Upcoming Events & Recent Announcements for Faculty

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. 8-Week-1 Classes – Final exams/last classes: Mar 19-21. Grade rosters open: Mar 19-24.
2. Student Withdrawal period ends: Tuesday, April 1 - Last day students can drop a regular session class with a grade of "W". No classes:  Mon, Mar 31.  Academic calendars
3. Book Adoptions time!  For Summer and Fall courses listed on CUNYFirst, it is NOW time to upload book/materials information.  We are required to post this information FOR ALL CLASSES by the time students register – even if no purchases are required.  Log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty. Faculty can email adoptions@vitalsource.com for assistance with adoptions.  
4. Commencement is Weds, May 28, 3:30pm at Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn. Full-time faculty can order regalia by Mon, April 14 at: https://oakhallcg.com/pages/jjcfaculty; and (b) confirm attendance by Weds, May 21 at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbQjZvEjlWgN0IIMCcv6uaUk2nw0Vq8b_TKC2QlRT-_Dxk5g/viewform?usp=sf_link. Please refer to the Provost’s letter for additional questions. More specific details event will be shared closer to the event.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

Meeting Primary Needs for Higher Education: Increasing food, housing, and transportation costs can be devastating for our low and lower middle-income students and can disrupt their ability to engage and be fully present with their learning. Students can find information and apply for John Jay’s Emergency Funding options at the links below.

     Because hunger may be impacting more of our students than we know, it may help to remind all students in your classes that the College has a food pantry where enrolled students can get grocery items. Meal vouchers and meal plans are also available. Students must enroll in the food pantry program BEFORE they stop by for food.

     Please see the attached reference for more food support resources:

·      Emergency Funding: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/wellness-center/emergency-funding

·      Housing/Utility: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/wellness-center/emergency-funding/emergency-housing-utility-assistance

·      Medical: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/wellness-center/emergency-funding/emergency-medical-grant

·      Food Pantry: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/wellness-center/food-pantry

·      Meal Vouchers/Meal Plans: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/wellness-center/emergency-funding/emergency-food-voucher-program

·      Transportation: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/wellness-center/emergency-funding/emergency-transportation-program

     Bookmark this TLC News & Opportunities page for opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu. 

3.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events  

1. TODAY! Lloyd Sealy Library Author Series:
    Weds, Mar 19, 1:40-3pm, 2^nd floor Library classroom, Derek Tyler Attico (JJ ’18, Eng), The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko. Full schedule and RSVP links available on the library event calendar.
2. TODAY! ¡Let’s Re-Think Academia Together! Latinx and Hispanic Voices in Qualitative Methodology: Indigenization of Knowledge and Social Justice, with Giazú Enciso Dominguez, Weds, Mar 19, 1:40-2:50pm, 1.105NB.  (See flier)
3. TODAY! OAR Book Talk: Sixty Miles Upriver: Gentrification and Race in a Small American City by Richard E. Ocejo (SOC), with discussant Dr. Brandi T. Summers. Weds, Mar 19, 4:30-6:00pm, Riverview Room (9.64NB). RSVP here.
4. TODAY! Anya & Andrew Shiva Gallery exhibit: Honey: Paulo Nazareth. Paulo Nazareth, Diane Lima & Claudia Calirman (curator) in conversation, Weds, Mar 19, 5-6:30pm, L.61NB. Opening reception, 6:30-9pm in the Shiva Gallery (on view until May 16)
5. Professional Development Series on Generative AI: Bridging Vision and Action: Setting CUNY’s Academic AI Strategy for Transformative Impact, Fri, Mar 21, 11am-noon, virtual. With Ina Wanca Chief Academic AI Officer, CUNY. See flier.  Register HERE.
6. Invitation: Update on our ongoing 2025-2030 strategic planning process, Thurs Mar 27, 1:40-2:50pm, L.63 or Zoom (ID: 893 8708 7501; Passcode: 250622). Hear about work that has been completed so far, opportunities to provide input, upcoming important dates, and recent accomplishments associated with our 2020-2025 strategic plan. Questions? Contact Christopher Shults at cshults@jjay.cuny.edu.
7. The University Faculty Senate Academic Freedom Committee is offering a workshop on Academic Freedom, Fri, Mar 28, 2-3 p.m. Topics will include: what Academic Freedom is, its history, how it plays out at CUNY and how to protect it. There will be a 25-minute presentation followed by Q&A. Register in advance to join: https://bmcc-cuny.zoom.us/meeting/register/98VtZLY0QYm11NlpzY_XBw. Questions to Prof. Hollis Glaser (HGlaser@bmcc.cuny.edu) or Prof. Beth Evans (Bevans@brooklyn.cuny.edu), Co-Chairs, UFS Academic Freedom Committee.
8. Registration for the 2025 CUNY Teaching & Learning Conference on April 3 (virtual) and April 4 (in person at the Graduate Center) is open. Please see the Website for more information and for Registration. Email questions to CUNYTLConference@cuny.edu.

4.  Faculty Conversation – Open Forum  

Invitation:  Open Forum on Faculty Concerns.  Higher Education is experiencing disruption like never before.  Some concerns focus on the impact on our students, classrooms and teaching; some focus on protections for academic freedom; others are on our budgets; and some might be experiencing disruption in their research and/or funding.  Please join faculty colleagues and Interim Dean Angela Crossman, who will be joined by Provost Pease and Deans Deans Anthony Carpi and Kinya Chandler for an initial Open Forum to share concerns and discuss issues impacting the work of faculty in this evolving landscape.  All are welcome.  In person only.  Thursday, April 3, 1:40-2:50pm, L2.85 NB classroom.

     Reminder:  All faculty (and our families) can access an array of personal supports with free services through the Employee Assistance Program: CCA@YourService. Call 1-800-833-8707, go to www.myccaonline.com, or download the CCA@YourService App. Code: CUNY. 

5.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team) 

Advance registration not required, but please use your John Jay Zoom account for security (for help with zoom, contact DOIT Help Desk at helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu or 212.238.8200).

     Today! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Open Q&A, Weds, Mar 19, 2pm-3pm. Meeting ID: 827 7117 7780; Passcode: 779008. 

     Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

6.  Faculty Awards, Funding and Opportunities  

1. Call for Proposals!  Grants up to $10,000 to support research by full-time faculty and doctoral students in the US on questions related to social mobility and higher education in the US. Deadline to apply is Mon, Mar 24, 2025. Apply HERE.
2. Call for Applications!  CUNY Faculty Leadership & Innovation Fellows Program aims to grow the pipeline of faculty prepared to thrive in academic leadership. Fellows to focus on leadership and innovation at CUNY central. Apply here by 11:59pm, Mon, April 7. See: https://www.cuny.edu/academics/faculty-affairs/faculty-fellows/2025-2026/
3. Call for Applications!  CUNY Office of Academic Affairs seeks a Transfer Faculty Fellow to support CUNY’s Transfer Initiative, “ONE CUNY”. The goal is to create a more seamless transfer process across CUNY. The Fellowship program is designed to enhance faculty engagement in student success initiatives and develop a pipeline of faculty leaders for future academic executive roles in CUNY.  See HERE for more details about this and other Fellowships. Apply HERE by 11:59pm, Mon, April 7.
4. Call for Applications! The Office of Student Research & Creativity gives 3-4 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards to recognize faculty providing exceptional mentoring of students in scholarly research or creative work. Application deadline: April 15th. Awards: Junior Mentor Award, Senior Mentor Award and Lifetime Mentor Achievement Award. See HERE for more information about how to apply.

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. Full-time faculty – Personnel deadlines:  March 15:  Deadline to notify Provost Pease of intent to apply for (early) tenure and/or promotion in the current year.  Include your CV.  Copy Faculty Services Director Kyeanna Bailey (kbailey@jjay.cuny.edu) and dept chair.
2. 8-Week-1 Classes – Student evaluation period ends Tues, Mar 18, 11:59pm. Final exams/last classes: Mar 19-21. Grade rosters open: Mar 19-24.
3. Student Withdrawal period ends: Tuesday, April 1 - Last day students can drop a regular session class with a grade of "W". No classes:  Mon, Mar 31.  Academic calendars

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

Self-reflection can build capacity and community: At mid-term, self-reflection can help students connect their wins, challenges, and goals to successful planning and action, individually and with their peers.

Here are 3 reflective strategies you could try to support student success:

• Self-reflection. After an assignment or exam, invite your students to reflect through “exam wrappers” or short writing activities. Prompt them to write about their study strategies, performance, and plans for next time.
• Study habits. Ask your students to describe where, when, and how they study and what works best – and what they might change (e.g., using the library or silencing device notifications).
• Peer sharing.  Encourage your students to share effective study strategies with each other (e.g., in a class or small group discussion or discussion board).

     Looking for examples? Join next week’s lesson planning workshop: Make the Most of your 75 Minutes! with Tomasita Ortiz (Eng; Vertical Writing Program), Tues, Mar 18, 1:40-2:55pm, 335HH. RSVP by Mon, Mar 17 at https://forms.gle/qUaWb7iJGBmCeVg28 (see flier)

     Bookmark this TLC News & Opportunities page for opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu. 

3.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events  

1. Food for Thought lunch, Thurs, Mar 13, 1:30-2:45pm, Faculty/Staff Dining Room (2^nd floor NB). Join for lunch with colleagues, hosted by Public Management. Speakers: Maria D’Agostino, Melissa McShea, Jason Rivera, Denise Thompson & Shilpa Viswanath.  Lunch is on us. RSVP here today.
2. Invitation:  For the 2025-2030 strategic planning process, please assist the Strategic Planning Subcommittee to develop our Institutional Vision Statement. Share thoughts, insights and imaginings about College’s future, Thurs, Mar 13, 1:40-2:50pm, L.61.  Questions to Christopher Shults at cshults@jjay.cuny.edu.
3. Lloyd Sealy Library Author Series:  Weds, Mar 19, 1:40-3pm, 2^nd floor Library classroom, Derek Tyler Attico (JJ ’18, Eng), The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko. Full schedule and RSVP links available on the library event calendar.
4. ¡Let’s Re-Think Academia Together! Latinx and Hispanic Voices in Qualitative Methodology: Indigenization of Knowledge and Social Justice, with Giazú Enciso Dominguez, Weds, Mar 19, 1:40-2:50pm, 1.105NB.  
5. OAR Book Talk: Sixty Miles Upriver: Gentrification and Race in a Small American City by Richard E. Ocejo (SOC), with discussant Dr. Brandi T. Summers (Columbia University). Weds, Mar 19, 4:30-6:00pm, Riverview Room (9.64NB). RSVP here.
6. Anya and Andrew Shiva Gallery exhibit: Honey: Paulo Nazareth. Paulo Nazareth, Diane Lima & Claudia Calirman (curator) in conversation, Weds, Mar 19, 5-6:30pm, L.61NB. Opening reception, 6:30-9pm in the Shiva Gallery (on view until May 16)
7. Professional Development Series on Generative AI: Bridging Vision and Action: Setting CUNY’s Academic AI Strategy for Transformative Impact, Fri, Mar 21, 11am-noon, virtual. Ina Wanca Chief Academic AI Officer, CUNY. See flier.  Register HERE.

4.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. Showcasing Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship at BMCC. Student Mental Health: A Post-Pandemic Perspective, Thurs, Mar 13, 1:00-2:15 pm, in person (CETLS, S510D) and Zoom. Click title for additional resources and to RSVP (in person) or Register (Zoom).
2. Call for Applications! Spring 2025 Writing Assignment Seminar. Funded seminar to support development of writing assignments for Gen Ed and Major Gateway courses for Fall 25. Groups of 3-4 faculty encouraged to develop and teach an assignment across multiple sections of same course. Deadline: Fri, Mar 14. To apply, complete this form.  
3. Credit for Prior Learning Professional Development: Showcase: Multi-Campus CPL Evaluation, Fri, Mar 14, 10-11am, virtual. Faculty experiences working on multi-campus evaluation committees to recommend CPL for industry credentials. Flyer. Register Here
4. Registration for the 2025 CUNY Teaching & Learning Conference on April 3 (virtual) and April 4 (in person at the Graduate Center) is open. Please see the Website for more information and for Registration. Email questions to CUNYTLConference@cuny.edu.

5.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team)  

Advance registration not required, but please use your John Jay Zoom account for security (for help with zoom, contact DOIT Help Desk at helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu or 212.238.8200).

Today! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Using Groups in Brightspace, Weds, Mar 12, 2pm-3pm. Meeting ID: 868 3506 8032; Passcode: 025825. 

     Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

6.  Faculty Awards, Funding and Opportunities  

1. Call for Proposals!  Grants up to $10,000 to support research by full-time faculty and doctoral students in the US on questions related to social mobility and higher education in the US. Deadline to apply is Mon, Mar 24, 2025. Apply HERE.
2. Call for Applications!  CUNY Faculty Leadership and Innovation Fellows Program aims to increase the pipeline of faculty prepared to thrive in academic leadership. Offers the opportunity to explore this path and expand academic leadership and administrative skills via an immersive experience. Gain experience with daily demands, expectations and responsibilities of executive leadership.  Deadline: Mon, Apr 7, 11:59pm.  
        8-9 fellows will focus on leadership and innovation in key units in CUNY’s central administration. Learn about opportunities in academic administration, elements of effective leadership, and innovative professional practices that undergird administrative accomplishments and professional fulfillment. Apply here by 11:59pm, Mon, April 7. See: https://www.cuny.edu/academics/faculty-affairs/faculty-fellows/2025-2026/
3. Call for Applications! The Office of Student Research & Creativity gives 3-4 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards to recognize faculty providing exceptional mentoring of students in scholarly research or creative work. Application deadline: April 15th. Awards: Junior Mentor Award, Senior Mentor Award and Lifetime Mentor Achievement Award. See HERE for more info about how to apply.

