Job description
THE OPPORTUNITY
Alabama State University invites applications for the position of Chair of the Department of Communications in the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences.
This leadership position presents an exceptional opportunity for an accomplished academic leader to guide a dynamic department committed to excellence in communications education. The Chair will advance the department’s mission by fostering innovation in teaching and learning, supporting faculty development, and driving strategic initiatives that enhance student success in today’s rapidly evolving media and communications landscape.
The successful candidate will provide visionary leadership that aligns with the university’s strategic goals while strengthening the department’s academic reputation in communications disciplines. This position offers the opportunity to shape curriculum development, foster research productivity, and build collaborative relationships with media organizations, communications firms, and community partners across Montgomery and beyond. The Chair will be instrumental in preparing students for success in diverse communications fields through innovative teaching methods, practical experience, and academic rigor.
As a key academic leader within the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, the Chair will collaborate with other department heads, the Dean, and senior administration to contribute to institutional effectiveness and student achievement. The selected candidate will join a vibrant academic community dedicated to preparing communications professionals who will make meaningful contributions to the field through ethical practice, critical thinking, and effective communication strategies.
JOB DUTIES
The Department Chair serves as the chief academic and administrative officer of the
Communications Department, providing strategic leadership while fostering excellence in teaching, research, and service. Reporting directly to the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, this position encompasses comprehensive oversight of departmental operations, faculty development, curriculum innovation, and resource management.
In partnership with the Dean, the Chair assists in formulating and administering instructional and academic policies that align with industry standards, accreditation requirements, and institutional goals. The Chair leads efforts to develop and revise courses, ensures that course syllabi are prepared properly and are up to date, and incorporates methods for improving instruction across all modalities. Regular transmission of course objectives and comprehensive departmental reports to the Dean is an essential function of this role.
The successful candidate will balance administrative responsibilities with classroom teaching within the prescribed workload for departmental leadership. The Chair ensures proper academic advising for all departmental majors and minors, prepares class schedules that optimize resource utilization, makes faculty assignments relevant to departmental objectives, and supervises the preparation of material pertaining to the department that is published in university catalogs.
Faculty development responsibilities include identifying the need for new faculty positions or the need to fill vacant positions, evaluating the performance of faculty members in the department, and making recommendations regarding renewal, promotion, and tenure. The Chair fosters a collegial environment that promotes scholarly productivity and teaching excellence while ensuring that competencies are consistent with departmental objectives.
Resource management is another critical aspect of this role. The Chair determines departmental needs for supplies, equipment, library and related materials and ensures these needs are met.
Additionally, the Chair prepares and submits a departmental budget, in consultation with the Dean of the College and University financial planners, and ensures the approved budget is administered properly. The Chair also promotes the preparation of grant proposals to fund departmental programs while assisting in administering grants awarded to support such programs, seeking opportunities to enhance departmental resources and student opportunities.
ABOUT ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867, Alabama State University (ASU) is a comprehensive, historically black university located in Montgomery, Alabama. With a rich history spanning over 150 years, ASU has evolved from its origins as the Lincoln Normal School to become a premier institution dedicated to providing quality education to students from diverse backgrounds.
The university offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its colleges and divisions. ASU takes pride in its student-centered approach to education, maintaining small class sizes that foster meaningful interactions between students and faculty. The university’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its accreditations, including regional accreditation by SACSCOC.
ASU’s campus, situated in the heart of Montgomery, combines historic architecture with modern facilities. The university maintains a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and Division I athletics. ASU’s location in Alabama’s capital city provides students with unique opportunities for internships, community engagement, and professional networking.
The Percy J. Vaughn, Jr. College of Business Administration is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and offers programs designed to prepare students for success in the global business environment.
ABOUT THE PROVOST AND PRESIDENT
Together, President Ross and Provost Pettis form a dynamic leadership team dedicated to advancing ASU’s mission while fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovation in teaching, research, and service.
Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr. – President
Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr. serves as the 15th President of Alabama State University, assuming office in October 2017. An ASU alumnus, Dr. Ross brings a deep personal connection to the institution along with extensive experience in education and public service. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Master of Arts in Education from Alabama State University, followed by his Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Law, also from ASU.
Prior to his appointment as President, Dr. Ross served in the Alabama State Senate from 2002 to 2017, where he was elected Senate Minority Leader from 2014 to 2017. His career in education spans nearly three decades, including roles as a teacher, principal, and administrator. Under his guidance, the university has achieved significant milestones, including reaffirmation of accreditation through 2030 and advancement in national rankings.
Dr. Carl S. Pettis – Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dr. Carl S. Pettis serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Alabama State University. A proud alumnus of ASU, Dr. Pettis earned his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science in 2001 and his Master of Science in Mathematics in 2003 from the institution. He received his doctorate in Mathematics from Auburn University in 2006, becoming the first graduate of the Alabama Bridge to the Doctorate Program.
Dr. Pettis brings strong academic credentials to his leadership role, having published numerous research articles in the field of Design Theory. In his capacity as Provost, Dr. Pettis is committed to expanding the university’s academic footprint and has worked diligently to identify opportunities for growth and expansion of academic offerings.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Alabama State University is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, we consider applicants equally of race, gender, gender identity, color, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, disability, political affiliation, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
Federal law requires identity and employment eligibility verification on Form I-9 within three (3) business days of employment.
All positions require the passing of a background check and some the passing of a drugscreen.
ABOUT TM2 EXECUTIVE SEARCH
TM2 Executive Search specializes in providing exemplary executive talent acquisition consultation for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), predominantly Black institutions (PBIs), and other organizations looking to attract highly qualified, motivated, accomplished diverse candidates at all levels of the administration.
TM2 Executive Search is committed to supporting the Black college community anddeveloping the future of HBCU leadership. We use our combined experiences in higher education and executive search to partner with institutions to build highly effective and functioning leadership through increasing the quality of talent acquisition and developing strategic leaders.
TM2 Executive Search serves as the official educational talent search subsidiary of Thurgood Marshall College Fund. For more information about TM2 Executive Search, visit tm2search.com.
How to apply
Qualified candidates should submit a comprehensive application package that includes:
- A cover letter addressing qualifications and interest in the position
- Current curriculum vitae
- Statement of teaching philosophy and administrative leadership approach
- Three professional references with contact information
- Official transcripts of all graduate work
Applications should be submitted electronically. The position will remain open until filled.
Please direct nominations and inquiries to:
Jessica Horton
Associate Principal
TM2 Executive Search
[email protected]
