As the semester draws to a close, the Faculty Council wants to take a moment to say something simple: thank you. Teaching, advising, researching, serving — often all at once — takes tremendous energy and dedication. This edition is for you. We hope it serves as a gentle reminder that rest is not a reward to be earned but a professional necessity (for a thoughtful discussion—and appreciation of what professors do during the “summer break”—see this piece from the Chronicle).

The final Faculty Council meeting of the year will take place on May 13. We look forward to closing the year together and connecting with colleagues before the summer begins.

The final Faculty Council Meeting

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 12:00 to 14:00 

Location: Space City Room #214, Student Center South

We kindly ask that all Councilors attend in person. 

Faculty Benefits: Making the Most of What's Available

The summer is a good time to revisit UH’s faculty benefits and wellness resources. The Faculty Benefits & Resources Handbook provides a comprehensive overview of what is available to you, including well-being programming, mental health support, and professional development funding.

Faculty are also encouraged to explore the HR POWER UP employee wellness program, which offers resources designed to support physical, mental, and financial well-being year-round. Taking advantage of these resources over the summer — rather than waiting for peak-stress periods — is an investment in sustainable performance and personal health.

NCFDD and Magna Commons

UH provides faculty with access to two powerful professional development platforms: the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity (NCFDD) and Magna Commons. Both platforms offer on-demand content covering productivity, work-life balance, grant writing, course design, and leadership development — all accessible on your own schedule. If you have not yet activated your NCFDD membership, the summer is the ideal time. Visit https://www.uh.edu/fed/services/professional-development/ for access instructions.

Reconnect with Your Research and Creative Work

For many faculty, summer is when deep, uninterrupted scholarly work becomes possible again. The Division of Research encourages faculty to use this time intentionally — whether that means drafting a grant proposal, writing, conducting fieldwork, or simply reading in your area of interest. If you are planning a summer submission, consider engaging the Division of Research early for support with proposal preparation.

Rest as a Professional Practice

Sustained academic performance depends on sustainable habits. Research on faculty well-being consistently points to the importance of genuine rest — not just reduced busyness, but deliberate disengagement from work demands. Whether that means travel, time with family, a creative pursuit, or simply slower mornings, the Faculty Council encourages you to protect that space this summer. You have earned it, and your students, colleagues, and institution benefit when faculty return renewed.

Do you have ideas, feedback, or topics you would like to see featured in UH Together? We would love to hear from you! Share your thoughts here: https://forms.office.com/r/iDkuvcvbWB.