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. Classes follow Weds schedule on Thurs, Mar 6. (Conversion days info.) Calendars
2. Early Check-In Feedback. Deadline today for faculty feedback on students in undergrad classes. Goal is to provide additional support for students who may need it before the April 1 add/drop deadline.  Early Check-In Reports: Spring 2025 Timeline. Faculty can submit additional EAB Navigate Alerts when grades are available.
3. Full-time faculty – Upcoming personnel deadlines:
   3. March 15: Deadline to notify the Provost of intent to apply for (early) tenure and/or promotion in the current year (fall votes) in writing (email acceptable). Copy Faculty Services Director Kyeanna Bailey (kbailey@jjay.cuny.edu) and your dept chair.
4. Using Outlook App on cell phones – JJ emails sent using the ‘outlook’ app on cell phones do not seem to reliably deliver emails with attachments. Even after an email is sent, it sometimes does not show evidence of the sending. When sending email with an attachment from your JJ email address using outlook, including to John Jay, it is wise to use a computer rather than the cell phone app.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC

Community builds capacity:  Belonging, resilience and anti-loneliness are part of ongoing conversations about student success. Each is developed through class community, which can also lead to improved academic performance and increased skills transfer over time. Cohort programs (e.g., ACE, ¡Adelante!, PRISM, Apple Corps, MBK) build on these findings.

     Here are some ideas for building community among students across:

• Learning names.  Invite students to learn as many names as possible through memory games and repeating each other’s names when they engage in discussions.
• Finding affinities.  Help students find affinities by asking them to identify shared interests, career plans, courses, strengths and challenges with activities such as polls, raised hands, Mentimeter, or moving to different areas of the room to form groups.
• Study support groups. Prime students to share class info and resources by working with them to create study groups. Set guidelines and boundaries for engagement.
• Shared activities.  Share course-related events information and encourage students to participate for extra credit. Or attend as a class. To fund such class activities, apply to the Faculty/Staff Student Engagement Program (e.g., field trip to a local museum or event; lunch at a local restaurant). Next Deadline: Fri, Mar 7 (for Apr-May 2025 events). Notifications 3-5 business days after submit. New applicants receive priority. Apply at www.jjay.cuny.edu/fsse. Questions to fse@jjay.cuny.edu.

Bookmark this TLC News & Opportunities page for opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.  

3.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events  

1. Food for Thought lunch, Thurs, Mar 13, 1:30-2:45pm, Faculty/Staff Dining Room (2^nd floor NB). Join for lunch with colleagues, hosted by Public Management. Speakers: Melissa McShea, Jason Rivera, Denise Thompson & Shilpa Viswanath.  Lunch is on us. RSVP here by Tues, Mar 11.  (See flier below)
2. Lloyd Sealy Library Author Series:
    Weds, Mar 19, 1:40-3pm, 2^nd floor Library classroom, Derek Tyler Attico (JJ ’18, Eng), The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko. Full schedule and RSVP links available on the library event calendar.
3. OAR Book Talk: Sixty Miles Upriver: Gentrification and Race in a Small American City by Richard E. Ocejo (SOC), with discussant Dr. Brandi T. Summers (Columbia University). Weds, Mar 19, 4:30-6:00pm, Riverview Room (9.64NB). RSVP here.
4. Anya and Andrew Shiva Gallery exhibit: Honey: Paulo Nazareth. Paulo Nazareth, Diane Lima & Claudia Calirman (curator) in conversation, Weds, Mar 19, 5-6:30pm, L.61NB. Opening reception, 6:30-9pm in the Shiva Gallery (on view until May 16; see flier)

4.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. Hunter ACERT Lunchtime Seminars are virtual sessions on teaching and learning by faculty for faculty. Guiding growth through mentoring and support, Thurs, Mar 6, 12-1pm. Click the title to learn more and register. Questions: acert@hunter.cuny.edu.
2. CUNY Faculty Webinar Series for Online Instruction: Spark Discussions, Ignite Learning: Mastering Virtual Discussions, Thurs, Mar 6, 3:00pm. A guide to cultivating dynamic virtual discussions in online courses. REGISTER. For all Spring 2025 webinars REGISTER HERE. Questions to Judith Cahn: Judith.Cahn@cuny.edu
3. CITA Book Club: A Pedagogy of Kindness, Fri, Mar 7, 11am-noon, virtual. Leads Michelle Fraboni & Joshua Barnes (QC). Explore and discuss Catherine J. Denial’s book. Attendees can participate in a raffle for a copy of Denial's book. Details in the flyer.  Register Here.
4. Call for Applications! Spring 2025 Writing Assignment Seminar. This funded seminar will support faculty development of writing assignments for Gen Ed and Major Gateway courses for use in fall 25. We encourage groups of 3-4 JJ faculty to develop and teach a writing assignment across multiple sections of the same Gen Ed or major gateway course. Deadline: Fri, Mar 14. To apply, complete this form.  See attachment.
5. Credit for Prior Learning Professional Development: Faculty are invited to participate in a 2-part professional development workshop by the Council on Adult and Experiential Learning. Deadline to apply: Fri, Mar 7. Sessions: 9am-1pm, Fri, Mar 21 & Fri, Mar 28, virtual. See eligibility criteria and apply via this online form.
6. Showcasing Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship at BMCC. Student Mental Health: A Post-Pandemic Perspective, Thurs, Mar 13, 1:00-2:15 pm, in person (CETLS, S510D) and Zoom. Michael McGee (Health Studies). Click title above for additional resources and to RSVP (in person) or Register (Zoom).
7. Credit for Prior Learning Professional Development Series: Showcase: Multi-Campus CPL Evaluation, Fri, Mar 14, 10-11am, virtual. Faculty will share their experiences working on multi-campus evaluation committees to recommend CPL for industry credentials and other learning experiences. Additional details in the flyer.  Register Here.

5.  Faculty Awards, Funding and Opportunities  

1. Deadline extended to Fri, Mar 7 (see attachment):  OAR full-time faculty awards: The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. This linked document details eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Questions to oar@jjay.cuny.edu. Deadline: Fri, March 7.  
2. Call for Applications!  The Faculty Leadership and Innovation Fellows Program aims to increase the pipeline of faculty who are prepared to thrive in academic leadership roles at CUNY. The program offers faculty the opportunity to explore this path and expand their academic leadership and administrative skills through an immersive experience. Faculty also gain experience with the daily demands, expectations, and responsibilities of executive leadership positions in the CUNY system.  Deadline: Mon, Apr 7, 11:59pm.
             CUNY’s Office of Academic Affairs seeks 8-9 fellows for 2025-26 to focus on leadership and innovation. Fellows will be located in key units in CUNY’s central administration and learn about opportunities in academic administration, elements of effective leadership, and innovative professional practices that undergird administrative accomplishments and support professional fulfillment. Applications must be submitted here by 11:59pm on April 7, 2025. The application and more details can be found at https://www.cuny.edu/academics/faculty-affairs/faculty-fellows/2025-2026/
3. Call for Proposals! For grants up to $10,000 to support research by full-time faculty and doctoral students in the US on questions related to social mobility and higher education in the US. Deadline to apply is Mon, Mar 24, 2025. Apply HERE.
4. Call for Applications! The Office of Student Research & Creativity gives 3-4 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards to recognize faculty providing exceptional mentoring of students in scholarly research or creative work. Application deadline: April 15th. Awards: Junior Mentor Award, Senior Mentor Award and Lifetime Mentor Achievement Award. See HERE for more information about how to apply.

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. Classes follow Weds schedule on Thurs, Mar 6. (Conversion days info.) Calendars
2. On Weds, Feb 19, Akademos by Vitalsource sent their Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) survey to faculty. CSAT surveys help them measure satisfaction with their services, highlight what’s working well, and identify areas for improvement. Please complete the survey ASAP, sharing your feedback to help them enhance their support and service.
3. Early Check-In Feedback. For those who received requests, faculty feedback on students in undergraduate classes is due before March 5. The goal is to identify students who may need additional support and connect them with that support before the April 1 add/drop deadline.  Early Check-In Reports: Spring 2025 Timeline. Later in the semester, you can submit additional EAB Navigate Alerts when grades are available.
4. Full-time faculty – Upcoming personnel deadlines:
   4. March 1:  Fellowship leave applications for Spring 2026 due to dept chairs. Form.
   5. March 15: Deadline to notify Provost of intent to apply for (early) tenure and/or promotion in the current year (fall votes) in writing (email acceptable). Copy Faculty Services Director Kyeanna Bailey (kbailey@jjay.cuny.edu) and your dept chair.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC 

Supporting student health:  Our world is changing rapidly outside the college and now, in week 5, students may have multiple sources of anxiety compounding the tension that comes with academic deadlines, tests, and assignments.

     How can we encourage and model healthy student behaviors in this context? One idea is to show our interest in students’ wellbeing by taking a “temperature check” at the beginning of class. We can also model healthy behaviors and strategies for focusing attention and sustaining study routines–perhaps include setting timelines for assignments and setting achievable goals in class activities. Another idea is to share data with students on the importance of sleep, exercise and healthy eating for their academic success. We can also remind them of College resources available to them, including academic resources and supports, our food pantry, emergency funding, physical and mental health services (see more HERE). Please consider referring students to the Counseling Center when serious concerns arise (you observe sudden absenteeism, changes in hygiene habits, inappropriate behavior or outbursts in class or online) or notify the Behavioral Intervention Team.

     We recommend the TLC’s Mental Health & Teaching page for resources on student mental health and learning. Also, bookmark this TLC News & Opportunities page for opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.

3.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events  

1. Today! The JJ Office for the Advancement of Research will host an open forum for faculty to discuss/ask questions about the current federal grant landscape and impacts on funded projects and/or funding opportunities. Weds, Feb 26, noon, Virtual Open Forum.  Meeting ID: 868 9814 8130; Passcode: 670791.
2. Tonight! Journal Article Contracts: Understanding and Retaining Your Rights as an Author. Weds, Feb 26, 6:30-7:30pm, Zoom (registration link) OR Fri, Feb 28, 11am-noon, Zoom (registration link).  When you publish a journal article, you sign a copyright agreement. Do you know what you’re agreeing to when you sign it? How can you find out a journal’s policy? Can you negotiate a better contract? Come learn how to preserve your rights to reproduce, distribute, and display the work you create.
3. Seminar: The Fourteenth Amendment: A History of Birthright Citizenship and Current Challenges, Thurs, Feb 27, 3:05-4:20pm in 630HH. Presenters: Dean Ringel and Jodi Ziesemer. Co-sponsors: History and Humanities & Justice.
4. Leaders of Justice: Celebrating Black History Month. President Mason in conversation with The Honorable Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Thurs, Feb 27, 4:30pm. Zoom registration www.jjay.cuny.edu/ASC. Questions to externalaffairs@jjay.cuny.edu. See flier below.
5. Proposal Writing Workshop for a CUNY Book Completion Award. In person Thurs, Feb 27, 6-7:30pm, CUNY Graduate Center. RSVP at https://forms.office.com/r/c31gTisMM6 by Feb 24, 5pm. Questions to Sarah Hoiland, shoiland@gc.cuny.edu.
6. 35^thMalcom/King Awards Breakfast, Fri, Feb 28, 8:45am, 4^th Floor Gym, Haaren Hall.  See flier below.  To register and/or donate: https://jjay.cc/malcolm_king_25
7. Lloyd Sealy Library Author Series:
    Tues, Mar 4, 1:40-3pm, 2^nd floor Library classroom, Michelle Holder (Eco), co-author of forthcoming Political economy of racism: The persistence of anti-blackness in the US. RSVP: https://MichelleHolder.eventbrite.com

4.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. Hunter ACERT Lunchtime Seminars are 1-hour virtual sessions on teaching and learning by faculty for faculty. Guiding growth through mentoring and support, Thurs, Mar 6, 12-1pm. Click the title to learn more and register. Questions: acert@hunter.cuny.edu.
2. Credit for Prior Learning Professional Development Series: Faculty across CUNY are invited to participate in a 2-part professional development workshop by the Council on Adult and Experiential Learning. Sessions: 9am-1pm, Fri, Mar 21 & Fri, Mar 28, virtual. See eligibility criteria and apply via this online form by the Deadline: Friday, March 7.
3. Registration for the 2025 CUNY Teaching & Learning Conference on April 3 (virtual) and April 4 (in person at the Graduate Center) is open. Please see the Website for more information and for Registration. Email questions to CUNYTLConference@cuny.edu.

5.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team)  

Advance registration not required, but please use your John Jay Zoom account for security (for help with zoom, contact DOIT Help Desk at helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu or 212.238.8200).

Today! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Advanced Quiz Topics, Weds, Feb 26, 2pm-3pm. ID: 835 5108 3186; Passcode: 348288. 

Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

6.  Faculty Awards and Funding 

1. Deadline extended to Fri, Mar 7 (see attachment):  OAR full-time faculty awards: The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. This linked document details eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Questions to oar@jjay.cuny.edu. Deadline: Fri, March 7.  
2. Call for Applications! The Office of Student Research & Creativity gives 3-4 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards to recognize faculty providing exceptional mentoring of students in scholarly research or creative work. Application deadline: April 15th. Awards: Junior Mentor Award, Senior Mentor Award and Lifetime Mentor Achievement Award. Faculty self-nominate and submit materials, but students and colleagues should encourage role models and peers to apply. See HERE for more info.
3. Call for Proposals! For grants up to $10,000 to support research by full-time faculty and doctoral students in the US on questions related to social mobility and higher education in the US. The program is organized by the Social Mobility Lab at the Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership, City College. The Lab aims to advance understanding of how higher education expands and accelerates opportunities for students and the families and communities from which they come. See attached PDF for program details, including how to apply. Deadline to apply is Mon, Mar 24, 2025.  

7.  CUNY Opportunity to Share with Students  

The NY Jobs CEO Council is hosting a five-part generative AI workshop series for students of all backgrounds this semester at BMCC. Students will have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals, engage with generative AI technologies through hands-on activities, and earn a digital badge. The program is free for students and breakfast will be provided. Please share this learning opportunity with your students.

The Gen AI workshop series will be Fridays, 10a-12pm, March 7 - April 4 at BMCC (199 Chambers St., Room N-452). Students will:

• Learn how Gen AI works and how it may perpetuate bias
• Get hands-on with tools to understand its uses and limitations
• Build a project and present it to a panel of industry experts
• Network with industry volunteers and panelists
• Receive a digital badge of completion from the NY Jobs CEO Council

For questions, see the FAQs (https://tinyurl.com/genaifaqs) or email Aankit Patel at aankit.patel@cuny.edu. Flyers linked here: PDF and image.

1.  Important Dates/Information

     Full-time faculty – Upcoming personnel deadlines:

1. March 1:  Fellowship leave applications for Spring 2026 due to dept chairs. Form.
2. March 15: Deadline to notify the Provost of intent to apply for (early) tenure and/or promotion in the current year (fall votes) in writing (email acceptable). Copy Faculty Services Director Kyeanna Bailey (kbailey@jjay.cuny.edu) and your dept chair.

2.  Early Check-In Reports:  Spring 2025  

Early Check-In Feedback Request.  Today, February 19, faculty will receive an email from Kate Szur, Interim Assistant Dean for Student Success and Retention, through the Navigate360 platform. This message will request faculty feedback on students in undergraduate classes before March 5. The goal is to identify students who may need additional support and connect them with an advisor or staff member before the April 1 add/drop deadline.  Early Check-In Reports: Spring 2025 Timeline  

   To make providing early feedback easier this spring, we updated the EAB Navigate Progress Reports to be Early Check-In Feedback. Rather than focusing on assignment grades, this feedback will provide insight into students’ initial course performance and attendance. We recognize that grades may not yet be available, so please provide holistic feedback. Later in the semester, you can submit additional EAB Navigate Alerts when grades are available.

   In Fall 2024, faculty identified nearly 2,700 students who needed staff support through EAB Navigate Progress Reports. Your participation made a significant impact:

• Over 600 students had follow-up appointments with a success specialist or advisor.
• Students who met with a staff member had significantly higher semester GPAs and course completion rates than those who did not.
• Students with a Progress Report-related appointment had an average GPA of 2.5 compared to 2.3 for those who were not seen (t(-4.13), p < .001).
• Students also had a higher credit completion ratio (.74 versus.69, t(-3.16), p < .001).

Your participation is invaluable in ensuring student success. Thank you for your dedication and support!

3.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

Building student self-help confidence and skills:  Now in week 4, how are your students responding to assignments so far? They may be discovering what they are doing easily and what they find challenging. It may be a good time to remind them of the support resources included in your syllabi and facilitate making connections between their needs and the resources that can fill those needs. For instance, frequent, low-stakes assessments allow students to see how they are doing early on, but only if they check their grades. Perhaps require students to meet with you once during office hours to discuss grades or feedback. Or assign some or all students to visit the writing center (or appropriate center for your class) as a way to normalize this practice. Maybe offer class time for students to prepare study materials together, making connections and study progress. Remember that all faculty can raise alerts (or share kudos) in Navigate 360 (see Early Check In Reports above).

Bookmark this TLC News & Opportunities page to find more opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.

4.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events  

1. Invitation: Interested faculty members are invited to join The Write Space, an informal, virtual writing community. Commit to writing for 90 mins online every week, without interruption. Sessions Thursdays, 9:30–11am (2/27, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/24 & 5/1). Sign up here: https://forms.gle/dyHzDxr9o8nLLrJu7. Deadline: Mon, Feb 24.
2. Campus-wide Know Your Rights Session, Mon, Feb 24, 1:40-3pm, Zoom. Register here.
3. Seminar: The Fourteenth Amendment: A History of Birthright Citizenship and Current Challenges, Thurs, Feb 27, 3:05-4:20pm in 630HH. Presenters: Dean Ringel (History; Humanities & Justice) and Jodi Ziesemer (New York Legal Assistance Group). Co-sponsors: History and Humanities & Justice.
4. Leaders of Justice: Celebrating Black History Month. President Mason in conversation with The Honorable Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Thurs, Feb 27, 4:30pm. Zoom registration www.jjay.cuny.edu/ASC. Questions to externalaffairs@jjay.cuny.edu. See flier below.
5. Proposal Writing Workshop for a CUNY Book Completion Award. In person Thurs, Feb 27, 6-7:30pm, CUNY Graduate Center. RSVP at https://forms.office.com/r/c31gTisMM6 by Feb 24, 5pm. Questions to Sarah Hoiland, shoiland@gc.cuny.edu.
6. 35^thMalcom/King Awards Breakfast, Fri, Feb 28, 8:45am, 4^th Floor Gym, Haaren Hall.  See flier below.  To register and/or donate: https://jjay.cc/malcolm_king_25

5.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities 

1. Exploring Generative AI Visual Literacy and Creativity in Pedagogical Environments, Fri, Feb 21, 11am-noon (virtual). Leads: Michael Mandiberg (CSI) & Ximena Gallardo (LGCC).  Explore how to develop digital and visual literacy skills, given the availability of generative artificial intelligence tools capable of producing text and image-based content. Additional details in the flyer. Register here.
2. Registration for the 2025 CUNY Teaching & Learning Conference on April 3 (virtual) and April 4 (in person at the Graduate Center) is open. Please see the Website for more information and for Registration. Email questions to CUNYTLConference@cuny.edu.

6.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team) 

     Advance registration not required, but please use your John Jay Zoom account for security (for help with zoom, contact DOIT Help Desk at helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu or 212.238.8200).

Today! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Open Q & A, Weds, Feb 19, 2pm-3pm.
Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/86250000369?pwd=RbVwpUZhiz4XKLjsIZHBy208MGFAza.1 Meeting ID: 862 5000 0369;  Passcode: 104045

     Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

7.  Faculty Awards and Funding 

1. Last call!  Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Deadline - Feb 20.
   Nomination Form here. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
2. OAR full-time faculty awards: The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. The linked document details eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Questions to oar@jjay.cuny.edu. Deadline: Thurs, Feb 20.  
3. Faculty Service to Students Award. Due on or before Feb 21. Submit one-page letter with reasons faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.
4. Call for Applications! The Office of Student Research & Creativity gives 3-4 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards to recognize faculty providing exceptional mentoring of students in scholarly research or creative work. Application deadline: April 15th. Awards: Junior Mentor Award (within first 6 yrs as a mentor; $1200), Senior Mentor Award ($1500) and Lifetime Mentor Achievement Award (biennially; $2000). Faculty self-nominate and submit all materials, but students (including graduate students) and colleagues should encourage role models and peers to apply. See HERE for more info.

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. No classes:  Weds, Feb 12 & Mon, Feb 17 (college closed for both); Mon, Mar 31; Apr 12-20 (spring recess).  Classes follow Mon schedule on Tues, Feb 18; Weds schedule on Thurs, Mar 6. (Read about conversion days here.) Academic calendars
2. Verification of enrollment rosters for spring close Fri, Feb 14. See the Faculty Handbook for more about VOE: Attendance Rosters: Verification of Enrollment. 
3. Full-time faculty – Upcoming personnel deadlines:
    - March 1:  Fellowship leave applications for Spring 2026 due to dept chairs. Form.
    - March 15: Deadline to notify the Provost of intent to apply for (early) tenure and/or promotion in the current year (fall votes) in writing (email acceptable). Copy Faculty Services Director Kyeanna Bailey (kbailey@jjay.cuny.edu) and your dept chair.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

Peer teaching observations begin soon. Whether we are being observed or conducting an observation, peer observations offer invaluable opportunities to discuss pedagogy with a colleague – and to get constructive feedback on our teaching.  Observations are also a key component of the personnel process for all teaching faculty.

When we think of peer observations as part of our professional development, we can ease anxieties about how our teaching is perceived in favor of strengthening our shared commitments to student learning and adjusting our sense of where we are succeeding and where we can continue to grow.

We recommend these resources for observers and those being observed (and dept chairs):

• Article: They’re watching you teach: How to put your best foot forward in a classroom observation
• Teach@CUNY Handbook 5.0:  CUNY Graduate Center Handbook
• Brief suggestions (one page) to Strengthen Peer Feedback
• Hostos Community College Faculty Observation Handbook

Bookmark this TLC News & Opportunities page to find more opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.

3.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events

1. Invitation: All interested faculty members are invited to join The Write Space – an informal, virtual writing community. Commit to writing for 90 minutes online every week, without interruptions! Initial session to include virtual introductions. Subsequent writing sessions will end with 5 to 10 minutes to share progress. The 8 sessions will be Thursdays, 9:30am – 11am (2/27, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/24 & 5/1). Sign up here: https://forms.gle/dyHzDxr9o8nLLrJu7. Deadline: Mon, Feb 24.  See flier.
2. Campus-wide Know Your Rights Session, Mon, Feb 24, 1:40-3pm, Zoom. See flier below. Register here.
3. Seminar: The Fourteenth Amendment: A History of Birthright Citizenship and Current Challenges, Thurs, Feb 27, 3:05-4:20pm in 630HH. Presenters: Dean Ringel (History; Humanities & Justice) and Jodi Ziesemer (New York Legal Assistance Group). Co-sponsors: History and Humanities & Justice.

4.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities 

1. Exploring Generative AI Visual Literacy and Creativity in Pedagogical Environments, Fri, Feb 21, 11am-noon (virtual). Leads: Michael Mandiberg (CSI) & Ximena Gallardo (LGCC).  Explore how to develop digital literacy and visual literacy skills (ours and our students’) in light of the availability of generative artificial intelligence tools capable of producing text and image-based content. Additional details in the flyer. Register here.
2. Registration for the 2025 CUNY Teaching & Learning Conference on April 3 (virtual) and April 4 (in person at the Graduate Center) is open. Please see the Website for more information and for Registration. Email questions to CUNYTLConference@cuny.edu.

5.  Faculty Awards and Funding 

1. Last call!  Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Deadline - Feb 15.
   Nomination Form here. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
2. Funding for full-time faculty professional development (e.g., NCFDD Faculty Success Program (FSP); apply by Feb 15 for summer 2025 FSP). Application: Faculty Opportunity Fund. Questions to apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  
3. OAR full-time faculty awards: The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. The linked document details eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Questions to oar@jjay.cuny.edu. Deadline: Thurs, Feb 20.  
4. Faculty Service to Students Award. Due on or before Feb 21. Submit one-page letter with reasons faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.
5. Call for Applications! Each year, the Office of Student Research & Creativity awards 3 to 4 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards to recognize faculty providing exceptional mentoring of students in scholarly research or creative work. Application deadline: April 15th. Awards are: Junior Mentor Award (within first 6 years as a mentor; $1200), Senior Mentor Award ($1500) and Lifetime Mentor Achievement Award (biennially; $2000). Faculty formally self-nominate and submit all materials, but students (including graduate students) and colleagues should encourage role models and peers to apply. For more info, go to jjay.cuny.edu/faculty-mentor-award.

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. Adjunct Pay Dates: The first adjunct pay date for Spring is Feb 6. Please check to ensure accurate payment according to your course load to avoid over- or underpayment. Contact your Chair if you are not paid. (Note: Late hires will experience a pay delay.)
2. No classes:  Weds, Feb 12 & Mon, Feb 17 (college closed for both); Mon, Mar 31; Apr 12-20 (spring recess).  Classes follow Mon schedule on Tues, Feb 18; Weds schedule on Thurs, Mar 6. (Read about conversion days here.) Academic calendars
3. Verification of enrollment rosters are open until the deadlines below:
   Graduate 8-week-1 classes: close Thurs, Feb 6. Regular session: close Fri, Feb 14.

Federal regulations require the College to document that students have begun course attendance to qualify for Title IV financial aid. Hence, faculty are asked to verify which students registered in each course are attending or participating and to identify which have never attended any class and/or have never participated in an academically related activity since the beginning of the semester (includes independent study, research, thesis, dissertation). See the Faculty Handbook (or registrar memo) for more about VOE: Attendance Rosters: Verification of Enrollment. 

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

     Last week, we noted that presence differs from engagement. Both are essential to learning and impact student success individually and collectively. Challenges this winter (e.g., spikes in contagious illnesses, etc.) may impact student absences. The College provides guidance on student attendance in the Faculty Handbook (under College Bulletins: Attendance Policy). Faculty have discretion in setting attendance policies for their courses and those should be clearly stated on syllabi, including clear makeup policies for missed time or work.

     Given that attendance supports student engagement (in person or online), are there additional ways to encourage and assess student engagement? Ideas include short informal writing activities, low stakes quizzes to assess student understanding of content, and small group conversations in which students discuss assignment instructions to predict the time, skills, and resources they will need to complete the work.

