Senator Spotlight November 2022

Category

Name: Chad Westover

What unit do you represent?  

I represent Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering on the Polytechnic Campus.

How many years have you served in the Senate?

I am just starting my second year.

How many years have you been employed at ASU?

This Fall semester was the start of my 8th year teaching at ASU. Prior to that, I worked in the ERM program as a Research Assistant and, earlier still, was an ASU approved vendor doing contract photography work for the university.

What other institutions have you taught at before coming to ASU?

Prior to coming to ASU, I worked for the University of Arizona as photographer in the College of Medicine as well as a medical photographer for what is now the Banner University Medical Center. ASU is my first teaching appointment and I’m a Sun Devil through and through.  

What is your research and/or creative activities focus?  

I am very interested in fields that involve creative imaging. Technical Photography, VR video, high speed video, thermal imaging, as well as more traditional photography are all among the topics that regularly take up space inside my head. I can be found on the sidelines of most home games with a camera and a couple of students.

Why did you decide to get involved with the Senate?

Susan Squire’s tenure in the Senate was ending and she was retiring and highly recommended taking part in the Senate. She spoke highly of the experience and of the way it allows faculty to have more of an active role in the university outside of the classroom.

Describe what you have learned (or hope to learn) during your time in the Senate?

Being in the Senate, especially in committees, has been eye opening for me. I’ve learned about the processes and systems for resolving problems and for getting things done.

What committees have you participated in, or would like to participate in and what were you able to (or hope to) accomplish? 

I am a member of the Digitally Enhanced Teaching and Learning Ad Hoc Committee and Student-Faculty Policy Committee. In both cases, our committees are examining issues that directly affect students and I’m excited to see how things progress.

What would you say to your peers who might be considering accepting a nomination or nominating himself or herself for a position in the University Senate?

Participating in the Senate is fulfilling and educational. I highly encourage anyone considering accepting a nomination to do so. I will provide opportunities that are not available otherwise and gives additional avenues, in just a tiny little way, to help steer the ship.