The PROPEL Project provides funding, support and coaching to managers and administrators who would like to enhance their professional skills, contribute to their fields and demonstrate leadership within the University community. This program focuses on funding active participation in professional conferences, with an emphasis on coaching support to help employees maximize their conference participation for career and professional growth.
At-will managers and administrators who are not otherwise affiliated with any of the institution’s collective bargaining agreements are eligible to apply.
To learn more about The PROPEL Project, register below for an upcoming Information Session:
- Tuesday, Jan 14th: 1-2pm
- Thursday, Jan. 16th: 10-11am
- Tuesday, Jan. 21th: 1-2pm
- Thursday, Jan. 23th: 10-11am
Our Guiding Principle
We are committed to propelling your career to the next level by investing in your growth and success!
The University recognizes that the dedication and professional growth of all its employees,
including managers, are integral to the institution’s success. Investing in the skills, knowledge, and personal development of Montclair employees not only enhances individual capabilities but also strengthens the University as a whole.
Objectives of the Project
- Career growth through an individualized professional coaching framework
- Provide resources, funding and opportunities toward professional growth
- Encourage active engagement and visibility in relevant professional conferences
- Cultivate a culture of leadership excellence
- Elevate Montclair’s public and professional reputation
Why Should I Participate?
Develop professionally at Montclair while continuously learning through:
- Conference Participation
- Showcase your expertise
- Learn from others
- Contribute to the advancement of your respective fields
- Leadership Enhancements
- Foster the ability to inspire & motivate
- Guide others within the University community
- Brand Amplification
- Participate & present ideas + best practices
- Amplify Montclair’s visibility & reputation within your respective fields
- Position Montclair as a leader in higher education
- Employee Growth
- Impact employee morale in a positive way
- Demonstrate Montclair’s commitment to employee personal & professional well-being
- Cultivate a sense of value, appreciation & motivation within the Montclair’s workforce
Program Components
- Application & Selection Process
- A selection committee reviews each application and awards PROPEL grants based on the merit of the potential impact on the individual’s career growth and contributions to Montclair.
- Conference Funding Support
- Financial assistance provided to eligible managers who apply for a PROPEL grant will cover registration fees, travel, accommodation and other related costs.
- Professional Development & Coaching Support
- All participants will have access to coaching offered by Erika Bush, Director of Learning Development and Tom Dowd, Special Advisor for Professional Engagement. This coaching will focus on enhancing presentation skills, building your personal brand and maximizing conference participation for career growth.
- Participant Frequency
- Eligible employees can attend up to two (2) professional development conferences or activities per fiscal year.
Examples of Professional Activities
The following work-related activities are eligible for reimbursement under The PROPEL Project:
- In-person conference
- Professional development event or webinar
* NOTE: You may opt to work with a Consultant/Coach who will focus on enhancing your individual productivity, representation of Montclair and overall well-being.
FAQs
I would like to attend a conference, but I am not sure which one to attend. Can someone help me identify a conference that may best suit my professional needs?
- Absolutely! If you are seeking assistance selecting a conference, please reach out to Tom Dowd, Special Advisor for Professional Engagement, at dowdt@601951.com.
May I apply for funding if I am still waiting for the Conference Administration to approve my presentation proposal?
- Yes. We encourage you to apply for a PROPEL grant even if you are in the process of awaiting approval to present.
How long will it take to receive a status update for my PROPEL grant application?
- Applications will be processed within two weeks and status updates will be sent via email.
How do I receive the funding once I am approved?
- Once approved, you will create a spend authorization using a specific cost center number that will be provided to you.
My department offers funding for professional development opportunities. May I apply for a PROPEL grant to subsidize my conference and travel costs?
- Yes. If your department has a budget for Professional Development and Conference Attendance, you may apply for a PROPEL grant with the intention of subsidizing the amount you’re receiving from your department.
Am I required to engage in Professional Coaching with Erika Bush, Director of Learning & Development and Tom Dowd, Special Advisor for Professional Engagement, if I am not interested in that particular PROPEL resource?
- While professional coaching is a unique aspect of this project, which we strongly encourage, participants are not required to take advantage of the coaching support provided.
How much funding is available per applicant through The PROPEL Project?
- Applicants may receive up to $2,500 in PROPEL grant money to cover eligible activities under The PROPEL Project.
What does it mean to “actively” participate in a conference?
- Active participation includes attending a conference with the intention of enhancing your role within the University community, presenting at a conference or serving on a steering committee and/or panel.
Propel Your Career to the Next Level
Follow the steps below to get started.
To qualify for PROPEL funding, you must either present or actively participate in a professional conference relevant to your field of expertise. If your professional activity plans are not yet finalized -or- if you are still in the process of deciding, we encourage you to apply. Instructions will be provided in the application.
Apply for a PROPEL grant and be prepared to explain the anticipated benefits to your professional development and Montclair State University.
PROPEL grants will be awarded based on the merit of the proposed activities and potential impact on the individual’s career growth. Full or partial funding will be granted based on the quality of the application submitted.