Please keep in mind that if a student begins to struggle (e.g., frequently absent, poor performance), we have excellent support resources. Please refer such students to the Counseling Center, Wellness Center and/or Office of Accessibility Services. Links:

• Academic supports: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/academics/academic-resources-services.
• Academic Advisement Center: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/academics/academic-resources-services/academic-advisement-center
• Women’s Center for Gender Justice:  https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/womens-center-gender-justice
• LGBTQ+ Resource Center:  https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/lgbtq-resource-center
• Immigrant Student Success Center: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/immigrant-student-success-center
• Housing: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/admissions/housing-resources
• Military & Veteran services: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/military-veteran-services

    Bookmark this TLC News & Opportunities page to find more opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.

3.  Important Updates  

1. The Brightspace Attendance tool was disabled in Brightspace in December 2024 by the CUNY LMS Transition Team as advised by the University Office of Enrollment Management. This was not a John Jay decision. The decision was based on CUNY’s status as a “non-attendance-taking institution” with the US Department of Education (i.e., we are not required to take attendance in every class and report the results to the government regularly). We are required to establish commencement of attendance through the VOE process, but do not collect central attendance information otherwise. Faculty may maintain their own attendance roll books, with class/academic activity.
2. As per yesterday’s email to the campus, changes in the U.S. Department of Education rules mean that CUNY’s 2020 Policy on Sexual Misconduct replaces the 2024 Policy on Sex-Based Misconduct. Key changes for faculty:

• Only faculty leading or supervising students on off-campus trips are “responsible employees” with a duty to inform the Title IX Coordinator when they learn of conduct that may constitute sexual misconduct (no longer all faculty).
• Faculty are no longer required to provide contact information of the Title IX Coordinator when informed that a student is pregnant or to inform the student that the Title IX Coordinator can provide assistive measures. However, a student who needs support and/or accommodations pertaining to a pregnancy-related condition should contact OAS at accessibilityservices@jjay.cuny.edu.
• Any person wishing to submit a report of sexual misconduct should: complete the Sexual Misconduct Allegation Form and email it to CDO@jjay.cuny.edu.  You may also visit the Title IX Office located at 623HH or call 212-887-6220.

4.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events  

1. Campus-wide Know Your Rights Sessions, Fri, Feb 7 & Mon, Feb 24, 1:40-3pm, Zoom. See flier below. Register here.
2. College Faculty/Staff Meeting, Mon, Feb 10, 1:40-2:55pm, L.61.
3. Workshop: Human Rights Law, Anti-Black Racism and Other Forms of Discrimination Based on Race and Color, Tues, Feb 11, 10am-12pm, virtual. NYC Commission on Human Rights. Register here (see flier) or email Henry Cruz, hecruz@jjay.cuny.edu.
4. Visit the Pop-Up Library, Tues, Feb 11, 1:40-2:55pm, New Building Atrium. Snacks and books and librarians will be there – all free! See in the Library calendar (flier below).
5. Town Hall, Tues, Feb 11, 1:40-2:55pm, L.61NB (Zoom: ID 829 1018 3891; code 693739)

5.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. CUNY Faculty Webinar Series for Online Instruction:  Innovative Alternatives to Traditional Assessments in STEM Courses, Weds, Feb 5, 3pm (virtual). Register Here.
2. Teaching Matters Series: Effective Survey Design, Crafting Questions to Obtain Better Insights, Fri, Feb 7, 11am-noon (virtual). Leads: Karyna Pryiomka (Lehman) & Rachel Hutchins (CUNY). Build skills to create effective surveys to foster student engagement. Workshop flyer. Register Here.  

6.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team)  

Advance registration not required, but please use your John Jay Zoom account for security (for help with zoom, contact DOIT Help Desk at helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu or 212.238.8200).

TODAY!  DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Quizzes, Weds, Feb 5, 2pm-3pm.  

DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Open Q & A, Weds, Feb 19, 2pm-3pm.
Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/86250000369?pwd=RbVwpUZhiz4XKLjsIZHBy208MGFAza.1 Meeting ID: 862 5000 0369;  Passcode: 104045

DOES LMS Brightspace Drop-In Labs: Thurs, Feb 6, 1:40pm-2:55 pm, L2.72.05 NB

Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

7.  Faculty Awards and Funding  

1. Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Deadline - Feb 15.
   Nomination Form here. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
2. OAR full-time faculty awards: The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. The linked document details eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Questions to oar@jjay.cuny.edu. Deadline: Thurs, Feb 20.  
3. Faculty Service to Students Award. Due on or before Feb 21. Submit one-page letter with reasons faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.
4. Funding for full-time faculty professional development (e.g., NCFDD Faculty Success Program (FSP); apply by Feb 15 for summer 2025 FSP). Application: Faculty Opportunity Fund.  Questions to apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  

8.  Faculty Health & Wellness  

Faculty members (and our families) can access free services through the Employee Assistance Program: CCA@YourService. Call 1-800-833-8707, go to www.myccaonline.com, or download the CCA@YourService App. Code: CUNY. 

      For mental health, access 3 free counseling sessions for each issue of concern. CCA is available to speak with any employee or family member that has direct or related stress/anxiety/worry/fear about immigration matters at 1-800-833-8707. For deportation concerns or immigration legal needs, CCA can refer the employee/family member to their CCA EAP legal benefit, a 30-minute, no-cost consultation with an attorney. If they wish to continue with legal services, there is a 25% discount off the hourly rate. 

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. Adjunct Pay Dates: The first adjunct pay date for Spring is Feb 6 (then every 2 weeks). Please make sure you see accurate payment according to your course load to avoid over- or underpayment. Contact your Department Chair if you are not paid.  (Note: Faculty hired close to the start of the semester will likely experience a pay delay.)
2. No classes:  Weds, Feb 12 & Mon, Feb 17 (college closed for both); Mon, Mar 31; Apr 12-20 (spring recess).  Classes follow Mon schedule on Tues, Feb 18; Weds schedule on Thurs, Mar 6. (Read about conversion days here.) Academic calendars
3. Verification of enrollment rosters will be open on the dates below.
    Graduate 8-week-1 classes: Sat, Feb 1 – Thurs, Feb 6
    Regular session: Sat, Feb 1 – Fri, Feb 14.

Faculty must verify which registered students are attending or participating and which have never attended any class and/or have not participated in an academically related activity since the start of the semester (includes independent study, research, thesis, dissertation). VOE rosters are in the faculty center view of CUNYfirst. Reporting has important financial aid implications so it is important to please submit by the deadline.

Academically related activities include, but are not limited to: physically attending class; submitting an assignment; taking an exam, tutorial or computer-assisted instruction; attending an assigned study group; participating in an online discussion about academic matters; and initiating contact with a faculty member to ask about the academic subject studied in the course. Logging in to an online course is not sufficient, by itself. It is suggested that you please try to contact students who have not yet participated before the VOE deadline (and before submitting) to ensure accurate reporting. See the Faculty Handbook for guidance on VOE: Attendance Rosters: Verification of Enrollment. 

     Students identified as never attending are assigned a WN grade, are removed from the roster and lose Brightspace access. If you made an error, you can request WN reversal. Reversal and reinstatement of Brightspace access could take up to 24 hours.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

Spring is here! Each semester is a new opportunity to build community with and among students. To start out on the right foot, consider generating shared class guidelines and values for class interactions. Here are some ideas for helping students understand that being present is not the same as engaged: discuss the value of attendance and engagement from the start; include things like putting phones away in class guidelines; give participation or engagement credit (including how students listen and contribute in small groups); remind online students to remove distractions; and make class interactive. If you are interested, see 15 different things that can be done in the first 5 minutes of class to keep engagement high.

Note:  Many students will experience challenges that erode their ability to fully engage. Here are important resources to share with students in your syllabi, as well as those in 3 below.

Sample language:  Students experiencing any personal, medical, financial or familial distress, which may impede their ability to fulfill the requirements of this course, are encouraged to visit the Wellness Center (L.65 NB). Available resources include Counseling Services, Health Services, Food Bank, and emergency funding support. See https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/wellness-center

Additional student resources to share: 

• Student academic support resources: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/academics/academic-resources-services.
• Academic Advisement Center: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/academics/academic-resources-services/academic-advisement-center
• Women’s Center for Gender Justice:  https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/womens-center-gender-justice
• LGBTQ+ Resource Center:  https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/lgbtq-resource-center
• The Immigrant Student Success Center:  https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/immigrant-student-success-center
• Housing: https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/admissions/housing-resources
• Military & veteran services:  https://new.jjay.cuny.edu/student-life/military-veteran-services

Spring 2025 Faculty Development Day last week was fun and informative. Materials will be posted online soon. Thank you to all who presented, attended and particularly to the TLC Director Gina Rae Foster and team members Kharry Josiah and Lindsay Parsons for their hard work.  Bookmark the TLC News & Opportunities page here to find more opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.

3.  Important:  Resources for Syllabi/Students  

Please bear in mind that some information is required on all syllabi. Please see the revised JJ Guidelines for Creating Your Syllabus and syllabus template. This includes policies like ADA accommodation policy (must be on page 1 of syllabi), academic integrity policy, and the resource information shared below and in item 2.

1. All reports of harassment, discrimination and/or sex-based misconduct should be sent to:  CDO@jjay.cuny.edu.  That is the NEW email address to include in your syllabi.  (Gabriela Leal moved to a new position at CUNY.)
2. Accessibility:  CUNY is required to ensure all course materials are accessible to students with disabilities. Students may request accommodations through the Office of Accessibility Services. Faculty are prohibited from denying students OAS-approved accommodation requests or from discouraging them from seeking an accommodation. Once OAS approves a student’s accommodation request, faculty must cooperate and assist in ensuring that the accommodation is delivered. Questions about a student’s reasonable accommodations: accessibilityservices@jjay.cuny.edu.
3. Faculty must have an ADA statement on the first page of our syllabi that includes the location and contact information for OAS.

Sample language:  I am committed to creating a course that is inclusive in its design. Students who need an accommodation due to a disability are encouraged to contact the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) within the first week of class or as soon as possible thereafter.  Requests for Accommodations can only be approved by the OAS. Students with disabilities are entitled to confidentiality over disability-related status or details. Students are not required to disclose their specific disability to their instructors or anyone else. All OAS approved accommodations will be honored and implemented in my course.  Contact OAS:  L.66 New Building; Phone: (212)237-8031; Email:  accessibilityservices@jjay.cuny.edu.

CUNY recently introduced CUNY Accommodate.  You can explore self-directed instructional videos and comprehensive guides on how to use the system (Access SharePoint then enter your CUNYfirst username and password to get started) using these links: CUNY Accommodate  Faculty Resources (Video & Documentation)

Students can request religious accommodations through the Dean of Students office: deanofstudents@jjay.cuny.edu.  See CUNY’s All Religions & Ethnic Holiday Calendar to assist with timing assignments and the CUNY policy on religious accommodations.

4.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events  

1. Faculty-led DEI Workshop:  Latinx Pedagogies: Teaching & Learning with Latinx Students at John Jay, with Belinda Rincon & Justino Rodriguez. Mon, Feb 3, 1:30-3:30PM.  Zoom: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/87092610636?pwd=FLHEZuHO6U4WQ5aCb8UwGmSppB03ZM.1
   Meeting ID: 870 9261 0636;  Passcode: 364732.
2. Food for Thought lunch, Mon, Feb 3, 1:30-2:45pm, Faculty/Staff Dining Room (2^nd floor NB). Join for lunch with colleagues, hosted by Law & Police Science speakers Peter Moskos & Gloria Browne-Marshall. Lunch is on us. RSVP here by Thurs, Jan 30. 
3. Panel Discussion & Opera (see flier):  Join us Tues, Feb 4, 1:45pm, Moot Court (6.68NB) for a discussion with four exonerees portrayed in BLIND INJUSTICE, a book and new opera that follows the Ohio Innocence Project’s efforts to overturn wrongful convictions. Opening remarks by Distinguished Professor Saul Kassin (PSY). The opera will be performed in the Rose Theater (Columbus Circle) on Feb 3 & 4 – we have discounted tickets to the performances (see flier). After the Feb 4th performance, Saul Kassin will be part of a talk back with Barry Scheck. RSVP by January 31: externalaffairs@jjay.cuny.edu
4. Library Author Series, Spring 2025:
    Weds, Feb. 5, 1:40-3pm, 2^nd floor Library classroom: Brandon Jackson (Soc), Brotherhood University: Black Men’s Friendships and the Transition to Adulthood. RSVP: https://BrotherhoodUniversity.eventbrite.com
5. Faculty FIRST FRIDAY:  Resources for Scholarship & Creative Activity, Fri, Feb 7, 1:30-3pm, with OAR and Library colleagues, in the TLC (335 HH). I will order pizza so please let me know if you are coming (apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu).
6. College Faculty/Staff Meeting, Mon, Feb 10, 1:40-2:55pm, L.61.

5.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities 

1. Last Call for Applications!  For TLC Spring Funded Faculty Seminars (deadline Fri, Jan 31). Seminar options below. Descriptions and details found using the application link.

