DEI Professional Development Fund Information Overview: this form serves as a prescreening process to assist staff in gauging their eligibility for funding. Once this form is completed and the applicant is eligible, an application will be sent to complete the process. The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Professional Development Fund is designed to support staff in participating in DEI professional development and career advancement opportunities. Its purpose is to enhance UTA’s welcoming, engaging, and inclusive environment, educate employees on how to foster and support DEI principles in the workplace, and retain talented staff by supporting career development and upward mobility. The DEI Application will cover amounts not covered by the applicant’s department up to $2,000. The DEI Application must be submitted no less than 60 days prior to the event. Applicants must meet the Eligibility Criteria to receive funding. Note: This funding is not connected to the HR Tuition Assistance Program. Funds may be used for the following purposes: • Transportation • Lodging • Meals • Conferences, seminars, workshops, meetings, or symposiums (events) • Registration Funds may not be used for the following: • Salary payment • Stipend • Membership fees or dues • Organizational leadership Eligibility Criteria The applicant must do the following: • Provide the name of their department head, supervisor, dean, or vice president. • Submit the DEI Application no less than 60 days prior to the event. • Have at least 12 months at UTA in an exempt or non-exempt staff position, at .75% time or higher. • Be Staff Advisory Council eligible at a position below Manager level. • Have at least a ranking of “3” on their most recent annual performance review and provide a copy. • Complete the DEI Application and obtain a signature from their department head, supervisor, dean, or vice president. • Submit a cover letter detailing goals of the development opportunity and how participation in the event will benefit the recipient, their department, or UTA. • Submit a report summarizing knowledge gained and how key takeaways will be applied or utilized in their current role or future role at UTA. This report is due no later than one month after the period for which the funds were awarded and should not exceed two (2) pages.