The Department Head is the chief academic and administrative officer of the department, serving a 12-month appointment and reporting to the Dean. The position carries both administrative and faculty responsibilities, including teaching, research/creative activity, and service appropriate to the scope of the department.

A complete search profile can be found at https://www.southeastern.edu/wp-content/uploads/human-resources/employment/department-head-visual-art-design.pdf. Questions concerning this position should be directed to the search committee Chair, Assistant Professor Dr. Rachel Harmeyer, rachel.harmeyer@selu.edu. The desired start date is July 1, 2026. The search will continue until filled.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership in curriculum development, assessment, and strategic planning.
• Mentor and evaluate faculty, recruit new faculty, and promote professional development.
• Manage departmental budgets and advocate effectively for resources.
• Oversee course scheduling, accreditation reviews, and program development.
• Promote student recruitment, retention, and success.
• Represent the department within the College, University, and community.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Terminal degree from an accredited institution in Visual Arts, Art Education, Art History, Theatre, or a related field.
• Record of teaching, scholarship, and service warranting appointment as associate or full professor.
• Minimum of six years of successful full-time teaching at the assistant professor level or above.
• Evidence of teaching excellence at the undergraduate level.
• Demonstrated commitment to shared governance and inclusive leadership.
• Experience with curriculum development and assessment.
• Budget and resource management skills.
• Personal qualities of openness, integrity, and objectivity.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience effectively leading an academic department.
• Strong record of service at the department, college, and university levels.
• Experience with the NASAD accreditation process.
• Ability to build partnerships with local industries and external stakeholders.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

• Cover Letter addressing qualifications.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Names and contact information for 3–5 references.
• Unofficial transcript of the highest degree (official transcripts required upon hire).
• Portfolio of creative and/or scholarly work.
• Evidence of Teaching Effectiveness.