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Seminar, with Claudia Zuluaga.  Link to apply: https://forms.gle/ZyUDFXwkCeHR4yPa7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET.
• Navigating Challenging Conversations in the Classroom Seminar, with Alessandra Early and Nicole McKenna. To apply: https://forms.gle/nqUZenDBaJw1un8W7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET

2. Credit for Prior Learning Professional Development Series: Credit for Work-Based Learning Experiences, Fri, Jan 31, 10-11am (virtual). Hear about exemplary work-based learning experiences across CUNY (e.g., internships, undergrad research programs): how they impart rigorous, curriculum-aligned college-level learning and help students gain career success skills, and how some academic departments evaluate the experiences for credit. For more info, see this flyer or webpage, or email CPL@cuny.edu. Register here.
3. Call for Proposals:  Next-Gen Learning: Integrate AI, Civic Engagement, or Sustainability into Pathways initiative. Information and proposal form here. Deadline: Feb 4. Consult with your provost for approval of your submission. Questions: Michael.Guy@cuny.edu.
4. CUNY Faculty Webinar Series for Online Instruction:  Innovative Alternatives to Traditional Assessments in STEM Courses, Weds, Feb 5, 3pm (virtual). Register Here.
5. Teaching Matters Series: Effective Survey Design, Crafting Questions to Obtain Better Insights, Fri, Feb 7, 11am-noon (virtual). Leads: Karyna Pryiomka (Lehman) & Rachel Hutchins (CUNY). Build skills to create effective surveys to foster student engagement. Learn how to design quality surveys to better understand students' needs. Explore types of survey questions and methods for interpreting and using responses effectively. Additional details in the workshop flyer. Register Here.  

6.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team)  

Advance registration not required for webinars, but please sign in to your John Jay Zoom account for security. For help with your John Jay Zoom account, contact the DOIT Help Desk (212.238.8200 or helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu). Please test it before the webinars.

TODAY!  DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Open Q & A, Weds, Jan 29, 2pm-3pm.

DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Quizzes, Weds, Feb 5, 2pm-3pm.
Meeting ID: 835 5108 3186; Passcode: 348288.  Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/83551083186?pwd=AYu0aajuYoOFn85BSnpQEFH7hpgQHp.1

DOES LMS Brightspace Drop-In Labs: Thurs, Jan 30 & Feb 6, 1:40pm-2:55 pm, L2.72.05 NB

Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

7.  Faculty Awards and Funding  

1. Request for Proposals!  From BRES Collaboration Hub:  Seed Grant Program for CUNY faculty who have not received BRES funding & Doctoral Fellowship Awards for first-year PhD students (AY 2024-25). Questions to Allen Hillery ALLEN.HILLERY23@login.cuny.edu

               - BRES Research Seed Grant Awards: Deadline: Fri, Feb 14, 5pm. Application Form. 
               Info Sessions:  Mon, Feb 3, 12-1 pm. Register here. Fri, Feb 7, 10-11 am. Register here.
               - BRES Doctoral Fellowship Awards: Deadline: Fri, Feb 14, 5 pm. Application Form.
               Info Session: Mon, Feb. 3, 12-1 pm. Register to attend here.

2. Call for Nominations! The John Jay Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Nominations may be submitted by faculty or staff. Deadline - Feb 15: Nomination Form. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
3. Call for Award Applications! OAR invites full-time faculty to apply for The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. The linked document details eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Please contact OAR at oar@jjay.cuny.edu with questions. Applications due by Thurs, Feb 20.  
4. Call for Nominations!  The Faculty Service to Students Award. Nominations due on or before Feb 21. Submit a one-page nomination letter outlining reasons a faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.
5. Funding is available for full-time faculty to engage in professional development, such as through the NCFDD Faculty Success Program (Summer 2025; apply for funds by Feb 15), research trainings or pedagogical development opportunities. Application form here:  Faculty Opportunity Fund.  Questions to Angela Crossman (apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu).  

8.  Faculty Health & Wellness 

Faculty members (and our families) can access free services through the Employee Assistance Program: CCA@YourService. For details, call 800-833-8707, go to www.myccaonline.com, or download the CCA@YourService App. Code: CUNY. 

      For mental health, access 3 free counseling sessions for each issue of concern (referrals for more as needed). Access support and/or resources around: child, adult and elder care; legal and financial challenges; health, wellness and emotional wellbeing; and daily living tasks. Their website has information and webinars on a wide range of work and life topics. 

      For physical fitness, there are discounted gym memberships for CUNY faculty or consider a well-priced JJ gym membership,which includes the tennis court, gym, pool and other facilities (https://johnjayathletics.com/sports/2014/9/5/GEN_0905145722).

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. Important dates (Academic calendars):
   1. Winter 2025:  Last day/finals: Thurs, Jan 23. Grade rosters open Jan 23-26.
   2. Last adjunct paycheck date for Winter: Jan 23. First pay date for spring: Feb 6.
   3. Spring 2025:  Classes begin Sat, Jan 25.
      • No classes scheduled: Weds, Jan 29; Weds, Feb 12 (college closed); Mon, Feb 17 (college closed); Mon, Mar 31; Apr 12-20 (spring recess). 
      • Classes follow Monday schedule on Tues, Feb 18; Wednesday schedule on Thurs, Mar 6. (Read about conversion days here.)
2. Books/Materials Adoptions Information for Spring:  SUBMIT NOW – even if no books – even independent studies. By federal law, we must post information FOR ALL COURSES.  198 faculty missing information. Log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty. Faculty can email adoptions@vitalsource.com for assistance with adoptions. 

2.  Important: Syllabus Changes  

There have been important changes to syllabus requirements and information. The revised JJ Guidelines for Creating Your Syllabus and syllabus template are posted.   

1. All reports of harassment, discrimination and/or sex-based misconduct should be sent to:  CDO@jjay.cuny.edu.  That is the email address to include in your syllabi.  (Gabriela Leal has moved to a new position at CUNY.)
2. Accessibility:  CUNY is required to ensure all course materials are accessible to students with disabilities. Students may request accommodations through the Office of Accessibility Services. Faculty and staff are prohibited from denying students OAS-approved accommodation requests or from discouraging students from seeking an accommodation with OAS. Once OAS approves a student’s accommodation request, faculty and staff must cooperate and assist in ensuring that the accommodation is delivered. Please direct questions about a student’s reasonable accommodations to accessibilityservices@jjay.cuny.edu.
3. Faculty must have an ADA statement on the first page of our syllabi that includes the location and contact information for OAS.
   
   Sample language:  I am committed to creating a course that is inclusive in its design. Students who need an accommodation due to a disability are encouraged to contact the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) within the first week of class or as soon as possible thereafter.  Requests for Accommodations can only be approved by the OAS. Students with disabilities are entitled to confidentiality over disability-related status or details. Students are not required to disclose their specific disability to their instructors or anyone else. All OAS approved accommodations will be honored and implemented in my course.  Contact OAS:  L.66 New Building; Phone: (212)237-8031; Email:  accessibilityservices@jjay.cuny.edu.
    
4. Students can request religious accommodations through the Dean of Students office: deanofstudents@jjay.cuny.edu.  See CUNY’s All Religions & Ethnic Holiday Calendar to assist with timing assignments and the CUNY policy on religious accommodations.

3.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

     Tomorrow is Spring 2025 Faculty Development Day (Thurs, Jan 23): How, When and Where Do We Realize the Work of Justice?  We are excited to see many of you on campus (or zoom) for learning, lunching and fun!  View the full FDD Program here.  And RSVP here.  

     With the first day of classes coming, one way to help students start out on the right foot is to make it fun. Play and fun help to build community.  Ice breakers and games can feel lame, but they also energize and engage people. Perhaps break students into pairs or small groups and do a scavenger hunt on your syllabus. They learn the requirements and get to meet each other. Feel free to check out Professors at Play Playbook for more ideas (free download).

     Bookmark the TLC News & Opportunities page here to find funded opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.

4.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events

1. Faculty-led DEI Workshop:  Latinx Pedagogies: Teaching & Learning with Latinx Students at John Jay, with Belinda Rincon & Justino Rodriguez. Mon, Feb 3, 1:30-3:30PM.  Meeting ID: 870 9261 0636;  Passcode: 364732.
2. Our next Food for Thought is Mon, Feb 3, 1:30-2:45pm, Faculty/Staff Dining Room (2^nd floor NB). Join for lunch with colleagues, hosted by Law & Police Science speakers Peter Moskos & Gloria Browne-Marshall. Lunch is on us. RSVP here by Thurs, Jan 30. 
3. Library Author Series, Spring 2025.
   Meet John Jay authors as they discuss their books and research, published or in progress. All events 1:40-3pm in the Library Classroom (2^nd floor). -  Weds, Feb. 5: Brandon Jackson (Soc), Brotherhood University: Black Men’s Friendships and the Transition to Adulthood. RSVP: https://BrotherhoodUniversity.eventbrite.com
4. College Faculty/Staff Meeting, Mon, Feb 10, 1:40-2:55pm, L.61.

5.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. Call for Applications!  For TLC Spring Funded Faculty Seminars (deadline Fri, Jan 31). Seminar options below. Approximately $600 compensation for completion. Complete descriptions and details can be found using the application link.

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Seminar, with Claudia Zuluaga.  Link to apply: https://forms.gle/ZyUDFXwkCeHR4yPa7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET.
• Navigating Challenging Conversations in the Classroom Seminar, with Alessandra Early and Nicole McKenna. To apply: https://forms.gle/nqUZenDBaJw1un8W7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET

2. Call for Proposals:  Next-Gen Learning: Integrate AI, Civic Engagement, or Sustainability into Pathways initiative. Information and proposal form here. Deadline: Feb 4. Consult with your provost for approval of your submission. Questions: Michael.Guy@cuny.edu.

6.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team)  

Advance registration is not required for webinars, but please sign in to your John Jay Zoom account for security. For help with your John Jay Zoom account, contact the DOIT Help Desk (212.238.8200 or helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu). Please test it before the webinars.

     TODAY!  DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Assignments, Weds, Jan 22, 2pm-3pm. 

     DOES LMS Brightspace Drop-In Lab: Thurs, Jan 23, 1:40pm-2:55 pm, L2.72.05 NB

     Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

7.  Faculty Awards and Funding  

1. Call for Nominations! The John Jay Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Nominations may be submitted by faculty or staff. Deadline - Feb 15: Nomination Form. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
2. Call for Award Applications! The Office for the Advancement of Research invites full-time faculty to apply for The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. The linked document has detailed information on eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Please contact OAR at oar@jjay.cuny.edu with questions. Applications due by Thurs, Feb 20.  
3. Call for Nominations!  The Faculty Service to Students Award. Nominations due on or before Feb 21. Submit a one-page nomination letter outlining reasons a faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.
4. Funding is available for full-time faculty to engage in professional development, such as through the NCFDD Faculty Success Program (Summer 2025; apply for funds by Feb 15), research trainings or pedagogical development opportunities. The short application form is found here:  Faculty Opportunity Fund.  Questions to Angela Crossman (apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu).   

1.  Important Dates/Information

1. Important dates: 
   1. Winter 2025:  Course withdrawal period ends Thurs, Jan 16. Last day of winter session/finals: Thurs, Jan 23. Grade rosters open Jan 23-26.
   2. The College is closed Mon, Jan 20.  Academic calendars.
   3. Adjunct paycheck dates for Winter 2025:  January 9 & 23, 2025
   4. Spring 2025:  Classes begin Sat, Jan 25. No classes Weds, Jan 29.
       
2. Books/Materials Adoptions OVERDUE for Spring:  SUBMIT NOW – even if no books – even independent studies.  By federal law, we must post information FOR ALL COURSES.  214 faculty missing information. Log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty. Faculty can email adoptions@vitalsource.com for assistance with adoptions. 

2.  Important Reminders: Accessibility 

The revised JJ Guidelines for Creating Your Syllabus and syllabus template are posted.   

Accessibility:  CUNY is required to ensure all course materials are accessible to students with disabilities. (See 4a below – today’s workshop on Accessibility & Brightspace.) Students may request accommodations through the Office of Accessibility Services. Faculty and staff are prohibited from denying students OAS-approved accommodation requests or from discouraging students from seeking an accommodation with OAS. Once OAS approves a student’s accommodation request, faculty and staff must cooperate and assist in ensuring that the accommodation is delivered. Please direct questions about a student’s reasonable accommodations to accessibilityservices@jjay.cuny.edu.

In addition, all faculty must have an ADA statement on the first page of their syllabi that includes the location and contact information for OAS.

Sample language:  I am committed to creating a course that is inclusive in its design. Students who need an accommodation due to a disability are encouraged to contact the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) within the first week of class or as soon as possible thereafter.  Requests for Accommodations can only be approved by the OAS. Students with disabilities are entitled to confidentiality over disability-related status or details. Students are not required to disclose their specific disability to their instructors or anyone else. All OAS approved accommodations will be honored and implemented in my course.  Contact OAS:  L.66 New Building; Phone: (212)237-8031; Email:  accessibilityservices@jjay.cuny.edu.

3.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

As you consider revisions to your spring syllabus, in light of concerns around artificial intelligence (and academic integrity), here are some ideas you might find useful. 

AI and Learning Definitions:

In our fall Flipping the Pyramid TLC seminar, faculty explored applying AI to developing critical thinking skills. One of our recommendations was to include definitions of AI and AI tools in our syllabi that help students understand how they can appropriately and effectively use generative AI and the limitations of AI for learning in our courses.

AI Academic Integrity Policies:

In Teaching with AI, Bowen and Watson (2024) suggest low-effort cheating interventions such as: discuss, model and promote the academic integrity policy with students and clarify what constitutes cheating; normalize help and struggle (acknowledge challenges and point students to resources routinely); and allow students to withdraw submissions. Because stress and deadlines increase temptation, a “regret clause” built into your syllabus allows a student who took a shortcut to reconsider (e.g., within 24 hours) and instead take a zero on the assignment they submitted (likely works best with low-stakes assignments). For some students, a short extension might do the trick in place of using AI.

