Assistant Professor – Communication Arts – Narrative Art History – Media Studies

Virginia Commonwealth University   Richmond, VA   Full-time     Education
Posted on April 17, 2024
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Assistant Professor – Communication Arts – Narrative Art History – Media Studies

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts (VCUarts)
Department of Communication Arts

This full-time, 9-month position is at the rank of Assistant Professor, is non-tenure eligible (term), and begins August 16, 2024.

Review of applications begins January 22, 2024 and continues until the position is filled. For best consideration, applications are due by January 22, 2024.

The Opportunity:

The Department of Communication Arts at VCUarts is seeking a dynamic and passionate individual to teach the department's required lecture courses, "The History of Visual Communications 1 and 2" and other courses that align with the faculty member's area(s) of expertise. The “History of Visual Communications” is a lecture-based course that provides a broad survey of the history of art and world historical events, with a particular focus on its relationship to representational and narrative art, up through and including cinema and games. The successful candidate will also explore historical and contemporary technologies that have augmented the arts, enriching the student learning experience.

This position is a 9-month non-tenure eligible (term) faculty position with an academic rank of Assistant Professor. The primary responsibility of this opportunity is teaching, so we seek to hire faculty who stand out with respect to effectiveness in teaching and engagement with students. Term faculty are eligible for promotion in academic rank, and are valued for their academic, professional, and creative practice/scholarly contributions in their specific area of expertise.

Key Responsibilities:

· Deliver engaging and informative lectures to all students in the program as part of "The History of Visual Communications 1 and 2" courses, as well as other courses that align with the department's curriculum and student needs.
· Develop a curriculum that covers the broader history of art and world history with a particular emphasis on representational and narrative art forms.
· Teach students about the impact of historical and contemporary technologies on the arts.
· Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and active participation.
· Evaluate and provide constructive feedback to students on their assignments and examinations.
· Maintain regular office hours to provide guidance and support to students outside of the classroom.
· Collaborate with colleagues to enhance the overall academic experience within the Department of Communication Arts.
· Provide service to support student, department, and school-wide initiatives; supporting recruitment activities; fostering community engagement opportunities; and serving on department/School/University committees.

Creative research is not a primary expectation for this non-tenure eligible position. The faculty member is expected to demonstrate excellence through teaching and maintain a scholarly body of knowledge within the discipline. The department will support the faculty member's professional development, as appropriate and within available resources, to ensure ongoing mastery of the discipline as it relates to the program's curriculum. Professional development activities will be consistent with and support the mission and initiatives of the department, school, and university. The department will also support creative research at an appropriate annual level, though teaching will constitute the majority of the faculty member's responsibilities.

Qualifications:

· A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Art History, Media Studies or a related field is preferable. Consideration will be given for a combination of professional training, experience, and education that equates to a terminal degree.
· Previous teaching experience, preferably at the college or university level, is highly desirable.
· Expertise in the history of art, with a focus on representational and narrative art, is essential.
· Knowledge of historical and contemporary technologies that have influenced the arts is a significant asset.
· Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage and inspire students.
· Experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment, or commitment to do so as a faculty member at VCU.
· A commitment to fostering student growth, critical thinking, and academic success.

Application Instructions:

Virginia Commonwealth University is committed to organizational diversity, equity and inclusion – an environment where all can thrive in their pursuit of excellence. VCUarts strongly encourages applications from all racial, ethnic, gender, and social identities.

Applicants are requested to submit a Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (typically between 150-300 words) providing your career aspirations and contributions toward promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through this statement, you can share how your lived experiences, and academic and professional activities will impact your contribution to VCU's mission of promoting equity and inclusion.

Note: Examples include working with others to further the goals of equity and inclusion; leading in any capacity that tangibly promotes an environment where diversity is welcomed, fostered, and celebrated; creative activity, research and scholarship that promotes equity and parity; teaching and mentoring students, and/or engaging with faculty and/or staff from traditionally underrepresented groups to create a positive and successful organizational experience. For additional guidance on writing a Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: https://provost.vcu.edu/media/provost-2018/documents/VCUGuidelinesforWritingaStatementofContributionstoDiversity-Revised2021.pdf

To apply, please submit application materials via VCU Jobs Website at https://vcu.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home?c=vcu. Only electronic applications will be accepted.

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

· A cover letter detailing their interest in the position and relevant qualifications.
· Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (see details above).
· A current curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting educational and professional experience.
· A teaching statement that outlines their approach to teaching art history.
· Contact information for at least three professional references (references will not be contacted prior to applicant's approval).
· Samples of course materials or syllabi, if available.

Review of applications begins January 22, 2024 and continues until the position is filled. For best consideration, applications are due by January 22, 2024.

Virginia Commonwealth University is committed to providing accessible and equitable living, learning and working environments free from discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), political affiliation, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or disability.

We look forward to welcoming a dedicated full time faculty member to our department who is passionate about shaping the future of visual communication arts through a rich understanding of its history and technological evolution.

Position Type: Teaching & Research Faculty
Full time equivalent: 100%
Tenure: Ineligible
Rank: Assistant Professor
Months: 9
Department: School of the Arts, Communication Arts

Salary: Minimum hiring salary is $70,000 and commensurate with experience.