College faculty are experts in their fields, and they spend years researching intriguing topics in their academic disciplines. When faculty attend conferences or workshops, these are most often in their field of research; alternatively, they may seek pedagogical training on topics like student engagement or AI use in teaching. But today’s college classroom is a highly dynamic environment influenced by diverse student needs, technological advancements, and evolving societal expectations. Faculty are no longer just content experts; they are also tasked with being mentors, facilitators, coaches, and problem-solvers.
Beyond Programs: Leadership Lessons from Ireland’s Inclusive Universities
During a recent sabbatical studying inclusive postsecondary education in Ireland, I visited four universities—University College Cork, Trinity College Dublin, Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology, and Mary Immaculate
Ashley Rodrigues
July 20, 2026