AI and Teaching Resources:

The TLC updated its Ai & Teaching page here, with resources on AI and ethics and links to model syllabi statements. See this Teaching Essentials slide for additional syllabus resources.

Reminders:  Faculty Development Day (Thurs, Jan 23): How, When and Where Do We Realize the Work of Justice?  View the FDD Program here.  And RSVP here.  

Bookmark the TLC News & Opportunities page here to find funded opportunities and helpful resources from John Jay, CUNY, and beyond. To discuss teaching, mentoring, and resources, please contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.  

4.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Events 

1. TODAY! Workshop: Accessibility & Brightspace, Weds, Jan 15, 11:30am-1pm. With Elena Beharry (OAS) and Helen Keier (DOES LMS). ID: 821 8070 5579; Passcode: 252097.
2. Workshop – Overview of the City Human Rights Law, Thurs, Jan 16, 10am-11:30am. NYC Commission on Human Rights. Meeting ID: 856 6443 3559; Passcode: 276509.   
3. Workshop – What’s Next: Preparing and Supporting Immigrant Students, Thurs, Jan 16, 6pm. CUNY Office of Undocumented and Immigrant Student Programs, CUNY School of Law, CUNY Citizenship Now! and Unlocal host this workshop for students, faculty and staff who support undocumented and immigrant students. Zoom register here 
4. Our next Food for Thought is Mon, Feb 3, 1:30-2:45pm, Faculty/Staff Dining Room (2^nd floor NB). Join for lunch with colleagues, hosted by Law & Police Science speakers Peter Moskos & Gloria Browne-Marshall. Lunch is on us. RSVP here by Thurs, Jan 30. 
5. Save the dates! Library Author Series, Spring 2025. RSVP links will be available via the library event calendar soon. Meet JJ authors as they discuss their books and research, published or in progress. All events 1:40-3pm in Library Classroom (2^nd fl)
        -  Weds, Feb. 5: Brandon Jackson (Soc), Brotherhood University: Black Men’s Friendships and the Transition to Adulthood
        -  Tues, Mar 4: Michelle Holder (Eco), co-author of Political Economy of Racism: The Persistence of Anti-Blackness in the US
        -  Weds, Mar 19: Derek Tyler Attico (JJ ’18, Eng), The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko

5.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. Call for Participants!  Landmark Cases Faculty Lab, Spring 2025. Faculty will develop syllabi and assignments for 300-level Landmark Cases courses. To participate, email Wynne Ferdinand (wferdinand@jjay.cuny.edu) by Fri, Jan 17 with course preference and confirm you can attend meetings and complete deliverables. Compensation: $2000.
2. Call for Applications!  For TLC Spring Funded Faculty Seminars (deadline Fri, Jan 31). Two seminar options (see below). Approximately $600 compensation for completion.

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Seminar, with Claudia Zuluaga: Faculty will be introduced to UDL and investigate how to create accessible learning environments for all students, regardless of ability or learning style. Dates & times (in person ONLY):  Thurs, Feb 27; Tues, Mar 25; and Thurs, Apr 24: all @ 1:40-2:55pm. Link to apply: https://forms.gle/ZyUDFXwkCeHR4yPa7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET.
• Navigating Challenging Conversations in the Classroom Seminar, with Alessandra Early and Nicole McKenna:  We will identify materials or issues that are challenging to teach, improve our discussion-based facilitation skills, and increase confidence in navigating challenging conversations. Dates & times (in person ONLY): Tuesdays, 2/25, 3/25, 4/22; @ 1:40-2:55 pm. Application link: https://forms.gle/nqUZenDBaJw1un8W7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET

3. Call for Proposals:  Next-Gen Learning: Integrate AI, Civic Engagement, or Sustainability into Pathways initiative. Information and proposal form here. Deadline: Feb 4. Consult with your provost for approval of your submission. Questions: Michael.Guy@cuny.edu.

6.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team)  

Advance registration is not required for the webinars, but please sign in to your John Jay Zoom account for security. For help with your John Jay Zoom account, contact the DOIT Help Desk (212.238.8200 or helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu). Please test it before the webinars.

  TODAY! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Course Content (includes discussion of Course Copy), Weds, Jan 15, 2pm-3pm. Meeting ID: 857 6668 5513; Passcode: 379335

  DOES LMS Brightspace Drop-In Lab: Thurs, Jan 16, 1:40pm-2:55 pm, L2.72.05 NB

  DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Discussions, Tues, Jan 21, 2pm-3pm. Meeting ID: 857 5979 2866; Passcode: 998825. Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/85759792866?pwd=WeCMzkhNxS3xMr8o6b61z797wEclEn.1

Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

7.  Faculty Awards  

1. Call for Nominations!  Nominate your students’ best work of fall 2024 for publication in the upcoming, 40^th issue of John Jay’s Finest! The Finest features undergraduate writing from across disciplines (essays, research projects, analyses, arguments, stories, poems, personal narratives). Inclusion speaks of the fine effort of the student, the class, and the professor. Send up to three pieces to jjfinest@jjay.cuny.edu by January 15, 2025
2. Call for Nominations! The John Jay Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Nominations may be submitted by faculty or staff. Deadline - Feb 15: Nomination Form. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
3. Call for Award Applications! The Office for the Advancement of Research invites full-time faculty across all departments and disciplines to apply for The Faculty Scholarly Excellence Award and The Donal E.J. MacNamara Junior Faculty Award. The linked document has detailed information on eligibility criteria and application guidelines. We encourage you to review the guidelines and apply if your work meets the requirements for one or both awards. “Research” is used inclusively, embracing scholarly pursuits across all of the disciplines and departments represented at John Jay. Please contact OAR at oar@jjay.cuny.edu with questions. Applications due by Thurs, Feb 20.  
4. Call for Nominations!  The Faculty Service to Students Award. Nominations due on or before Feb 21. Submit a one-page nomination letter outlining reasons a faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.

1.  Important Dates/Info

1. Important dates: 
   1. Winter 2025 classes:  Course withdrawal period ends Thurs, Jan 16. Last day of winter session/finals: Thurs, Jan 23. Grade rosters open Jan 23-26.
   2. The College is closed Mon, Jan 20.  Academic calendars.
   3. Adjunct paycheck dates for Winter 2025:  January 9 & 23, 2025
       
2. Books/Materials Adoptions for Spring:  PLEASE SUBMIT NOW – even if no books.  We are required by federal law to post information FOR ALL COURSES. Thank you – we are at 80% - 244 folks still need to submit.  Please let me know if there is a problem you’d like help with for your submission. We hope to solve adoptions issues and don’t want to chase people (acrossman@jjay.cuny.edu).
   
   To submit a book order or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”, log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

As you begin to think about spring course planning, here are some useful resources and pedagogical development opportunities. (Note: The Chronicle of Higher Education is available through the JJ library.)

Resources: 

1. If you are reflecting on how Gen Z students are similar or different from those in prior years, here is a useful description:  https://lth.engineering.asu.edu/2022/08/gen-z/
2. Chronicle series on teaching Gen Z: https://www.chronicle.com/page/teaching-gen-z?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=campaign_12207710_nl_Academe-Today_date_20250106
3. Chronicle article on why teaching Gen Z students gives some professors hope: https://www.chronicle.com/article/why-generation-z-gives-these-professors-hope?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=campaign_12207710_nl_Academe-Today_date_20250106
4. Here is a recent Chronicle article with general tips on writing a syllabus: https://www.chronicle.com/article/how-to-create-a-syllabus/?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=campaign_12225915_nl_Academe-Today_date_20250107
5. The JJ model syllabus template is being updated and will be shared next week.

Development Opportunities:

1. Our DOES LMS team is offering Brightspace trainings (see 5 below) in Jan, including a ‘boot camp’ on Tues, Jan 14, 10am-1pm.
2. TLC Faculty Funded Seminars for spring are accepting applications (see 4c), in addition to other opportunities in 4 below.
3. Faculty Development Day (1/24/25): How, When and Where Do We Realize the Work of Justice?   RSVP here:  https://forms.gle/anWgEJ8vtT1otJdH9. Program: https://jjayfdd.commons.gc.cuny.edu/spring-2025-faculty-development-day-program-overview/

For teaching resources, contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster, gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.

3.  Upcoming Faculty Workshops/Awards  

1. Workshop – Harassing vs. Hurtful Speech: Classroom Conflict Management, Tues, Jan 14, 10am-11:30am. With Gabriela Leal (Compliance & Diversity) and Maria Volpe (Sociology).  Meeting ID: 851 5903 4816; Passcode: 529180.  (Flier below.) Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/85159034816?pwd=AYyXW4OJjfDKQh8GWvHeJh6Sx8PLh7.1 
2. Workshop – Accessibility & Brightspace, Weds, Jan 15, 11:30am-1pm. With Helen Keier (DOES LMS) and Elena Beharry (OAS). Meeting ID: 821 8070 5579; Passcode: 252097.
   Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/82180705579?pwd=zWrEraSbSc6aCkLujpitaknhczqprr.1
3. Workshop – Overview of the City Human Rights Law, Thurs, Jan 16, 10am-11:30am. NYC Commission on Human Rights. Meeting ID: 856 6443 3559; Passcode: 276509.  Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/85664433559?pwd=6rupcLQfdxS3blSo91ZhB2ZrRQL2qA.1
4. Call for Nominations! The John Jay Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Nominations may be submitted by faculty or staff. Deadline - Feb 15: Nomination Form. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
5. Call for Nominations!  The Faculty Service to Students Award. Nominations due on or before Feb 21. Submit a one-page nomination letter outlining reasons a faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu. 

4.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. Call for Proposals!  Future-Ready Gen Z: Closing Gaps with Pro-skills Workshops. First Year Programs at SASP invite JJ faculty to design and lead hands-on workshops to equip first- and second-year students with practical, widely applicable, career-ready skills in spring 2025. See details at this link.  Participants receive 15 paid, non-teaching adjunct hours for workshop design and delivery. To Apply. Submit proposals by Mon, Jan 13 through this LINK.  Questions to Nancy Yang, nyang@jjay.cuny.edu.
    
2. Call for Participants!  Landmark Cases Faculty Lab, Spring 2025. JJ’s Office of Academic Programs invites interdisciplinary faculty to develop syllabi and assignments for 300-level Landmark Cases courses. To participate, email Wynne Ferdinand (wferdinand@jjay.cuny.edu) by Fri, Jan 17 with course preference and confirmation of your ability to attend meetings and complete deliverables. Compensation: $2000.
    
3. Call for Applications!  TLC Spring Funded Faculty Seminar applications are now open (deadline Fri, Jan 31). There are two seminar options (described below). Approximately $600 compensation for seminar completion (subject to funding policies).

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Seminar, with Claudia Zuluaga.  Seminar Description (abbreviated):  Investigate how to create learning environments that are accessible to all students, regardless of ability and/or learning style. Faculty will be introduced to UDL with an emphasis on how to create equity in classrooms, remove barriers to success, empathize with our students, understand common obstacles to learning, and empower everyone to work from their strengths. During class sessions and via asynchronous assignments, we will work collaboratively to improve our learning environments so that all students can succeed. Dates & times (in person ONLY):  Thurs, Feb 27; Tues, Mar 25; and Thurs, Apr 24: all @ 1:40-2:55pm. Application link: https://forms.gle/ZyUDFXwkCeHR4yPa7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET.
• Navigating Challenging Conversations in the Classroom Seminar, with Alessandra Early and Nicole McKenna.  Seminar Description (abbreviated):  As criminal justice professors, we often cover controversial topics while navigating challenging macro-dynamics (e.g., global pandemic, warfare, police brutality). Our students are learning in these environments and many of us are asking, “how do I talk about this with my students?” Over three seminar sessions, we will identify materials or issues that are challenging to teach, improve our discussion-based facilitation skills, and increase confidence in navigating challenging conversations. Developed for faculty interested in developing resources to guide students, and themselves, through challenging conversations. Dates & times (in person ONLY):  Tuesdays, 2/25, 3/25, 4/22; all @ 1:40-2:55 pm. Application link: https://forms.gle/nqUZenDBaJw1un8W7. Deadline: Fri, Jan 31, 11:59pm ET

4. Call for Proposals:  Next-Gen Learning: Integrate AI, Civic Engagement, or Sustainability into Pathways initiative. Information and proposal form here. Deadline: Feb 4. Consult with your provost for approval of your submission. Questions: Michael.Guy@cuny.edu.

5.  Brightspace Resources (DOES LMS Team)  

Advance registration is not required for the webinars, but please sign in to your John Jay Zoom account for security. For help with your John Jay Zoom account, contact the DOIT Help Desk (212.238.8200 or helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu). Please test it before the webinars.

     TODAY! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Open Q & A, Weds, Jan 8, 2pm-3pm. Meeting ID: 833 0674 0919; Passcode: 286498. Submit Q’s to LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  

     DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Bootcamp, Tues, Jan 14, 10am-1pm.  Meeting ID: 823 3703 4482; Passcode: 502895. Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/82337034482?pwd=jp4mUxtjv4brzq5V8mUoyd2IbwMbfT.1

     DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Course Content (includes discussion of Course Copy), Weds, Jan 15, 2pm-3pm. Meeting ID: 857 6668 5513; Passcode: 379335.  Link: https://jjay-cuny.zoom.us/j/85766685513?pwd=vxZ51sgBSNoxJuc7lDYPnttIv4Di6y.1

     DOES LMS Brightspace Drop-In Lab: Thurs, Jan 16, 1:40pm-2:55 pm, L2.72.05 NB

     Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

1.  Important Dates/Info

NOTE:  The next two Wednesdays are holidays.  I will try to spare your inboxes and not send a weekly email until Jan 8 (except perhaps reminders).  SO – please submit grades on time and if you haven’t yet, submit book adoption information ASAP.  And Happy Holidays!

