Dear colleagues,



I have yet to read the article Rhea has linked in her email, but it is important to observe that one source of faculty overwork is voluntary initiatives that are communicated to faculty as if they were not voluntary.



For example, this morning I received an email from one of the college’s deans regarding the “Sophomore Intiative” that stated “If possible, volunteer.” If we are truly being asked to volunteer, should it not have said something such as, “If you would like to contribute to this initiative, please volunteer”?



This is especially problematic as a message to faculty seeking renewal, continuing appointment, and tenure.



With regards,



Michael



Associate Professor Michael Koch, D.A.

Philosophy Department

SUNY Oneonta



160b Fitzelle Hall

SUNY Oneonta

Oneonta, NY 13820



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607.436.3721





From: Teaching Breakfast List <[log in to unmask]> on behalf of "Nowak, Rhea" <[log in to unmask]>

Reply-To: Teaching Breakfast List <[log in to unmask]>

Date: Monday, August 9, 2021 at 10:44 AM

To: "[log in to unmask]" <[log in to unmask]>

Subject: Over all idea of this article is good



Hi All,

I’m not sure if I agree with all of this article but I agree we will need to be proactive in preventing our own burnout and fatigue. This will support our students as well as ourselves.

What do you all think?



https://www.chronicle.com/article/8-strategies-to-prevent-teaching-burnout?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=campaign_2695098_nl_Academe-Today_date_20210809&cid=at&source=&sourceId=



be well,

best,

Rhea