UW Tacoma Faculty Assembly

April 11, 2024

Executive Council Representative of the Month: Rupinder Jindal

EC Reps of April 2024 

The Faculty Assembly is starting this web column to celebrate the outstanding service contributions made by our faculty governance leaders and recognize their fine accomplishments with the whole campus community.  

  • The Faculty Assembly office had an opportunity to interview one of our Executive Council Representative. Let’s hear their story 

 

Rupinder Jindal  

Rupinder Jindal, Milgard School of Business

Associate Professor 

Milgard School of Business 

 

Faculty Governance Experience 

Before serving in the EC, I served in Faculty Affairs committee for two years from 2012 to 2014. 

 

1. What motivated you to serve in Faculty Governance? 

I filled in for a colleague for one quarter in 2016 when she had to be away from the office. That exposure helped me see the wide gamut of issues discussed in the Executive Council, which affect all aspects of the life of faculty on campus. Realizing the important role of this forum I volunteered for a full term of service. 

2. What valuable experiences did you gain by serving for faculty governance? 

Shared governance was new for me. Serving first in Faculty Affairs for 2 years and now in EC for 6 years has been invaluable. The most important learning for me has been that although a diversity of opinions may slow the process down but it results in a more inclusive, well-thought through, and more widely acceptable resolution of an issue. 

3. What advice would you give for Faculty interested in being a part of Faculty Governance? 

The culture of shared governance at our campus provides ample opportunities for any faculty interested in getting involved and contributing. I think it is a good idea to first match your interests and skills to the kind of issues that a forum is charged to discuss and take forward. May be attend a couple of open meetings as a guest/visitor to get a feel for the issues and the vibe of the group before volunteering. Once a member of a forum, it helps to attend meetings regularly to stay engaged and informed, have an open mind as everyone is trying to contribute to the greater good even if their opinion or approach appears different, and finally have patience for the process to take its time.