by Teresa Mastin, Ph.D.
Vice Provost and Associate Vice President for Faculty & Academic Staff Affairs

As we step deeper into our new academic year, I want to extend a warm welcome back to each of you. Whether your summer was filled with research, writing, teaching, travel, or well-earned rest, I hope it offered space for reflection and renewal.

We return to campus in a time that continues to test our resilience. Many of us are carrying the weight of personal and professional challenges—some visible, some quietly endured. These moments are real, and they shape how we engage with our work, our students, and each other. I encourage you to review the Office of the Provost’s FAQs on civil discourse and to take time to reflect on your commitment to MSU’s land-grant mission.

Even in the midst of difficulty, I remain deeply hopeful. Across our university, I see faculty and academic staff leading with compassion, curiosity, and courage. You are mentoring the next generation, advancing scholarship, and cultivating spaces for learning and growth. Your work matters—and it continues to make a difference.

This year, our theme is renewal. The newly integrated FASA team remains committed to the success of all faculty, academic staff, and academic leaders. As we continue to navigate this time of change, we will send out additional updates and information about any impacts to this community. We look forward to leveraging our collective strengths to enhance faculty and academic staff development, resources, programming, and more.

Our priorities for this year fall into and across three categories: 
1.    Strengthening Foundations
2.    Faculty and Academic Staff Career Success
3.    Leadership Development

Whether you're stepping into a new leadership role, preparing for promotion, or seeking ways to thrive in your current position, we are here, eager to walk alongside you.

Each monthly newsletter is designed to provide something for everyone and typically will include topical areas such as professional development highlights, resources, policy and process updates, reminders, and faculty and academic staff spotlights.

I encourage you to lean into community, ask for what you need, and celebrate the small wins. Let’s continue to build a university where everyone can thrive.

Thank you for your dedication, your brilliance, and your care. We’re glad you’re here.

September 2025 Newsletter