The Elm

In today’s academic and health professions environments, success increasingly depends on how well we navigate complexity, uncertainty, and role strain — not just on an individual’s expertise or effort. Professional Development Coaching provides confidential, individualized support that functions as professional infrastructure, helping faculty, staff, and trainees sustain effectiveness and well-being over time.

Offered through the Office of the Provost, Professional Development Coaching is a free resource available to UMB faculty, with additional openings this year for residents, fellows, and staff. Coaching provides a structured, one-on-one partnership with a trained coach who understands the unique demands and culture of academic and health professions environments.

Through coaching, participants clarify professional goals, identify barriers, and develop practical strategies for moving forward — whether related to leadership, productivity, career direction, communication, work-life integration, or managing ongoing change. Coaching is not remedial; it is a proactive form of professional development designed to support growth, resilience, and effectiveness over time. Many participants describe it as similar to executive coaching, tailored specifically to the realities of academia.

Coaching sessions are confidential, conducted virtually, and offered at no cost to participants. If you are interested in learning more about Professional Development Coaching, hearing what colleagues have said about their experiences, or requesting a coach, please visit our website.

For questions about this service, please email Dr. Michelle Pearce at michelle.pearce@umaryland.edu.