A systematic program of faculty mentoring increases productivity and reduces isolation in times of increasing economic challenges and uncertainty in higher education. In Empowering the Faculty , Luna and Cullen provide a focused overview of mentoring in higher education. The book begins with some history of mentoring in education, followed by an excellent discussion of mentoring in the private sector as the foundation for expanded mentoring programs in higher education. These chapters are followed by an examination of the theoretical underpinnings of mentoring, particularly those basic principles and practices that define successful career development and planning. In the final three chapters of Empowering the Faculty , the authors turn to very practical implementation issues.
Individual chapters explore the experiences of women and minority faculty in academe.
Luna and Cullen identify differences in experie nces and clarify the unique mentoring and career development needs of women and minorities. The final chapter discusses specific applications of mentoring, underscoring the fact that mentoring must become an institutional practice which is supported both informally and formally, through policy and resources. In recent months, faculty at the University of Arkansas have demonstrated considerable interest in the mentoring process. As the Peer Consultation Program at the Teaching and Faculty Support Center continues to evolve, Luna and Cullen's Empowering the Faculty is an excellent resource. Come by the TFSC to check out the book or explore other resources related to mentoring.