Kickoff and Collaborate: Strengthening the Undergraduate Education Community

Mission

The annual Kickoff and Collaborate gathering brings together colleagues from across Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education units to launch the academic year with a shared purpose, build meaningful connections, and foster collaboration that enhances a cohesive, student-centered undergraduate experience.

Event Goals

• Launch the academic year with shared direction.
• Strengthen relationships across units.
• Increase visibility and understanding of unit work.
• Celebrate collective and individual contributions.
• Foster a shared sense of purpose and identity.

Awards

Award nominations open Monday, May 18.

Nominations will be reviewed and selected by the UE Annual Kickoff Planning Committee and final decisions confirmed by the UE Senior Leadership Team. Each nomination will be evaluated based on:

• Degree to which the nominee exemplifies the award (per the below criterion)
• Demonstrated impact
  • Clear evidence of positive outcomes or meaningful change
  • Scope and significance of impact on students, colleagues, or VPUE goals.
• Alignment with VPUE’s mission and values
  • Demonstrates commitment to undergraduate education, collaboration, service and care.
  • Reflects VPUE’s emphasis on shared responsibility and community.

Award recipients will be recognized at the UE Annual Kickoff (Kickoff and Collaborate) on Monday, September 14, 2026, and highlighted through VPUE communications.  Any part-time or full-time staff member of a unit under the direction of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education is eligible.