Faculty development in the new millennium: key challenges and future directions

Faculty development initiatives in the year 2000 will need to respond to ch anges in medical education and health rare delivery, to build on the achiev ements and accomplishments of the past, and to continue to adapt to the evo lving roles of faculty members. To remain at the forefront, faculty develop ment programs will need to broaden their focus, consider diverse training m ethods and formats, conduct more rigorous program evaluations, and foster n ew partnerships and collaborations. Academic vitality is dependent upon fac ulty members' interest and expertise; faculty development has a critical ro le to play, in promoting academic excellence and innovation.