Community Expectations Philosophy

Taubman College’s community expectations provide a shared language and framework for integrity, growth, respect, communication, and collaboration. They establish a mutually agreed upon way in which we act, communicate, and conduct ourselves with our colleagues. We commit to these principles to foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture, recognizing varied backgrounds and work approaches.

Core Expectations 

1. Integrity: Deliver work with integrity, accountability, and responsibility to our colleagues, and to our stakeholders (students, faculty, staff, alumni, and donors) while acting with honesty, confidentiality, and reliability to build trust and honor university policies.
   1. Supervisor Guidance: Model ethical behavior and hold teams accountable to shared standards.
2. Growth Mindset: Pursue continuous improvement and adaptability. Share new ideas, embrace innovation, and view feedback and setbacks as learning opportunities. Keep professional skills up-to-date and encourage developmental opportunities.
   1. Supervisor Guidance: Foster environments where staff can learn, grow, and try new things. Provide access to training, celebrate learning, and offer regular constructive feedback.
3. Respect: Value diverse perspectives and assume positive intent. Honor others’ time and contributions, listen attentively, and acknowledge achievements. Be self-aware and reduce unconscious biases. Treat all members of the community with fairness and professionalism.
   1. Supervisor Guidance: Promote inclusion and work-life balance. Recognize efforts and foster mutual respect.
4. Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively in all settings. Listen actively, ask questions, and keep stakeholders informed. Share preferences and adjust communication styles appropriately. Demonstrate diplomacy and kindness, especially during challenging interactions.
   1. Supervisor Guidance: Give direct, compassionate feedback. Facilitate inclusive meetings. Set clear expectations, promote transparency, and tailor communication channels to team needs.
5. Collaboration: Work intentionally with others towards common goals, inviting diverse skills and perspectives. Share resources, support colleagues, and participate fully in team projects.
   1. Supervisor Guidance: Enable collaboration through shared processes, celebrate teamwork, and recognize both individual and collective accomplishments. Clarify each role’s impact on the broader community.

Upholding these five community expectations—integrity, development, respect, communication, and collaboration—strengthens our shared culture and supports our mission to foster innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. By committing to these principles, we empower ourselves and each other to thrive and advance the collective goals of our community. If you have any questions regarding these expectations, please reach out to Taubman College HR at taubmancollegehr@umich.edu.