For some ten years, the Connecticut Community College System has
administered a Minority Fellowship Program for qualified individuals
interested in beginning or advancing a career in the community colleges.
The Minority Fellowship Program pairs an experienced college
professional with a "fellow" for a year-long mentoring experience. The
goal of the program is to further diversify the system's professional
workforce and to promote community college career opportunities as
desirable options for members of minority groups.
The Minority Fellowship Program is jointly sponsored by the Board of
Trustees of Community Colleges and the professional staff union: the
Congress of Connecticut Community Colleges, AFSCME and AFT.
WHO CAN BE A FELLOW?
Fellows may be either current employees of the system or graduate
students who have successfully completed at least six (6) credits of
graduate studies. Non-employee fellows receive a stipend in the amount
of $3500 per semester. Community college employees are reassigned time
from current employment responsibilities.
FELLOWS EXPERIENCE A VARIETY OF BENEFITS:
The program offers a superb opportunity to work with and learn from an
experienced faculty or staff member, as well as a chance to build
relationships with professionals in their field within the community
college system. Fellows are exposed to the diverse needs and interests
of students enrolled in the community college system.
EXPECTATION OF FELLOWS:
Both teaching and administrative fellows are expected to dedicate nine
hours per week to the Minority Fellowship Program. Teaching fellows
generally spend six hours per week in teaching-related activities under
the supervision of the mentor. The fellow takes on increased
responsibilities as the year progresses. During the second semester, the
fellow assists the mentor in teaching a course. Administrative fellows
spend at least six hours per week in structured administrative activity
with the remaining time spent on assigned activities such as attending
campus orientation activities and participating in college meetings or
professional development activities.
SELECTION OF FELLOWS:
There may be up to 13 fellowships -- one on each campus and one in the
Chancellor's Office. A Search Committee will review applications to the
program and make recommendations to the College President or the
Chancellor, as appropriate.
Applicants who strengthen the racial and cultural diversity of the
minority fellow registry are encouraged to apply. Current system
employees may apply.
All candidates must:
Be matriculated in or have completed a graduate
program
Have successfully completed a minimum of six credits
in graduate studies
In good faith, be willing to commit to a minimum of
one year of employment, if offered a full-time position in the
community college system.