1. End of semester information: 
   - Fall 2024 classes:  Grade rosters close Fri, Dec 27. Do not be late.
   - Finals schedules: Academic calendars. Faculty MAY NOT CHANGE finals schedule.
   - 8-Week-2 Grad classes:  Grade rosters close: Fri, Dec 27. Do not be late.
   - The College is closed Dec 24, 25, 31 & Jan 1.
    
2. Books/Materials Adoptions for Spring:  PLEASE SUBMIT NOW – even if no books.  We are required by federal law to post information FOR ALL COURSES. Thank you to 806 faculty members who submitted (74%) - 292 are still out of compliance.  Please let me know if there is a problem you’d like help with for your submission. We hope to solve adoptions issues and really don’t want to chase people (acrossman@jjay.cuny.edu).
   
   To submit a book order or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”, log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

If you are considering assigning Incomplete (INC) grades. This option can support students’ growth and transitions to their next academic steps, if they can complete the missing work by the submission deadline (Thurs, May 1). Please remember that decisions regarding grades must align with college policies and your own syllabus policies.

     -   INC grades should be given only when a student would pass the course if they satisfactorily complete the remaining course requirements, at your discretion.

     -   INC grades should only be given in consultation with the student. There should be an agreed-upon plan for the student to work with you to resolve the INC grade on time (complete missing work). A sample agreement is posted here under “General forms”.

     -   In some cases, students prefer (and expect) to be assigned the grade they earned by the work they completed, rather than take an INC, making the consultation very important.

     -   A grade of WU (unofficial withdrawal) should only be assigned to students who have stopped participating and have not completed the course.  

     -   College grading info (including INC guidelines and what W grades mean) available HERE.

     For teaching resources, contact TLC Director Gina Rae Foster, gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu. Reminder: Faculty Development Day (1/24/25): How, When and Where Do We Realize the Work of Justice?  RVSP here: https://forms.gle/anWgEJ8vtT1otJdH9. Program: https://jjayfdd.commons.gc.cuny.edu/spring-2025-faculty-development-day-program-overview/

3.  Upcoming Faculty Events/Awards  

1. TODAY! John Jay Holiday Party, Weds, Dec 18, 4:30-6:30pm, 6^th Floor Haaren Hall. Hope you’re wearing your ugly sweater!!!
2. Call for Nominations! The John Jay Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award. Nominations may be submitted by faculty or staff. Deadline - Feb 15: Nomination Form. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
3. Call for Nominations!  The Faculty Service to Students Award. Nominations due on or before Feb 21. Submit a one-page nomination letter outlining reasons a faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.

4.  Pedagogical Development Opportunities  

1. Winter Workshop!  Teach a Landmark Case with Open Educational Resources (see attached flier). Faculty are invited to join a 3-meeting workshop in January to adopt OER for courses that teach about Landmark Supreme Court Cases (e.g., LAW/POL 313). Meeting Dates (zoom): 1/8, 1/15 & 1/22, 10:00-11:30 AM. Participants who complete deliverables receive $1200 stipend (review flier for details). RSVP by January 2, 2025 at https://forms.office.com/r/9FENHr7A8F. Questions to: wferdinand@jjay.cuny.edu.
    
2. Call for Proposals!  CUNY Research in the Classroom grants support faculty incorporating hands-on, experiential learning research activities in their undergraduate courses. Guidelines on website linked above. Proposals due by January 3, 2025.
    
3. Call for Proposals!  Future-Ready Gen Z: Closing Gaps with Pro-skills Workshops. First Year Programs at SASP is looking for John Jay faculty to design and lead hands-on workshops to equip first- and second-year students with practical, career-ready skills in spring 2025.  See details at this link.  Deadline January 13, 2025.
   
   What Skills?  We seek workshops that teach practical, widely applicable skills. Examples: Soft Skills (emotional intelligence, adaptability, impromptu or extemporaneous speaking, bilingual skills in professional contexts); Hard Skills (beginner graphic design, data storytelling, AI for student success, project management).
   Compensation. 15 paid, non-teaching adjunct hours for workshop design and delivery.
   To Apply. Submit your proposal by January 13 through this LINK.
   Questions? Nancy Yang, First Year Programs at SASP, nyang@jjay.cuny.edu.
    
4. Call for Participants!  Landmark Cases Faculty Lab, Spring 2025 (review flier for details).  John Jay’s Office of Academic Programs invites you to join a cohort of interdisciplinary faculty developing syllabi and assignments for 300-level Landmark Cases courses. The Faculty Lab is a collaborative program that pairs a compensated professional development seminar with preparation to teach the course in 2025-6 and beyond. Indicate your interest in participating by Friday, January 17th by emailing Wynne Ferdinand at wferdinand@jjay.cuny.edu with your course preference and confirmation of your ability to attend meetings and complete deliverables. Compensation: $2000.
    
5. Call for Proposals:  Next-Gen Learning: Integrate AI, Civic Engagement, or Sustainability into Pathways initiative. Information and proposal form here. Deadline: Feb 4. Consult with your provost for approval of your submission. Questions: Michael.Guy@cuny.edu.

5.  Brightspace Updates (DOES LMS Team)  

TODAY! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Open Q & A, Weds, Dec 18, 2pm-3pm. Submit Q’s to LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.

End of semester reminders posted HERE. Faculty are encouraged to reach out for assistance with grading tasks as early as possible. DOES LMS posted these How-to Guides to help:

• Create a Brightspace Assignment
• Access and Grade Assignment Submissions in Brightspace
• Quizzes in BrS (Hostos CC)
• Weighted Grade System in Brightspace

Important Note:  YuJa (tool that allows users to store, manage, and share media content) will no longer be available to faculty as of December 31, 2024. If you had any media in your Blackboard courses, you will need to revisit those courses (on Blackboard) to enter the YuJa dashboard and download your media files. You may store your files locally, on the hosting site of your choice (YouTube, etc.) or load them into your Media Library within Brightspace. For more information on how to bulk download media from YuJa, please visit https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/bulk-downloading-yuja-recordings.

     Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

1.  Important Dates/Info

A. End of semester information: 

• Fall 2024 classes:  Last day of class is Sat, Dec 14. Final exams Dec 15-Dec 21. Grade rosters open Sun, Dec 15. Grade rosters close: Fri, Dec 27.  Please do not be late.
• Final exam schedules: Academic calendars. Faculty MAY NOT CHANGE the date/time of their final exams. See more about final exams and final grades here.
• 8-Week-2 Grad classes:  Last class sessions & final exam period: Dec 19-21. Grade rosters open: Weds, Dec 18. Grade rosters close: Fri, Dec 27. Please do not be late.

B. Books/Materials Adoptions for Spring 2025:  We are required by federal law to post book/material information FOR ALL COURSES. Thank you to 676 faculty members who submitted (62%) - 405 are out of compliance.  Please submit NOW – even if NO BOOKS.

     - To submit a book order or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”, log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty.

C. The online student course evaluation period ends Dec 13. If students have trouble accessing the evaluation or for questions about the Student Evaluation of Faculty or the SEOF committee, contact seof@jjay.cuny.edu.

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC: End of Term Messaging 

We’re done (nearly). As we face student paper and project submissions, exam proctoring, and grading, we can lighten our students’ stress and improve their performance with a few simple strategies. Read on for advice from others (and a few tips of our own!).

Quick reads with effective strategies:

• Looking back, moving forward, and saying good-bye: Strategies for ending the semester (Northern Illinois University’s CITL): https://citl.news.niu.edu/2021/11/23/looking-back-moving-forward-and-saying-good-bye-strategies-for-ending-the-semester/
• 6 Strategies for College Students to Reduce Anxiety (Psychology Today): https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/nudging-ahead/202411/6-strategies-for-college-students-to-reduce-anxiety

Suggested content for email reminders:

• Your availability for questions and meetings. Keep your students informed. Let them know when you will be available for questions and meetings and when you are not able to answer email or be in your office. 
• Reminders of deadlines and policies for late submissions. Reiterate your deadlines for final papers and projects and your policies on late submissions.
• Academic Integrity Policy. Quote the college’s Academic Integrity Policy and AI Responsible Use Guidelines. https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/academics/academic-resources-services/registrar/academic-standards-requirements/academic-integrity and https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/academic-policies-and-guidelines

Extended library hours – reminder for your students:

• Mon, Dec. 9 - Thurs, Dec. 19: 8:30 AM - 11:45 PM. Extended hours for computer lab only. (Upper level and bookshelves, Reference, Circulation and Reserves: Regular library hours.)
• Special Sunday hours on Dec 15: Entire Library: 12-4:45 PM; Library Lab: 12-11:45 PM.

For teaching resources or questions, please contact Teaching & Learning Center Director Gina Rae Foster, gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.      

3.  Upcoming Faculty Events/Opportunities 

1. TODAY! CUNY Academic Works workshops: Weds, Dec 11 & Thurs, Dec 12, 1:40pm-2:10pm, Library Classroom. Questions to JJ Librarian Karen Okamoto (kokamoto@jjay.cuny.edu). Additional information HERE.
2. Education as a Pathway to Leadership, Thurs, Dec 12, 6-7:30pm, 6.68NB (Moot Court). Panel in collaboration with the NGO Committee on the Status of Women to commemorate the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. With Gillian D’Souza Nazareth, Olivera Jokic, Minister Aya Yoshida, Amber Barth and Gail Garfield. To register, click link in title above.
3. John Jay Holiday Party, Weds, Dec 18, 4:30-6:30pm, 6^th Floor Haaren Hall.
4. Call for Nominations! The John Jay Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award recognizes a full- or part-time faculty member for special achievement in service and/or leadership. Nominations may be submitted by faculty or staff. Deadline - Feb 15: Nomination Form. Questions to Angela Crossman at apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
5. Call for Nominations!  The Faculty Service to Students Award is presented to a full or part-time faculty member who makes exceptional contributions to the lives of students. Nominations due on or before Feb 21. Submit a one-page nomination letter outlining reasons a faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.

4.  Pedagogy:  Funding Opportunities & John Jay’s Finest Nominations  

1. Call for Proposals! CUNY Research in the Classroom grants support faculty incorporating hands-on research activities into their undergraduate courses for experiential learning. Eligible full-time faculty and lecturers invited to apply (up to $10,000 for course releases, summer salaries, research materials, or student travel). Awardees expected to implement activities in 2025-2026 and share curricular materials as Open Educational Resources. Guidelines on website linked above. Proposals due by January 3, 2025.
2. Call for Nominations!  Nominate your students’ best work of fall 2024 for publication in the 2025 issue of John Jay’s Finest – our 40^th! The Finest features undergraduate writing from across disciplines at the college (essays, research projects, analyses, arguments, stories, poems, personal narratives). The publication is always a highlight of the college writing year, and inclusion speaks of the fine effort of the student, the class, and the professor. Send up to three pieces to jjfinest@jjay.cuny.edu by January 15, 2025.
3. Call for Proposals:  Next-Gen Learning: Integrate AI, Civic Engagement, or Sustainability into Pathways initiative. Full-time faculty are invited to develop and integrate an assignment related to one of these topics in an approved Common Core course. $500 stipends for accepted proposals. Proposal form: here. Deadline: Feb 4.  Consult with your provost for approval of your submission. Questions to: Michael.Guy@cuny.edu.

5.  Research Funding/Opportunities  

1. PSC-CUNY Research Award Program (https://www.rfcuny.org/GP/welcome.aspx) application deadline: December 16, 11:59pm EST. Program info: this page. General application guidelines: click here. Applicant quick reference sheet: click here.
2. CUNY Academy Travel Awards 2024-2025 to support faculty presentations at academic conferences. Faculty at all levels are invited to apply, including adjuncts, lecturers, assistant and associate professors. Awards support travel to conferences (not virtual) if you are presenting. One request per applicant, up to $500 per person. See website for additional eligibility requirements. Questions to cunyacademy@gc.cuny.edu.

6.  Brightspace Updates (DOES LMS Team)  

TODAY! DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Computing Final Grades, Weds, Dec 11^th, 2pm-3pm.

End of semester reminders and schedule of more workshops posted HERE.

     Faculty are encouraged to reach out for assistance with grading tasks as early as possible. DOES LMS added 3 new How-to Guides to the website with the end of the semester in mind:

• Create a Brightspace Assignment
• Access and Grade Assignment Submissions in Brightspace
• Quizzes in BrS (Hostos CC)
• Weighted Grade System in Brightspace

     Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

7.  Professional Development Opportunities  

1. ELEVATE!  The Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions opened applications for ELEVATE (Enriching Learning, Enhancing Visibility, and Training Educators), a professional development opportunity for early-career faculty at Minority Serving Institutions to be hosted in Princeton, NJ, June 9 - June 12, 2025.  If you are interested in participating, complete their online application by January 20, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET. For early-career tenure-track faculty members who began their faculty career no earlier than 2019.
2. Funding is available for full-time faculty to engage in professional development, such as through the NCFDD Faculty Success Program (Summer 2025), statistics trainings or pedagogical development opportunities. The short application form is found here:  Faculty Opportunity Fund.  Questions to Angela Crossman (apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu). 

