The role of faculty extends far beyond the classroom. It’s a delicate balance of innovation, dedication, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Successful faculty members don’t just teach—they inspire, lead, and adapt. But what truly sets exceptional educators apart?

In this post, I’ll share a few core qualities that define a successful faculty member and actionable insights on how to cultivate them.

1. Innovators Are Self-Starters

Innovative faculty members don’t wait to be told what to do—they take the initiative. They:

• Anticipate challenges and create contingency plans.

• Persist in the face of obstacles, finding creative ways to overcome them.

• Consistently engage in professional development to stay at the forefront of their field.

Importantly, they avoid outsourcing their primary duties. Whether it’s relying too heavily on publisher websites or delegating critical work to assistants, successful educators own their role in the learning process. They’re invested in their students’ success, as seen in the time they dedicate to preparing meaningful lessons.

2. They Embrace Ethical Leadership

True leaders in academia:

• Celebrate the accomplishments of team members instead of claiming credit.

• Avoid unethical behaviors like manipulation, cronyism, or favoritism.

• Support not only their students but also their peers and administrators, fostering a collaborative environment.

Integrity is a cornerstone of a successful faculty member’s character. It’s the trust they build with their community that strengthens their impact.

3. They Conquer the Brain Barriers to Change

Black and Gregersen (2002) identify three key barriers to change in their work. These are particularly relevant for faculty adapting to evolving educational landscapes:

1. Failure to See: Without recognizing the need for change, no progress can happen.

2. Failure to Move: Familiarity is comforting, even when ineffective. Stepping into the unknown requires courage.

3. Failure to Finish: Knowing change is necessary but not understanding how to implement it can lead to stagnation.

To overcome these barriers, successful faculty embrace a four-stage cycle of change:

1. Doing the right thing well.

2. Realizing the right thing is now the wrong thing.

3. Doing the new right thing, even if imperfectly.

4. Mastering the new right thing over time.

By embracing this cycle, educators position themselves as resilient and adaptable leaders.

4. They Cultivate Core Qualities

To thrive as a faculty member, you must actively develop the following qualities:

• Vision: Keep your eyes on the future. Anticipate trends in education and student needs.

• Optimism: Focus on possibilities rather than dwelling on challenges.

• Dedication: Commit to your craft and the success of your students.

• Flexibility: Adapt to new teaching methods, technologies, and classroom dynamics.

• Time Management: Use your time productively to juggle responsibilities effectively.

• Action-Oriented: Stop overthinking and act. Progress requires forward motion.

5. They Prioritize Continuous Improvement

Successful faculty know that stagnation is the enemy of progress. They regularly assess their teaching methods, seek feedback, and refine their approach. Professional growth is not optional—it’s essential.

Summary

Being a successful faculty member isn’t about doing one thing perfectly; it’s about committing to a mindset of growth, integrity, and adaptability. Whether you’re a new educator or a seasoned veteran, take time to reflect on these qualities and how you can integrate them into your daily practice.

Well, I hope you found this post useful. If you did, I’d be grateful if you’d help spread the word by sharing this with friends or colleagues on LinkedIn, Facebook, Reddit, or any other social media platform you use.

Reference:

Black, J. S., & Gregersen, H. B. (2002). Leading strategic change: Breaking through the brain barrier. FT Press.