The recently released NCFDD State of Faculty Development Report 2026 paints a picture of a profession at a critical crossroads. In the section "Faculty Development in Flux," the report details a 36-point gap between what faculty value and what institutions currently fund.
According to the findings, over 70% of faculty report a decrease in institutional funding for professional development, even as they rate the importance of that development higher than ever. This creates a "structural tension" where the demand for support—particularly in well-being, writing productivity, and leadership—is rising just as the resources are being pulled back.
Key Insights for CTL Leaders and Academic Developers:
- The Rise of Informal Scaffolding: 64% of faculty now rely on peer or social networks for professional support, while only 30% rely on institution-wide networks. Faculty are essentially building their own scaffolding to survive.
- From Enrichment to Infrastructure: The report argues that faculty development has shifted from being an optional perk to essential infrastructure. When these supports are cut, it directly impacts research output, teaching quality, and retention.
- The "Constant Triage" State: Open-ended responses describe a faculty body operating in a state of triage, where everything feels urgent and nothing feels sustainable.
For those leading CTLs and academic development, this data suggests the role is no longer just about offering workshops; it is about managing the institutional strain and advocating for development as a core stabilizer for the entire university.
Read the Full Report: 2026 State of Faculty Development (NCFDD)
