Visiting Assistant Professor: African-American or US Ethnic Minority Literature

Grand Valley State University Department of English invites applications for the position of Visiting Assistant Professor, specializing in Multicultural Early American Literature. The position is for one year beginning in August 2021 with the potential for renewal for up to three years. Salary is $40,000 plus benefits as described here: https://www.gvsu.edu/hro/benefitswellness/visiting-faculty-benefits-466.htm

We seek a candidate specializing in African-American literature, or the literature of other US Ethnic Minorities, with the ability to teach a Literature of American Minorities course (ENG 335) in addition to our African-American Literature surveys (ENG 231/232) and general American Literature surveys (ENG 225/226). The successful candidate may also teach sections of the department’s Foundations courses (ENG 215 and 216) and our gen-ed Intro to Literature course (ENG 105), as well as other courses as determined by departmental need and candidate’s expertise. The position has a 4/4 teaching load with no service or research requirements. Some support for research/professional development activities may be available depending on department budget. Although GVSU is planning to return to face-to-face instruction for the 21/22 school year, candidates should be prepared to teach online if it becomes necessary for the university to transition to remote learning. Additional information about our program, including course descriptions, is available on our website at www.gvsu.edu/english

The successful applicant will have a strong teaching record at the post-secondary level (evidence of independently designed and taught courses preferred). PhD in English preferred; ABDs in English or PhD/ABD in Comparative Literature or Ethnic Studies with focus on literary studies also considered. (Please note that due to HLC requirements, candidates from non-English fields must be able to demonstrate that they have completed MA-level coursework in literary studies.)

We encourage applications from candidates from underrepresented groups, and from candidates who have interest and/or experience in working with diverse student and community populations. The successful candidate will have strong communication and interpersonal skills, such as the ability to interact with others with respect and empathy. Additionally, experience in or demonstrated understanding of social justice education and/or initiatives, and/or inclusion, diversity, and/or intercultural training is required.

Grand Valley University (GVSU) is a public comprehensive institution located in West Michigan with campuses in Allendale, downtown Grand Rapids, and Holland, plus centers in Muskegon and Traverse City. The University attracts more than 23,000 undergraduate and graduate students with high quality programs and state-of-the-art facilities, and has been nationally recognized for innovativeness and its contribution to students’ social mobility. The greater Grand Rapids metropolitan area has a population of around one million people, is affordable and rich in cultural amenities, and is located in easy driving distance of Chicago, Detroit, Lake Michigan beaches, and many other superb summer and winter recreational venues. Grand Valley is highly rated for safety, sustainability, and veteran and LGBTQ friendliness, and GVSU is committed to supporting employees and their families in work-life balance. Learn more about community resources here: https://www.gvsu.edu/hro/community-resources-1056.htm.

Applications should be submitted electronically and may be sent to the English Department Chair, Dr. Ashley Shannon, at shannoas@gvsu.edu. Please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and a statement on commitment to inclusive excellence that includes a summary of ongoing and anticipated activities to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity in your teaching,. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide three letters of reference from sources familiar with the candidate’s academic and teaching experience. Review of applications will begin May 30 and applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.