Dion Forster is a Full Professor at the School of Religion and Theology and talks briefly about his experience with the “Slowing Down, Narratives & Connecting” retreat at the VU Centre for Teaching & Learning.
A Setting That Invites Reflection
Participating in the “Slowing Down, Narratives & Connecting” retreat at Monastery ZIN was a deeply meaningful experience. The setting itself invites contemplation – nestled in nature, beautifully appointed, and clearly designed to encourage meaningful reflection and intentional presence. I was grateful to be invited, and particularly valued the opportunity to meet and engage with fellow professors from across the VU, each at a similar stage in their academic journeys. The size of the group was just right: intimate enough to foster honest connection, yet diverse enough to offer multiple perspectives and insights.
Space to Re-centre and Reflect
What stood out most for me was the chance to slow down and re-centre my academic and personal intentions at this stage in my life and career. In one small group exercise, we reflected on our evolving roles as professors – not just in terms of institutional expectation, but also from the perspective of personal vocation, societal needs and pressures, and our broader social lives. These facilitated reflections and conversations helped me to name both my hopes and pressures, and to begin to imagine and plan the next phase of my work with more clarity and purpose. It reminded me that intentional, well-held spaces for reflection are not a luxury but a necessity for sustainable and meaningful academic service and leadership. I can give my best to our colleagues, students, and society, when I am at my best.
A Meaningful Opportunity for Growth
I wholeheartedly recommend this retreat to colleagues, whether newly appointed professors or further along in their careers who may be facing some pressure or changes in their roles. It offers rare and valuable time to reflect in community, to be guided with care by skilled facilitators, and to discover skills, strategies, and new energy for the complex and often demanding work we are privileged to do. It addresses a gap in support at this level in the academy with impressive nuance and sensitivity. The facilitators from the Centre for Teaching and Learning have expertise, experience, and great skill in both the technical and the more reflective elements required to help professors to grow, learn, and find new insights for their work and service.
A Note to Future Participants
To future participants, I would say, come prepared to be present, open to share, and willing to grow. Leave room in your diary, bring your walking shoes (if you enjoy a good walk in a beautiful setting!), and allow yourself to share honestly in the process. You may well leave not only refreshed, but with a renewed sense of purpose and connection — to yourself, your colleagues, and the privilege of our academic vocation.
Interested in this programme as well?
Visit the Slowing Down, Narratives & Connecting webpage.
