Emotional Intelligence (EQ) for Faculty & Staff
As High Point University prepares for the launch of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) focused on Emotional Intelligence (EQ), the 2026–2027 academic year is anticipated to mark the beginning of a phased rollout of faculty‑ and staff‑related opportunities. These efforts are expected to support teaching, advising, mentoring, and campus leadership in ways that align with the broader goals of the QEP.
Building Foundational Awareness
During the early stages of implementation, faculty and staff will have opportunities to explore the role of EQ in student learning and campus culture. This could include introductory learning experiences designed to help educators and staff consider how emotional awareness, communication, and interpersonal skills might enrich their work with students and colleagues.
Grants & Emerging Opportunities
As QEP planning continues, HPU anticipates exploring a range of grant opportunities that may support faculty and staff interested in EQ‑aligned work. These possibilities include funding for research, teaching innovation, and program development connected to Emotional Intelligence. Specific grant pathways, such as those related to classroom practice, student‑faculty research, or emerging areas like AI and EQ, are expected to be refined as the QEP moves through approval and early implementation phases. Updates will be shared as these opportunities take shape.
Professional Development Pathways
As the QEP framework evolves, HPU expects to explore a range of professional development possibilitiessuch as workshops, discussion series, and speaker events centered on applying EQ‑informed approaches within academic and co‑curricular settings. These offerings will likely develop over time as campus units collaborate to plan next steps.
Opportunities for Deeper Engagement
The QEP steering committe plan outlines several potential avenues through which faculty and staff may eventually engage more deeply with EQ‑focused initiatives. These could include:
- Participating in exploratory training connected to EQ frameworks
- Contributing to early assessment or planning efforts
- Collaborating with campus partners to shape the long‑term vision for EQ development
These areas remain in planning and will be refined as approvals progress.
Future Collaborative Roles
The draft also references the possibility that select faculty and staff may support aspects of QEP implementation as it matures—for example, through participation in planning groups or exploratory coaching models designed to reinforce EQ skill building across campus. These ideas represent early considerations and will be shaped through ongoing review and decision‑making.
A Multi‑Year Rollout
Beginning in 2026–2027, the initial phase of the QEP is expected to focus on establishing shared understanding, clarifying needs, and preparing for longer‑term initiatives. Faculty and staff can expect periodic updates as elements of the plan progress through approval processes and move toward implementation.