Call For Proposals
THE SOCIETY FOR THE FUTURE OF HIGHER EDUCATION’S 2026 CONFERENCE
“The Faculty Advocate”
We invite you to submit a proposal for our annual conference, centered on the theme “The Faculty Advocate.” This year, we’ll take a multidisciplinary approach to explore the strategies, people, programs, technologies, and partnerships shaping the role of faculty in academia. Topics will include advocacy, mentorship, collaboration, professional development, academic-adjacent professions, and the impact of faculty efficacy on higher education, with an emphasis on breaking down hierarchies and redefining faculty roles.
Suggested topics of interest:
- Expanding who are “the faculty”
- What is faculty advocacy?
- Academic freedom for faculty
- Creating nurturing faculty communities
- Defining faculty contributions
SFHE will host a special session specifically for graduate students interested in presenting and receiving feedback on their ongoing research. This session is designed to foster academic growth and collaboration among emerging scholars. While the research presented does not need to align with the conference theme directly, it should resonate with the broader mission of the organization.
Graduate students are encouraged to share:
- Ongoing Research – Present current work and receive feedback on methodologies, findings, and future directions.
- Work in Preparation – Discuss projects in the early stages of development or data collection, with an opportunity for constructive input on refining and advancing ideas.
- Approach to the Job Market – Explore strategies for entering academia, navigating the job market, and preparing for the challenges of securing a faculty position.
- Opportunities to Become Faculty – Engage in discussions about potential pathways to faculty roles, including mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities.
This session aims to provide graduate students with valuable insights and feedback as they prepare for their academic careers.
Proposal Types
- Presentations: 15-20 minute segment (traditional or non-traditional, such as: audio-visual presentation, storytelling, commentary, performance, etc.) on research, best practices, or innovative approaches to advocating for faculty in the classroom (may be completed project or work in preparation).
- Papers: 5-7 page papers on research or theoretical perspectives on faculty advocacy (may be completed project or work in preparation).
- Open discussion: (30-45 minutes) A group of 2-4 individuals facilitate an open conversation among conference attendees to explore, examine, debate, or discuss faculty advocacy issues with the goal of highlighting applicable outcomes.
- Creative Videos (poetry, short film, and performing arts): 5-7 minute videos that creatively explore the theme of “The Faculty Advocate.”
***The call for proposals is malleable and adaptable. Our goal is to broaden opportunities for participants to shape the conference to their needs. Feel free to reach out to the SFHE planning committee to discuss alternate options for participation.***
Submission Guidelines
Submit your proposal of approximately 250 words detailing the idea or initiative that the individual or team is developing.
Proposals should be submitted electronically via the link below.
Proposals should include a title, abstract, and author information.
Presentations and papers should be submitted in Microsoft Word or PDF format.
The deadline is April 15 for submissions; they will be notified by May 1