Director of African American Studies and Professor or Associate Professor
University, MS, US, 38677
Note for Current UM Employees
Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu
Position Description
The University of Mississippi invites applications for a full-time, 12-month administrative faculty position as Director of African American Studies, with a joint faculty appointment in African American Studies and another department in the College of Liberal Arts.
The University of Mississippi is an R1 institution in an exciting phase of institutional growth and is located in the city of Oxford, a vibrant community known for its small-town charm and outstanding educational and cultural opportunities. The African American Studies Program develops and coordinates an interdisciplinary undergraduate curriculum that focuses mainly on the African American experience in the United States, especially in Mississippi and the South. Its objectives are to encourage all students and faculty to examine the African American experience, to facilitate a cultural and intellectual atmosphere on campus favorable to such studies, and to develop and support a related program of research and community service. Our program goals are supported by the larger University of Mississippi and College of Liberal Arts’ strategic commitment to access and opportunity. In addition to supporting the current objectives of the Program by supervising the administrative aspects of the program, working with program faculty and students, and coordinating outreach and public programming activities, the new AAS Director will take the lead in shaping a vision for the program’s future. The Director carries a 1-1 teaching load.
Position Details
Appointment: 12 month
Assignment Type: Tenure Track
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates for the position of Director must have a Ph.D. or terminal degree with an outstanding academic record of teaching and publishing on subjects related to African American Studies and must hold the rank of tenured Associate or Full Professor at the time of application. Though we are open to candidates with research focuses in any field of the liberal arts, we seek candidates with a strong commitment to undergraduate education and knowledge of the broad curricular and academic issues in the field of African American Studies. The successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership and interpersonal skills; experience in personnel management and fiscal management is also desirable. Candidates with demonstrable commitment to and experience in fostering supportive communities for research, teaching, and learning are of particular interest.
Application Procedures
In addition to completing the online application, please upload the following: 1) under “Resume” a CV which includes the names and contact information for three professional references); 2) under “Other” an extensive cover letter summarizing your qualifications and academic background, making sure to address 1) your general administrative philosophy and relevant administrative experience; 2) your preliminary vision for the program; and 3) your experience with and approaches to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for a vibrant community of students, faculty, and staff.
Review of applications will begin in November and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated starting date is July 2025 but is flexible. Questions about the position may be addressed to the search committee chair Dr. Molly Pasco-Pranger (mpranger@olemiss.edu, 662-915-7097).
Interview Requirements:
Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.
About the University of MS & Oxford, MS
Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.
Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.
Background Check Statement
The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
Nearest Major Market: Oxford Mississippi