In the dynamic field of optometric education, where challenges can arise unexpectedly, fostering a resilient and cohesive faculty community is critical. Whether facing shifting educational landscapes, technological advancements, or global pandemics, a united and supportive faculty can navigate uncertainties with strength and purpose. I always knew in my heart that a strong team of faculty could accomplish much more than any individual. I remember well the time that I read Larry Bossidy's book "Execution: the discipline of getting things done". I had a visceral reaction to this book because it went against what I knew about the "ivory tower" of academics. In this book, Bossidy presented a way to create perfect employees and perfect processes. He was obviously not in the business of developing health care providers like me! Here is what I would say that it takes to develop a resilient faculty-
Communication and Collaboration
Communication forms the backbone of any thriving community, and in the realm of optometry faculty, it plays a pivotal role in enhancing unity and resilience. Regular meetings, both formal and informal, provide a platform for sharing ideas, addressing concerns, and celebrating successes. By fostering open channels of communication, faculty members can build trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging. I believe in leadership by "walking around"! Some of my most productive conversations each week were held in the doorways of my faculty's offices. Foster a culture of mutual support and collective progress while instilling hope for the future of the college.
2) A Culture of Support and Empathy
In times of uncertainty, unyielding support and empathy can serve as pillars of strength within the optometry faculty community. Encouraging a culture where faculty members actively look out for one another, offer assistance, and lend a listening ear can create a nurturing environment where individuals feel valued and understood. Think about what we all went through with COVID-19. It was empathy that allowed my College of Optometry to survive those uncertain days. We made phone calls to sick students and faculty. Delivered medication and food to people's doorsteps and provided daily check-ins. All of this served to boost morale but also fortify the resilience of faculty members, enabling them to weather the pandemic with grace and unity.
3) Professional Development and Growth
A community that values continuous learning and professional growth is a community that thrives amidst uncertainties. Providing access to training workshops, seminars, sabbaticals and conferences equips faculty members with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to changing circumstances. Everyone wants to stay at the forefront of advancements in optometry! Mentorship programs, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, and career development resources further empower faculty to expand their expertise, foster innovation, and contribute meaningfully to the community's collective knowledge. National meetings like the AAO, AOA, and SECO provide these opportunities for growth and socialization. Don't underestimate their value to your team!
4) Diversity and Inclusivity
Diversity lies at the heart of a vibrant and resilient optometry faculty community. Embracing diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences enriches the community, sparks creativity, and promotes inclusivity. By creating a space where every voice is heard, respected, and valued, faculty members can leverage their differences to drive innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration. It is so important that your team bring varied perspectives. If everyone went to the same college and were taught in the same system, where will change come from? Celebrate multiculturalism...it will make your team stronger and your college of optometry!
5) Change and Adaptability
In the ever-evolving landscape of optometric education, adaptability and resilience are indispensable qualities for faculty members. By fostering a culture that embraces change, encourages flexibility, and prioritizes innovation, the community can navigate uncertainties with agility and confidence. Think about how AI is going to impact our profession in the coming years! Will we know longer view retinal photos, but rather allow AI to do that for us? Will we no longer create a treatment plan for our glaucoma patients, but rather let AU do that for us? Welcoming new challenges as opportunities for growth empowers faculty members to thrive in the face of adversity, leading the community towards a future filled with resilience and success.
Building a resilient optometry faculty community requires dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision of unity and support. By embracing communication, empathy, professional development, diversity, and adaptability, faculty members can forge a community that stands strong in the face of uncertainty, elevating each other to new heights of success and innovation. You will be creating a team that can survive and grow as they serve the needs of optometry students.
Let's build a community that not only survives but thrives in the face of uncertainty!
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