Funding Guidelines
Please read prior to starting your application. Ensure that you review the scoring rubric and understand how your application will be reviewed.
Start your search for professional development early as it could take up to 30 days for approvals.
PURPOSE. Professional Development funding is available to all Lone Star College-University Park faculty and staff. Approval of travel and/or attendance in an event is required prior to submitting this application. Approval of the applicant's supervising Director, Associate Dean, Dean, or Executive Team member is required prior to consideration for funding.
FUNDS. Professional Development funds are allocated on an annual basis and exist to provide opportunities to enrich your professional development in support of student success and completion. To be considered for funding, this application must be submitted along with all supporting documentation. Applications are due at least one month prior to the event. Funding is based on an established budget and limited to available funds; submission of application is not a guarantee of funding.
FUNDING LIMITATIONS. International travel, in-district meals, and in-district lodging is generally not allowed. Exceptions to this rule requires prior approval by the President and Chancellor. Written pre-approval should be submitted as a supplemental document to your application. Funding for events occurring in the next fiscal year are limited to items that can be paid for immediately (registration fees, airfare, deposits, etc.).
AUTHORIZED EXPENSES. Professional Development funds can be used to pay for registration fees, transportation, personal mileage, meals, hotel fees, and other LSC-approved expenses. Employees are responsible for any cost greater than the awarded amount.
BEFORE YOUR EVENT. When awarded funds, unless otherwise directed, you must complete the EPR process as well as your travel authorization(s) in iStar to secure funding.
AFTER YOUR EVENT. Upon return, you must reconcile expenses in iStar within 10 business days. By accepting funding, you agree to present on your learning experience at a faculty/staff meeting negotiated with your supervisor. Additionally, you agree to share your experience formally through the Office of Professional Development in a roundtable session, video blog, blog, or other agreed-upon method.
When in doubt, please ask! Questions can be directed to ProDevUP@LoneStar.edu.
Before you get started with your application, review the scoring rubric to understand how to complete your application fully.