The Office of Faculty Affairs (OFA) would like to thank John Bertot for his eleven years of leadership as Associate Provost, as he moves on to a new role as Dean of the College of Information. While we’ve worked with him in different ways and at different times, we’ve all benefited from his thoughtful decision-making and his ambitious vision for how this office could serve the university.

John has stewarded thousands  of faculty cases  for tenure and permanent status, promotion, emeritus status, and awards. He improved and led these processes with care and attention, supporting faculty careers across every college and contributing in meaningful ways to the strength of the institution.

John’s work has also changed how the University of Maryland supports professional track (PTK) faculty members, creating a more systematic appointment and promotion process along with new opportunities for engagement. He made a point of bringing PTK colleagues into decision-making, including through the PTK Working and Advisory Groups. During his time, the annual PTK Symposium was launched, along with a set of awards recognizing PTK excellence. One of OFA’s newer leadership programs, Fearless Leadership Foundations, was created specifically to support both TTK and PTK faculty stepping into leadership roles.

OFA’s work in faculty and leadership development has grown significantly under John’s leadership. With Maryland’s move into the Big Ten, the office now supports annual cohorts in the Academic Leadership Program (ALP) and the Department Executive Officer (DEO) programs through the Big Ten Academic Alliance. Leadership development has also expanded through programs like Fearless Unit Leadership and Fearless Leadership Foundations; faculty development through Writing Groups, Faculty Forums, and Provost’s Dialogues. In addition, the Center for Leadership and Organizational Change (CLOC) and ADVANCE now contribute to this work in collaboration with OFA. Together with TLTC and the Office of Community Engagement, these efforts are now networked through the Provost’s Collaboratory for Faculty Leadership and Development, helping better coordinate and strengthen support for our faculty.

There are also many less visible ways John has shaped the Office of Faculty Affairs and served the university. Under his leadership, OFA launched this newsletter for better communication and improved transparency. He contributed to numerous important new and existing faculty policies and collaborated closely with the University Senate, the Office of Integrity and Responsible Conduct, the Office of General Counsel, Belonging and Community, and the Associate Deans for Faculty Affairs across campus. A vibrant organization for retired faculty now offers talks, book clubs, social events, and intellectual exchange. Orientation for new faculty and administrators has been expanded and refreshed. Problems have been solved that you probably did not know existed.  

Finally, John has led OFA with care and compassion, creating a work environment that values not just accomplishments, but also potential and humanity. Those who have had the chance to work with him know how much that has mattered.