March 28, 2024

Executive Council Representative of the Month: Sharon Laing

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.

Three Executive Council members are recognized this month. The Faculty Assembly office had an opportunity to interview one of our Executive Council Representatives. Let’s hear their story.

More stories will be coming!

 

Sharon Laing 

 

Associate Professor 

School of Nursing & HealthCare Leadership 

 

Faculty Governance Experience 

Chair, Faculty Affairs Committee (UWT) 

Executive Council Member, Faculty Assembly (UWT) 

Executive Council Member, UW Population Health Initiative (UW)  

UW, Merit Evaluation Committee (UW) 

 

1. What motivated you to serve in Faculty Governance? 

I was encouraged to become engaged by a colleague, but once here, I recognized the unique platform afforded to made a difference in the lives and well-being of faculty. I saw that it is not possible to talk about change from afar, rather, one must position oneself around the table to help inform change. 

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

Leadership — how to effectively lead with conviction and confidence.  

Intentional Compromise — it is not that prior to getting involved in faculty governance I was unwilling to compromise, but this role has created the space to be much more thoughtful and intentional when addressing the needs of the larger faculty body and yielding when required.  

Consensus building – this is a slow process, however, my current role has forced me to exercise patience so that I can draw on the energy of all members on the team. 

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

Observe, listen and study the dynamics first. Understand the culture of the body in which you are now a member. When it is time, elevate your voice, do so with confidence but exercise humility and respect for the viewpoints of others. 

4. When did you join University of Washington Tacoma? What is the best part of your Tacoma experience? Etc.  

I joined the University of Washington Tacoma in 2015 and by far the best part of my experience is my one-to-one engagement with students.