In this article, we discuss the importance of theory driven program development and present the empowerment framework using two case studies at a center for teaching and learning (CTL). We describe the empowerment framework, offer programmatic examples aligned with this framework, and make specific recommendations for those wishing to pursue this approach to faculty development programming. Our objective is to demonstrate both the importance of incorporating guiding theory in program development, and the resulting satisfaction of using the empowerment framework specifically for both organizers and participants."