Professional Development Fund

The Professional Development Fund was established in the fall of 2003 in response to a proposal by the Faculty Compensation Committee. The Fund offers limited financial subsidies for spouses and partners of College faculty and administrative staff to engage in job-related education, training, or professional development. The purpose of the Fund is to help individuals acquire new skills and qualifications that will ultimately increase their prospects for finding meaningful employment in the region.

The Fund is managed through the Office of Spouse/Partner Employment Counseling and supported by a committee made up of the Associate Dean of the Faculty, the Associate Director of Human Resources, a representative from the Faculty Compensation Committee, a representative of the Staff Council, and the Director of Career Counseling. Annual reports are made to Staff Council and the Faculty Compensation Committee.

Awards granted through the Fund will be considered a taxable benefit.

Application Timeline

Proposals will be evaluated by the Professional Development Fund Committee on a rolling basis. To ensure the timely distribution of funds, applications should be submitted at least six weeks prior to the start of the funded activity.

Eligibility

The Fund is available to spouses and partners of Williams College faculty and administrative staff. In the event of excess demand, priority will be given to spouses and partners who are still establishing occupational roots in the area.

Financial subsidies may not exceed $5,000 per individual. Funds may be used to defray the costs of career-related training and education. Courses taken solely for the purpose of personal enrichment are not eligible for the Fund. Travel and lodging expenses will be funded only in special circumstances.

Application Procedure

The following application materials must be submitted to:

Williams College
Spouse/Partner Employment Counselor
66 Stetson Court
Williamstown, MA 01267

A brief narrative describing specifically how the proposed activity relates to your short- and long-term career objectives and how the acquisition of new skills and qualifications would enhance your ability to intersect with regional employers (not to exceed 500 words)
An updated resume or curriculum vitae that includes relevant contact information
Financial documentation confirming tuition and/or expenses