UIF-1 Project Reviews

Purpose of the UIF: The University Initiatives Fund (UIF) is intended to enable the University to seize opportunities at the frontiers of knowledge and learning or to reshape existing programs to meet with the highest and best needs of the institution. The fund allows the University to invest in those initiatives that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries and to respond to broad institutional goals. The UIF program has supported a wide range of strategic initiatives that seek to advance the goals of the institution in tangible and measurable ways. All funded initiatives are expected to offer significant academic impact or provide substantially enhanced level of service to academic programs, enhance quality and excellence, and provide for the long-term significance and sustainability of their contributions.

Review committees: Review committees consist of two UW faculty and/or staff who are not directly involved in the project but are in closely related areas. Additionally, committees include one external reviewer who is judged to be a content expert. Since three reviewers can in no way be considered to represent all important stakeholder groups, the intention is that the reviewers will consult widely with key individuals and groups.

Charge to the review committees: Following their review of written annual progress reports and 1½ days of consultations, review committees will be asked to: (1) assess the project’s accomplishments in the context of their original intentions; (2) provide constructive feedback to project leaders; and (3) make a recommendation to the President and Provost regarding continuation of funding.

Dissemination of Review Committee Reports: All final reports will be available on the UIF website .

Comments and Questions: At any point in the process, feel free to direct comments and questions to Associate Provost Debra Friedman ( debraf@u.washington.edu, 543-6616).