Importance of the Review Process

The Collaborative Review process is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within our community, as well as for strengthening the collaborative relationships that exist across campus. When staff members engage in meaningful discussions about their achievements, position-specific goals, and professional development aspirations, it not only enhances individual growth but also enriches the overall workplace environment.

While conversations about accomplishments and job performance should occur routinely throughout the year, providing a structured opportunity for these conversations is key to building strong working relationships between staff members and their supervisors. It encourages open communication and mutual understanding, allowing both parties to align their expectations and support each other’s professional journeys.

As we engage in this process, it's essential to approach it with thoughtfulness and care. Completing and submitting all reviews to HR within the specified timeline is crucial, as it ensures that everyone is recognized for their contributions and receives the guidance they need to thrive. By prioritizing this process, we can create a more connected, supportive, and productive campus community.

2025 Timeline Overview

  • Kick-off: March 3, 2025

  • Final Submission to HR: no later than May 30, 2025

Please note the suggested timeline: 

  • Staff Member Complete Sections 1 & 2: by March 15, 2025

  • Supervisors Complete Sections 2 & 3: by May 1, 2025

  • Staff-Supervisor Meetings: by May 15, 2025

  • Additional Reviews and Signatures: by May 30, 2025

Key features of the updated review form

For 2025, the review form has undergone several important revisions to enhance its effectiveness. While the overall steps of the review process remain the same, we have made slight adjustments to the language of certain questions and introduced a few new ones. Here’s a brief overview of the updates:

  • Unified Form for All Staff Members: There is now a single review form applicable to all staff, streamlining the process and ensuring consistency across departments.

    • Two completion methods are available through online and printable pdf. (see below)

  • Section 1: Staff Member’s Narrative and Summary: This section allows the staff member to reflect on their experiences, achievements, and contributions over the review period.
  • Section 2: Assessment: 
    • First: This portion is to be completed by the staff member, encouraging self-reflection and personal assessment. 
    • Second: The supervisor will then complete their assessment, providing insights and feedback on the staff member's performance. 
    • Assessment definitions are provided to clarify how to evaluate the criteria effectively.  
  • Section 3: Supervisor’s Narrative: This section gives supervisors the opportunity to provide a detailed narrative of the staff member's performance, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

  • Section 4: Staff Member and Supervisor:

    • A) Review Meeting: After the review meeting, both parties may add additional comments to capture the discussion accurately.

    • B) Professional Development: This new section compiles a summary of staff priorities for professional development, which will be instrumental in shaping the University’s operational plan moving forward.

important final steps

Once all sections are complete, both the staff member and supervisor must sign the form. Please note that depending on your division’s structure, additional signatures may be required.

Review form submission

It is crucial to remember that the collaborative review process is not considered complete until a signed copy of the form is submitted to HR at jewelch@sewanee.edu.

2025 Forms