marcos, chat moderator
To connect PUI Network members and continue the conversation from the webinar, a group was created within BPS Forums, which is BPS’ online communication platform. BPS members who have indicated their interest in the Network are automatically subscribed to the group where they can communicate with other Network members, and be part of a growing community. If you would like to be part of the PUI Network, sign up at https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/NGXJYS9. Questions regarding the PUI Network can also be directed to Joon Kwak at [email protected].