Online Faculty Conference in Savannah
Monday, September 28, 2009
South University hosted a three-day conference for its online full-time faculty members at Savannah’s historic hotel, The Mansion on Forsyth Park. This national conference included remarks from Chancellor John South and Joseph Harm, Vice President for Academic Affairs at South University, along with 20 sessions covering numerous topics such as The Future of Online Education, Being a Well-Rounded Faculty Member, Best Practices in Online Teaching, Mentoring Adjunct Faculty and The Role of General Education in Undergraduate Studies.
“The online learning environment changes as quickly as technology changes,” said Andrew Hurst, online vice president for South University. “And in this fast-paced environment it is critical to keep everyone focused on delivering one of the best online learning experiences possible to our students. An important part of delivering on that commitment is providing the venue for our faculty, Deans, and educational support staff to collaborate on practical solutions that address the current and further needs of our students.”
This conference represents the institution’s fourth gathering of its online faculty in Savannah. South University began delivering online programs in 2004, and the popularity of the online offerings, with their flexible schedules and accessible faculty, have driven significant growth year over year for the previous five years.
“Our academic leadership was eager to address and engage face to face with our online faculty,” said Douglas Stein, Ph.D., academic director of online and blended programs. “Everyone works incredibly hard to support our students, so it was energizing for our faculty to build new relationships and rekindle valued acquaintances at the conference.”
About South University
Established in 1899, South University is a private academic institution dedicated to providing educational opportunities for the intellectual, social and professional development of a diverse student population. South University offers educational programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels with campuses located in Columbia, S.C.; Montgomery, Ala.; Richmond, Va., Savannah, Ga.; Tampa and West Palm Beach, Fla.
Further information on South University is available at: www.southuniversity.edu.