Why apply?
You already care about excellence in teaching and learning. Now come share that enthusiasm, and your expertise as an educator, with others. Become a part of a community of committed educators. Weigh in on policy issues that affect teaching and learning at UW. Engage in regular conversations with others in the campus teaching and learning community on topics that significantly impact teaching during member events and retreats. Build relationships, skills, community, and a better UW-Madison.
Creation: The Faculty Senate created the Teaching Academy — the first of its kind in the Big 10 — 30 years ago on December 6, 1993. The formation of the Teaching Academy was one of the recommendations of the Committee on Teaching Quality, Evaluation, and Rewards Committee, which was primarily charged with investigating the broad scope of issues that affect the quality, rewards, and incentives for teaching on the Madison campus. (source: UWTA_2000-07-27_Information Page). Membership was initially limited to 120 Fellows — 5% of the 2400 faculty on campus, but has expanded to recognize the roles of staff, teaching assistants, and post-docs.
From the bylaws:
Section 1. Fellows shall consist of those nominated from the UW-Madison faculty and staff who have directly and/or indirectly highly impacted teaching & learning at UW-Madison for at least 3 years and have demonstrated a commitment to the University’s educational mission. The executive committee will vote on nomination packages for Fellows.
Section 2. Fellows are encouraged to be active participants in Teaching Academy events, serve on subcommittees and provide input into Teaching Academy initiatives by (a) sharing their enthusiasm and expertise as an educator with others, (b) weighing in on policy issues that affect teaching and learning at UW, (c) enriching the community of committed educators.
Section 3. UW-Madison Teaching Academy Future Faculty Partners (FFPs) are actively involved in classroom, field, outreach or extension education. The executive committee will vote on nomination packages for FFPs.
Section 4. For educators in any setting who wish to affiliate with the Teaching Academy, the EC shall create policies as needed.
Apply at any time!
The Teaching Academy recognizes excellence in teaching and learning occurs in a variety of spaces and methods — in and out of the classroom. We welcome applicants who teach or support traditional classrooms, clinical practice, field instruction, or learner support at any level.
See current members, and apply!
Standard Application Packet Checklist
If applying to be a Fellow or FFP, the standard method for applying requires an application packet containing:
- Personal Statement that indicates:
- Educator experience (# of years/semesters at UW-Madison)
- Evidence of excellence teaching and/or supporting teaching and learning
- Teaching philosophy
- Two letters of support from learners (500-word limit per each; Letters of Support can come from anyone who can attest to their experience of learning from you)
- One nomination letter (optional)
- Abbreviated curriculum vitae (two-page maximum) that highlights your teaching and learning activities.
- UW-Madison educational settings include but are not limited to: Lecture, Online/Blended, Lab, Seminar, Discussion sections, Studio, Clinical settings, Certification programs, Field-based labs, Classes, Community-based Learning settings, Tutoring, Supervision, etc.
More details
(click the + to expand)
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Affiliates
The Affiliate status recognizes and welcomes instructors (faculty and staff), teaching assistants, and graduate students who demonstrate ongoing interest in improving teaching and learning, but who might not yet have the three years of demonstrated excellence at UW-Madison required for Fellow status (or three semesters for FFPs). It may also be awarded as an honor to recognize contributions to Teaching Academy events, such as to those who present at our Fall and Winter Retreats. Affiliate status is effective for three years. Once they’re ready, Affiliates should apply to be Fellows or FFPs. Applications for memberships from Affiliates and Clinical Affiliates are reviewed periodically, with notifications sent to applicants via email.
Future Faculty Partner (FFPs)
FFPs have demonstrated sustained teaching excellence and a commitment to advancing the mission of the Academy for three semesters. There are three pathways for Future Faculty Partner membership:
- Application Packet (see checklist above), OR
- Nomination packet developed for a prior a teaching award (within last 10 years), OR
- Letter of support from the Dean, Chair or Program director of your school/college or department.
Once you have determined which pathway, and assembled documents, upload them here: FFP/Fellow Application. Note: you must login to Google with your wisc.edu account to access this form.
Fellows
Fellows have demonstrated sustained teaching excellence and a commitment to advancing the mission of the Academy for three years. There are three pathways for Fellow or Future Faculty Partner membership:
- Application Packet (see checklist above), OR
- Nomination packet developed for a prior a teaching award (within last 10 years), OR
- Letter of support from the Dean, Chair or Program director of your school/college or department.
Once you have determined which pathway, and assembled documents, upload them here: FFP/Fellow Application. Note: you must login to Google with your wisc.edu account to access this form.
Joint Dual IPE Distinguished Fellowship
In 2021, the UW Center for Interprofessional Practice and Education (UW CIPE) and the UW–Madison Teaching Academy announced the inaugural application of the Joint Dual UW CIPE and Teaching Academy IPE Distinguished Fellowship. Up to three honorary distinguished fellowships are awarded to faculty members, academic staff, and professional students in recognition of their excellence in IPE teaching, practice, research, and/or leadership at UW-Madison and beyond. Learn More.