Willett, Chris

UNC Service

I have served two terms in the past as a UNC Faculty Council representative from 2014-2020. Currently I am the director of graduate studies and admissions for the Biology department. Related to this last activity, I am currently part of the Graduate Student Experience Initiative committee (in a section focused on TA training).

Candidate Statement

I would be happy to return to serve another term (after having served in the past) and feel my experience both in this role and as a faculty member will be valuable. In my position as research faculty, I am actively involved in both biological research and also have extensive teaching experience including large undergraduate courses, smaller CURE courses, and graduate courses.

I think that faculty governance should continue to highlight the need for improvements in faculty welfare (salaries, benefits, etc.) to the administration and state governing bodies. Continued efforts should be made to improve the stability and predictability of non-tenure track faculty appointments. It is important to continue to advocate for improved inclusiveness at UNC, allowing all to feel welcome and contribute to our community.