Faculty (open track/open rank)/Director of the Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The newly formed Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation at the University of Mississippi seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to champion the future of journalism and to oversee Center initiatives. The purpose of the Center is to proactively promote the preeminence and effectiveness of reliable, relevant, and educational journalism in American media and to promote the role of journalists in educating members of our society. The Center director is intended to be, and/or become, a public figure. The Director will speak publicly on behalf of the Center, organize programming and research, advocate for public policies supporting journalism, raise funds for the center, and write for a Mississippi and national audience to champion the essential value of journalism in democracy. As the inaugural Center Director, the Director will have great latitude to chart the Center’s vision and activities, including helping establish a national advisory board for the Center. One specific existing initiative run out of the Center that the Director will oversee is the Jordan Life Skills Institute, a practical minded supplement to scholastic education that links a vibrant and robust press to life-long education. The Center director will report to the Dean of the School of Journalism and New Media and have an office in Farley Hall off the University of Mississippi’s iconic Grove. This is a 12-month position. The rank and track of the candidate will be determined at the time of hire. The Director term is for 5 years and is renewable based on resources and performance. This position will carry a 1/1 teaching load.

Position Details

Appointment: 12 month

Assignment Type: Tenure Track or Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

A Master's Degree or a Bachelor's Degree and at least four (4) years of related experience.

Preferred qualifications:
• Extensive background in journalism (7+ years) and management experience
• A Masters degree

Substitution Statement: Related experience may be substituted for education, on a basis set forth and approved by the Department of Human Resources.

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.

Application Procedures

Questions about the position can be referred to School of Journalism and New Media Dean Andrea Hickerson, andreah@olemiss.edu

For full consideration, candidates should apply by August 31, 2024.

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
The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Nearest Major Market: Oxford Mississippi