Karen Plaut – August Dimensions of Discovery Introduction

Dear Colleagues,

Through our work, we all strive to make a positive and lasting impact on students, our fields of expertise and the world. Each edition of Dimensions of Discovery contains numerous examples of Purdue faculty doing exactly this. In this edition, I also want to briefly highlight the role of authoring academic books as another means of achieving this goal.

Alongside scholarly papers and conference presentations, academic books offer a chance to extend the impact of our scholarship. Through books, we can present vast, diverse scholarly work, delve deeply into complex ideas, help students grasp key concepts and theories, and discuss implications. Academic books also draw attention to our research or academic programs and shape thinking within a field of discipline.

Books authored by our faculty also bolster Purdue’s reputation as a premier institution for teaching, research and engagement. They may open the door to new collaborations and attract future students and faculty.

Purdue offers various forms of support for faculty authors. For example, the Office of Research and several colleges recently renewed a competitive grant program for book writing offering seed funding for faculty authors. Also, Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies can provide valuable book writing assistance as highlighted on its publishing opportunities webpage.

I encourage faculty members to consider authoring books. Writing books can be a highly rewarding professional and personal experience that also leaves a legacy.

Thank you for your dedication and your contributions to Purdue’s mission.

Best regards,

Karen Plaut
Executive Vice President for Research