Chair, Department of Theatre and Dance - VCUarts

Chair, Department of Theatre and Dance – VCUarts

Join to apply for the Chair, Department of Theatre and Dance – VCUarts role at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts
.

Anticipated Start: August 2, 2026 (10‑month term, up to five years with option to extend; 9‑month faculty position thereafter).

Location: Richmond, Virginia.

Final date to receive applications: November 24, 2025.

Salary: Commensurate with experience. Generous benefits available.

Benefits: All full‑time staff are eligible for VCU’s comprehensive benefits package, including health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, tuition benefits, retirement planning, tax‑deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well‑being resources, and career development opportunities.

10‑month term (August 2 – May 30). The Chair may serve up to five years, with the option to extend for an additional three years. After the appointment, a 9‑month faculty position in the Chair’s area of expertise is provided. A semester‑long research reassignment facilitates a return to teaching.

Associate/Full Professor. Expedited tenure review is available for chairs who were already tenured at their previous institution and for new hires who have achieved full or associate professor status.

• Articulate a direction and goals for the department that align with School and university‑level initiatives.
• Vision and participate in cooperative collaboration efforts between VCUarts departments and across other VCU Schools and programs.
• Manage and optimize department budget and resources (facilities, faculty, etc.).
• Develop partnerships with local, national, and international organizations, institutions, and industry stakeholders.
• Coordinate curriculum development and discipline‑specific accreditation activities.
• Oversee faculty mentoring, service assignments, promotion and tenure reviews, work plans, workloads, hiring activities, and annual reviews.
• Manage day‑to‑day student affairs, including planning community‑engaged activities and events.
• Collaborate with the VCUarts recruitment and admissions team to support student recruitment, admission, and retention activities.
• Coordinate interactions with alumni, donors, and visiting artists/scholars.
• Teach in the Chair’s area of expertise (expected 1+1 teaching load).

• MFA or PhD in one of the areas represented in the Department of Theatre and Dance.
• Knowledge of the higher‑education landscape, research and professional practices in performing arts.
• Minimum five years of university‑level teaching experience beyond TA/adjunct level.
• Experience in academic administration or demonstrated leadership in institutional service.
• Well‑established research agenda with significant performance record and/or scholarly record, external funding, and contributions to scholarship or creative practice.
• Experience developing and leading in a highly ambitious and collegial team environment.
• Effective collaborative and communication skills.
• Commitment to fostering an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with faculty, staff, and students.

• Cover Letter with an overview of professional experience and creative research interests.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Teaching Statement addressing philosophy of teaching and student mentorship.
• List of five professional references (names, titles, and contact information). References will not be contacted prior to candidate approval.

Apply via the VCU Jobs website; only electronic applications are accepted.

Contact: VCUarts Human Resources – artshr