1.  Important Dates/Info

1. End of semester information: 
   1. Fall 2024 classes:  Last day of class is Sat, Dec 14. Final exams Dec 15-Dec 21. Grade rosters open Sun, Dec 15. Grade rosters close: Fri, Dec 27.   
   2. Final exam schedules: Academic calendars. Faculty MAY NOT CHANGE the date/time of their final exams. See more about final exams and final grades here.
   3. 8-Week-2 Grad classes:  Last class sessions & final exam period: Dec 19-21. Grade rosters open: Weds, Dec 18. Grade rosters close: Fri, Dec 27.  
2. Books/Materials Adoptions for Spring 2025:  We are required by federal law to post book/material information FOR ALL COURSES. Thank you to 602 faculty members who submitted (56%) - 432 are out of compliance.  Please submit NOW – even if NO BOOKS.  To submit a book order or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”, log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty.
3. For Fall 2024 (and 8-week-2) classes, the online student course evaluation period ends Dec 13. If students have trouble accessing the evaluation or for questions about the Student Evaluation of Faculty or the SEOF committee, contact seof@jjay.cuny.edu.
4. 17^th Annual First Year Showcase. Watch our incredible first-year students proudly present their semester-long research and projects. Tues, Dec 10, 1:40-3:00 PM, Student Dining Hall (NB). Witness their inspiring creativity, passion and hard work!

2.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

Many of us have only a few class sessions remaining or the final asynchronous discussions and activities for online courses. We are anticipating student presentations, final projects, and exams while we prepare for requests to change deadlines and negotiate grades (deep breaths!). It’s a good time to revisit your policies on grading, attendance, and participation.

     You might invite your students to review the syllabus for the course description and learning objectives and match these to what you’ve covered together this term. Alternatively, you might write an email or discussion post that highlights the content and skills they’ve learned that will transfer to their next courses and careers. Making these connections while reminding your students of their final responsibilities to the course adds growth-minded support and can alleviate anxieties and burnout.

     At the same time, be sure to revisit your policies on grading, attendance, and participation and refer to the relevant points when students ask for flexibility. Finding common ground for solutions may come more easily within the structures you’ve already set in place. Please remember that referrals to the Wellness Center (for health, counseling, accessibility, emergency funding, food, and other needs) and academic support services may be timely.

     If academic integrity questions arise, you can discuss them with the student and invite them to explain their work process. You can review the AI violation reporting process and resources here. Please consult with Academic Integrity Officer Jennifer Dobbins (jedobbins@jjay.cuny.edu) as early as possible, especially if a student’s grade would be impacted. For additional teaching questions and resources, please contact Teaching & Learning Center Director Gina Rae Foster, gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.      

Upcoming deadlines:

• Proposals for Faculty Development Day (Thurs, Jan 23) are due Mon, Dec 9, 11:59pm.
• Nominations for the Distinguished Teaching Prize are due Mon, Dec 9.

3.  Upcoming Faculty Events/Opportunities  

1. Our next Food for Thought is Tues, Dec 10, 1:30-2:45pm, Faculty/Staff Dining Room (2^nd floor NB). Join for lunch with colleagues, hosted by Modern Languages & Literatures speakers Rocío Carranza Brito, Cristina Lozano Argüelles, Aída Martínez Gómez, Javier Moreno Rivero & María Julia Rossi. Lunch is on us. RSVP here by Fri, Dec 6. 
2. Increase Readership and make your publications available to more readers by uploading them to our institutional repository, CUNY Academic Works (CAW). CAW Workshops: Weds, Dec 11 & Thurs, Dec 12, 1:40pm-2:10pm, Library Classroom. Questions to JJ Librarian Karen Okamoto (kokamoto@jjay.cuny.edu). Additional information HERE.
3. John Jay Holiday Party, Weds, Dec 18, 4:30-6:30pm, 6^th Floor Haaren Hall.
4. Call for Nominations! The John Jay Distinguished Faculty Service to the College Award recognizes a full- or part-time faculty member for special achievement in service and/or leadership. Honorees will have a sustained record of outstanding service contributions to the College and receive $1,000. Nominations may be submitted by faculty or staff. Deadline - Feb 15: Nomination Form. Questions to Angela Crossman at: apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu.
5. Call for Nominations!  The Faculty Service to Students Award is presented to a full or part-time faculty member who makes exceptional contributions to the lives of students. This may include but is not limited to ad-hoc or formal mentoring, support of student activities, and advisement. The recipient receives recognition and $1,000. Nominations due on or before February 21. Submit a one-page letter of nomination outlining reasons a faculty member deserves the award to Michael Lee, milee@jjay.cuny.edu.

4.  Upcoming Pedagogy Workshops/Funding  

1. 1st Friday Workshop: Friday, Dec 6, 1:30-3pm, 335HH (TLC): Enacting our 7 Principles in the Classroom. Presenters: Jessica Gordon-Nembhard (AFR) & Mangai Natarajan (CRJ). RSVP to apfaculty@jjay.cuny.edu by Thurs, Dec 5 (lunch provided). Resources: A Guide to Assignments for Open Pedagogy and the Seven Principles for A Culturally Responsive, Inclusive and Anti-Racist Curriculum (published by the TLC and John Jay OER team).
2. Call for Proposals:  Next-Gen Learning: Integrate AI, Civic Engagement, or Sustainability into Pathways initiative. Full-time faculty are invited to develop and integrate an assignment related to one of these three topics into an approved Common Core course. Brief proposals identify the course, outline the concept of the assignment, and explain how it meets course learning outcomes. New assignments and revisions to existing ones will be considered. $500 stipends for accepted proposals.  Link to the proposal form: here. Deadline: February 4, 2025.  Please consult with your provost for approval of your submission. Questions to: Michael.Guy@cuny.edu.

5.  Research Funding/Opportunities  

1. PSC-CUNY Research Award Program (https://www.rfcuny.org/GP/welcome.aspx) application deadline: December 16, 11:59pm EST. Program info: this page. General application guidelines: click here. Applicant quick reference sheet: click here.
2. CUNY Academy Travel Awards 2024-2025. The CUNY Academy offers travel awards to support faculty presentations at academic conferences. CUNY Faculty at all levels are invited to apply, including adjuncts, lecturers, assistant and associate professors
   
   Awards only support travel away from home for a professional conference (not virtual). Awards only if you are presenting at the conference. Note current CUNY Travel guidance on Domestic and International Travel. One request per applicant, up to $500 per person. See website for additional eligibility requirements. Travel must occur between Sept 1, 2024 and Aug 31, 2025. Receipts must be submitted within 30 days of travel or faculty risk rescinding the award. Questions to cunyacademy@gc.cuny.edu.
3. Call for proposals!  The CUNY Research in the Classroom (RIC) grant program encourages faculty to incorporate research activities into their undergraduate courses. Initiative supports experiential learning, providing students with hands-on research experience while advancing faculty research aims. Eligible full-time faculty and lecturers across all disciplines are invited to apply for a RIC Fellowship, worth up to $10,000. Can be used for course releases, summer salaries, research materials, or student travel. Awardees are expected to implement their course designs in the 2025-2026 academic year and share their curricular materials as Open Educational Resources. Guidelines on the website linked above. Proposals due by January 3, 2025.

6.  Brightspace Updates (DOES LMS Team)  

     DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Quizzes, Weds, Dec 4^th, 2pm-3pm.

     DOES LMS Drop-in Lab, Monday, December 9, 1:40 – 2:50 pm, L2.72.04 NB.

     DOES LMS How to Webinar: Brightspace Computing Final Grades, Weds, Dec 11^th, 2pm-3pm

     Faculty are encouraged to reach out for assistance with grading tasks as early as possible. DOES LMS added 3 new How-to Guides to the website with the end of the semester in mind:

• Create a Brightspace Assignment
• Access and Grade Assignment Submissions in Brightspace
• Weighted Grade System in Brightspace

Information: Brightspace Email and Notifications Delivery  and more info is available from DOES. Contacts. Faculty: LMS.faculty@jjay.cuny.edu.  Student: LMS.student@jjay.cuny.edu.

7.  Professional Development Opportunity  

ELEVATE!  The Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions (CMSI) opened applications for their early-career faculty development program, ELEVATE (Enriching Learning, Enhancing Visibility, and Training Educators). This program is a unique 3-day professional development opportunity for early-career faculty at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). ELEVATE supports the ongoing learning, training, and networking of early career MSI faculty by providing workshops, opportunities to network with peers, and a platform for collaboration.

This year's ELEVATE will be hosted in Princeton, NJ, from June 9 - June 12, 2025.

If you are interested in participating, please complete their online application by January 20, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Selected faculty will be announced by email on March 11, 2025.

ELIGIBILITY DETAILS

• Must be an early-career faculty member (defined as tenured-track, untenured assistant professor, or equivalent)
• Must have begun their faculty career no earlier than 2019
• Must work at an accredited Minority Serving Institution

KEEP IN MIND

• ELEVATE is offered free of registration fees and covers meals and materials to minimize the financial burden of participating. Fellows’ hotel stays will be covered by CMSI for select event dates. Fellows are responsible for covering the cost of their individual travel to/from the conference. They encourage you to seek institutional support if available.
• Happily, John Jay Institutional Support is available via the Faculty Opportunity Fund! 

8.  Free Holiday Fun

The Shops at Columbus Circle.  Just down the road a bit, some free holiday events to enjoy.

1. Broadway Under the Stars:  Watch free, live performances from current Broadway shows including Moulin Rouge tonight (broader Moulin Rouge! Musical Bohemian Winter Rendezvous is 4-7pm) and The Lion King, Aladdin, and Wicked tomorrow. Shows on the 2^nd floor Stage, 5-6pm, Dec 4^th, 5^th, 12^th, 19^th. Full schedule at the link.
2. Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Webop Holiday Jazz Jam:  Families are invited to these free, festive and interactive, holiday-themed live jazz performances. Young music lovers can swing and sing along with talented musicians. Designed for children ages 8 months-8 years. Shows approx. 45 mins, no registration required. Shows on the 2^nd floor Stage, Dec 13 & Dec 17 @ 3pm; Dec 18 & Dec 20 @ 11am. More information at the link above.

1.  Important Dates/Info

• Weds, Nov 27: Classes follow Friday schedule. Thurs, Nov 28 – Sun, Dec 1: No classes.  8-Week-2 grad classes: Nov 30 is deadline to drop with W grade. Academic calendars. 
• Books/Materials Adoptions for Spring 2025:  Deadline is Nov 30.  We are required by federal law to have book/material information provided FOR ALL COURSES by the time students register. Thank you to the 554 faculty members who submitted book information (51%) - 468 to go.  Please submit ASAP – even to say NO BOOKS.
       To submit a book order or indicate “no adoptions required/course does not use books”, log in to the bookstore at: JohnJayBooks.com with your CUNYfirst log in credentials. Click the faculty link to submit your course material ISBNs. If you click the “Help” button (left side), you can find a brief how-to book adoption video and pdf guide for faculty.
• For Fall 2024 (and 8-week-2) classes, the online student course evaluation period is Nov 26-Dec 13. Faculty who wish to adjust the period during which students can complete evaluations (spigot) can do so Nov 19-25 or leave the default 2-week evaluation period. If students have trouble accessing the evaluation or for questions about the Student Evaluation of Faculty or the SEOF committee, please contact seof@jjay.cuny.edu.

2.  Engaging, Bloodhound Style!  

NCAA Bound!  For the first time ever, the Women’s Volleyball team will compete in the NCAA Regional Tournament. They play Washington & Lee University on Thursday, 2:00pm in VA, having won the 2024 CUNYAC Championship last Friday.  Go Bloodhounds!!

Stay tuned!  Fans can watch some games via live stream or perhaps come to a game or match in person (schedule here). Our student athletes love it when faculty come to cheer them on to victory!

For our fitness needs, we can access a well-priced JJ gym membership, to use the tennis court, gym, pool and other facilities (https://johnjayathletics.com/sports/2014/9/5/GEN_0905145722).

3.  Timely Teaching Tip from the TLC  

     Student evaluations of courses are on our minds. Have you wondered about your students’ priorities when they rate their courses and instructors? ACUE recently released a research brief that explores students’ perceptions of their instructors – and what qualities impact their likelihood of recommending an instructor. The primary themes they identified were: instructional clarity, student support, perceived instructor attributes (e.g., professionalism, kindness) and active learning (you can see the complete report here).

     In a discussion of the report, panelists shared a few techniques they find helpful. For instance, one described arriving early to class, giving students an additional opportunity to talk with the professor and ask questions that increase instructional clarity. Another provides students ‘skeletal’ notes (lecture notes with information gaps to fill in) to help them engage and learn actively during class. To get a sense of students’ perceptions of a course in action, another described asking students to complete a prompt: “I learned the most in class when we…” or “what I am still thinking about from last week’s class is…” and reflect back to the class your thoughts on how you might apply their feedback to changes in the class, now or in the future. Opening classes to these activities may increase student participation in evaluations to offer useful comments to improve our teaching.

     Speaking of open, the TLC and the John Jay OER team published a free guide that suggests collaborative assignments with students for different class sizes and teaching methods. Take a look and adapt for your needs:  A Guide to Assignments for Open Pedagogy and the Seven Principles for A Culturally Responsive, Inclusive and Anti-Racist Curriculum

For additional resources to support your teaching, contact Teaching & Learning Center Director Gina Rae Foster at gifoster@jjay.cuny.edu.      

Upcoming deadlines: