In the bustling halls of the College of Arts & Sciences, on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, there are those whose commitment to student success goes above and beyond the call of duty. Among them is Dr. Bob DuBois, a distinguished member of the Psychology department at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Dr. Bob stands out as a beacon of support and guidance for students navigating their professional paths. Thanks to his tireless advocacy for career development and collaborative spirit he is this year’s Campus Career Champion.
Nominated by Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration (CCDAE) Career Coach Diondre Brown, Dr. Bob’s commitment to empowering students and his collaborative approach exemplifies the spirit of career development and professional growth at UT Knoxville.
According to Brown, Dr. Bob’s efforts greatly benefit individual students but also contribute to the overall enhancement of career-related initiatives across campus. As we celebrate his recognition as this year’s Campus Career Champion, it’s essential to acknowledge the profound impact faculty members have on students’ career development.
Through their tireless advocacy, collaborative spirit, and dedication to empowering students, faculty members like Dr. Bob not only enhance individual career prospects but also contribute to the overall enrichment of campus-wide career initiatives.
Their commitment inspires us to champion career development and professional growth, ensuring that every student has the resources and support needed to thrive in their chosen field.
Advocacy and Support for CCCDAE
Dr. Bob’s recognition of the Career Center’s pivotal role in shaping students’ futures underscores his unwavering commitment to their success. He actively champions its resources and services, ensuring that students have access to the tools and guidance necessary to thrive in their professional endeavors.
Through his advocacy, Dr. Bob ensures that the Career Center remains a cornerstone of support for students as they navigate their career paths.
Empowering Student Referrals
Understanding the significance of personalized career guidance, Dr. Bob actively encourages students to utilize the Career Center’s wealth of resources. By directing students to this invaluable support system, he empowers them to explore their interests, set ambitious career goals, and chart a course for success.
Dr. Bob’s proactive approach ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions about their future careers.
Fostering Collaborative Engagement
Dr. Bob’s commitment to career development extends beyond his own pursuits; he actively fosters a culture of mentorship and guidance within the Psychology department. Through collaborative initiatives, he encourages fellow faculty members to engage in discussions on career development, enriching the academic experience for students.
By opening his classroom doors to colleagues and embracing diverse perspectives, Dr. Bob ensures that students receive comprehensive insights into both academic pursuits and practical career preparation.
Career Advocates Training
The Career Center’s Career Advocates training is a vital initiative designed to equip faculty and staff with the tools and knowledge necessary to engage in meaningful career conversations with students.
By participating in this training, educators not only enhance their own confidence in addressing career-related topics but also gain a deeper understanding of the comprehensive services offered by the center. Through specialized sessions and hands-on exercises, participants learn effective strategies for guiding students through various stages of career exploration, from identifying interests to navigating job search processes.
CCDAE Executive Director Stephanie Kit rightly emphasizes the profound impact that faculty members wield in shaping students’ career development journeys. Their influence extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, as they serve as mentors, advisors, and role models for aspiring professionals.
By leveraging their expertise and connections, faculty members can provide invaluable insights, guidance, and support to help students navigate the complexities of the job market and make informed decisions about their future careers.
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Dr. Bob is a first-generation college graduate and earned his Ph.D. in Educational Psychology at Marquette University in 2013. Dr. Bob joined UT in 2019 after serving as a full-time instructor at Waukesha County Technical College in Wisconsin for 11 years. He is an advocate for suicide prevention and a frequent presenter on topics related to teaching and learning.
Learn more about Dr. Bob’s popular Lifelong Learning workshops at tiny.utk.edu/aceyourclasses.
Dr. Bob is the third member of the Volunteer community to be recognized as a Campus Career Champion. Lisa Parker, a distinguished lecturer of Hispanic Studies and director of the Language and World Business Program in the College of Arts & Sciences, was the first in November 2021, while Dr. Michael Camponovo, director of UT’s GIS Outreach & Engagement Laboratory was the second in May 2023.
Campus Career Champions exemplify UT’s Strategic Vision, specifically Goal One of Cultivating the Volunteer Experience, by promoting career readiness in and outside the classroom.