Adjunct Faculty FAQs
Welcome to St. Catherine University!
We are delighted to have you as an integral part of our community. As an adjunct faculty member, your contribution is vital to the education and growth of our students. This list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) is designed to provide you with the resources and support you need. Whether you're preparing your courses, exploring professional development opportunities, or assisting your students, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Quick Links
Click on one of these four buttons to be redirected to the aligning area on the St. Kate's website or see the list of FAQs below for answers to specific questions.
campus access & General Information
- How do I access my university ID, employee number, and St. Kate’s email?
Instructions for accessing your university ID and setting up your St. Kate’s email will be provided at the time of hire. Contact Human Resources if you have questions during the hiring process. Once you have received your login credentials, you can access your email, Canvas, and ServiceNow via the St. Kate's Faculty and Staff website.
To obtain your ID Badge, go to ServiceNow and click on "Request Services." Use the search term "key" or click on the "Campus/Building/Grounds" section to find the Key/Card Access link. You can pick up your ID badge from the Campus Public Safety Office in Coeur de Catherine (CDC), Room 103 on the 1st floor.
Your employee ID number can be found in many places, including your printed contract, in the initial email you received from HR, by calling Human Resources (651-690-6565), or by looking at your St. Kate's ID card.
- Who should I contact if I have questions about my contract?
This information is available through the Office of Human Resources.
- Where can I find information about campus events and activities?
Visit the Upcoming Events section to stay informed about campus events and activities.
- Is there an orientation program for new adjunct faculty?
Yes. We conduct an orientation program to introduce new adjunct faculty to the university’s policies, resources, and teaching tools. You can also request a faculty mentor to support you throughout your experience teaching at St. Kate’s. Visit the Teaching Hub to learn more or contact the teaching hub at teachinghub@stkate.edu.
- Where do I find information about Academic Calendars, Registration Schedules, and Final Exam Schedules?
This information is available through the Registrar’s Office.
- Is there a one-stop shop for a variety of resources to support faculty needs both in and outside the classroom?
Yes! This website provides numerous resources on all aspects of teaching at St. Kate's. The main menu above is separated into four categories: Teaching, Research & Scholarship, Faculty Governance, and Support & Human Resources. Select "ST. KATE'S FACULTY RESOURCE HUB" at the top of the page to navigate to the homepage.
Technology Resources
- Who should I contact if I need immediate IT support on campus or online?
For urgent IT support, contact the Help Desk at 651-690-6402 (answered 24/7) or helpdesk@stkate.edu.
- Who should I contact if I am having problems accessing my Canvas course?
Contact the Help Desk or submit a help ticket via ServiceNow.
- How can I access training on Canvas and course design?
Visit the Teaching with Technology Canvas page to learn more about Canvas and available training.
Student Support and Concerns
- What should I do if I have a concern about a student?
You can report any type of student concern through our designated channel. If you are concerned about the physical safety of a student, contact Public Safety.
- What should I do if I have concerns about a student’s attendance or academic work?
Start with a clear attendance policy on your syllabus, reach out to the student, and contact your department chair if needed. Review the university's attendance policies.
- How do I refer a student to tutoring and learning services?
Students can contact the Tutoring and Learning Center at 651-690-7727 or via email at tutoring@stkate.edu.
- Who should I contact if I have a question about student accommodations?
Contact the Student Accessibility and Accommodations office for assistance.
- How do I refer a student to counseling, health, and wellness services?
Refer students to the Health and Wellness Center.
- How do I direct students, particularly student parents, who express basic needs such as access to food or housing?
Direct them to Access and Success for assistance.
- How should I handle academic dishonesty issues?
Refer to the university’s academic dishonesty policy and report the incident to your department chair.
- Are there additional resources for supporting students?
Yes! Please visit the Supporting Students page for information on health, technical, and financial support, along with information about accessibility and accommodations, academic advising, and many other ways St. Kate's provides support to students.
Student Advising
- Where should I direct students with questions about course schedules and course registration?
Refer them to Academic Advising.
- Is there a place where adjuncts can meet with students in private?
Yes. Course preparation and private meeting spaces are available and can be reserved on campus.
- How should I handle office hours as an adjunct faculty member?
Adjunct faculty are encouraged to schedule time to meet with students outside of class. Time can be scheduled in person or virtually, depending on your availability and student needs.
Campus Public Safety and Security
- What should I do in case of an emergency or safety concern on campus?
Report safety concerns to the campus Public Safety office.
- Who should I contact if my campus ID is not working and I cannot access buildings on campus?
Contact Public Safety at 651-690-8888 for immediate assistance.
Professional Development
- What kind of professional development opportunities are available for adjuncts?
The Teaching Hub offers mentoring workshops, training sessions, and access to online resources to foster pedagogical innovation and student success. For general inquiries, contact the Teching Hub at teachinghub@stkate.edu.
- How will my performance as an adjunct faculty member be evaluated?
Your performance is primarily evaluated through student feedback, which includes both quantitative scores and qualitative comments. These evaluations are conducted at the end of each course and provide insights into your teaching effectiveness, student engagement, and course delivery. The feedback you receive will help you understand your strengths and identify areas for improvement.
- How can I learn more about using AI in my teaching?
Visit the Generative AI page to learn more.
Course Management
- Who is my primary contact for questions related to developing my syllabus and course management?
The department chair or a faculty mentor will be available for you throughout your teaching experience. If you are not receiving the support you need, visit the Teaching Hub or contact them via email at teachinghub@stkate.edu.
- Where do I find St. Kate's syllabus resources and the University Syllabus Template and Guidelines?
Visit the Syllabus Information section of the Faculty Resource Hub for resources to assist you in developing course syllabi that meet the expectations of our accreditors.
- How do I submit mid-term and final grades?
Grades are submitted through the university’s online grading portal.
- What is the procedure for reporting student absences?
Report student absences through the university’s online attendance system. Ensure you’re following the attendance policy outlined in your syllabus.
- What should I do if I need to cancel a class?
If you need to cancel a class, notify students as early as possible via email or Canvas. Also, inform the department office so they can manage classroom logistics. Consider providing an alternative assignment or online activity.
- What library resources are available to adjunct faculty?
Adjunct faculty have full access to our online databases, journals, and other library resources. Visit our Library Access page for more information.
- How do I get help with an aspect of my teaching?
Select the Teaching dropdown menu above and select the area in which you need support. If you are unable to find the answer you are seeking, contact your department chair.
- Does St. Kate's have policies and resources on generative AI?
Yes. Visit the Generative AI page for more information.
Communication and Campus Support
- Where can I park on campus and do I need a parking permit?
Parking permits are required on campus. Please visit the Student, Faculty, & Staff Parking Information page for details about required permits and available parking.
- How do I reserve a classroom or meeting space?
For on-campus courses, a classroom will be assigned to you. Additional meeting spaces can be reserved on campus as needed.
- Who should I contact if I need help with administrative tasks?
For administrative support, contact your department’s administrative assistant or coordinator.
- How can I stay informed about important university updates?
Regular updates are communicated via email. All adjunct faculty will immediately get access to university updates. Otherwise, contact your department chair.