Welcoming New Faculty Members: A Comprehensive Orientation at AUCA

August 26, 2024

#CTLT

On August 19, 2024, the American University of Central Asia (AUCA) launched a thorough orientation program for its new faculty members to equip them with essential knowledge and resources for a successful start at the university. The event, organized by the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Technology (CTLT), was held in Classroom 403 and featured presentations by crucial university departments.

The day began with a warm welcome from Chynarkul Ryskulova, AUCA's Vice President for Academic Affairs. Then, its Director, Anguelina Popova, introduced the CTLT.  ANguelina Popova and Deputy Director Ekaterina Kombarova provided an overview of the course design and the role of CTLT in supporting teaching excellence at AUCA.

The Human Resources (HR) orientation, led by HR Director Saltanat Rustembekova, covered critical topics such as AUCA’s organizational chart, key university policies, and available resources. Rustembekova also introduced the HR services and key contacts faculty members might need throughout their tenure.

Umut Jumalieva from the Administrative Services Center (ASC) provided insights into the various administrative services, including using the Universal ID (UIDC) card, addressing frequent questions, and connecting faculty with essential resources.

 

The IT Department, represented by Almaz Bakenov and Zarlyk Jumabek uulu, offered a detailed overview of AUCA’s technological infrastructure. This included guidance on accessing the AUCA network, utilizing tech support, reserving equipment like projectors and laptops, and an introduction to the university’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy.

A civic engagement session led by Margarita Lazutkina, the Green AUCA program coordinator, highlighted the university’s commitment to social responsibility. Lazutkina and Aliia Iusupova from the Center for Civic Engagement showcased various activities, workshops, and projects from previous years that emphasized the importance of faculty involvement in community initiatives. They also introduced the Green AUCA program, which focuses on sustainability through waste management and recycling. The session concluded with an engaging mini-game on recycling, encouraging new faculty members to participate actively in the university's green initiatives.

 

Elmira Amandykova, Head of the Medical Service Office, provided an overview of the healthcare services available to faculty, emphasizing the importance of health and well-being within the AUCA community.

The afternoon session resumed with presentations from several key departments, starting with Jibek Toichubekova from the Registrar’s Office, who provided crucial information about course enrollment, online registration, grading systems, and the academic calendar. Zarina Beishenbaeva, Director of Advising Services, followed with an overview of the advising resources available to faculty, addressing common questions and concerns.

Mariya Antonova, Director of the Writing and Academic Resource Center (WARC), presented the center's services, focusing on how faculty can collaborate with the center to enhance student success. This session also included input from WARC Coordinator Khiradmand Sheraliev.

 

The AUCA Counseling Service team, led by Aida Parpieva, highlighted the mental health support available to faculty and students. Parpieva was joined by Ekaterina Tsoy and Nargiz Subanalieva, who provided further insights into the counseling services offered.

 

Following a coffee break, Christopher Baker, Director of Research Opportunities at AUCA, introduced the research facilities and opportunities available to faculty, encouraging active participation in the university’s research community.

 

The day concluded with a campus tour led by Ejaterina Kombarova, which gave new faculty members a firsthand look at AUCA’s facilities and services.

This comprehensive orientation ensured that new faculty members were well-equipped to integrate into the AUCA community and had a clear understanding of the resources, policies, and opportunities available to them. As they embark on this new academic journey, AUCA’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and civic engagement promises to provide a supportive and enriching environment for faculty and students.

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