Des Moines University is using a generous donation to create a new faculty development program aimed at enhancing teaching and research skills.
On Wednesday, the private medical university announced the start of the Dr. Robert and Brenda Good Faculty Development Academy. The initiative will support faculty growth in teaching, educational research, and leadership across campus.
“This is a bold, forward-looking initiative designed to support faculty throughout their professional growth,” said Nehad El-Sawi, DMU’s Assistant Vice President for Academic Innovation and Enhancement. “The academy offers peer consultations and workshops on important topics like artificial intelligence and preceptor development, creating a collaborative environment for academic excellence.”
The program will focus on six key areas: improving faculty onboarding, providing ongoing professional development, encouraging educational research, promoting campus collaboration, and enhancing teaching skills.
El-Sawi added that by investing in faculty, the university is investing in the future of health care.
The program is funded by a gift from Robert Good, a 1977 DMU graduate, and his wife, Brenda. The university did not disclose the gift amount, honoring the donors’ request.
The Goods emphasized the importance of well-trained faculty in giving students the best possible start. They believe this investment will benefit future health care professionals, including rural doctors, researchers, and therapists.
DMU President Angela Walker Franklin praised the donation, saying, “Their generosity will ripple through future generations and help prepare the health care heroes our world urgently needs. This is more than a gift; it’s a promise of hope and innovation. The entire DMU community is grateful to the Goods for believing in our mission and investing in its future.”
