The Faculty Development Board has five principal objectives:
- The improvement of teaching (New Course Grants, Course Revision Grants, and Faculty Aides)
- Assisting faculty members to deepen and broaden competence in their chosen field and their contributions to the Academic community (Professional Enrichment Grants)
- The redirection of faculty moving to another department or out of academe (Redirection Grant)
- The extension of a tenured faculty member's education where such a pursuit will lead to professional growth that enhances departmental offerings and the academic strength of the University (Faculty Growth Projects)
- Recognition and support of worthy teachers and their work (The Edith B. and Frank C. Matthies Award)