Foundation Program Chair

Maine College of Art & Design is seeking candidates for a full-time position as Chair of Foundation at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, beginning August 16, 2025. This role involves cultivating a transformative first-year experience that shapes the next generation of creative leaders.

The College is committed to providing a robust, transdisciplinary foundation that supports the personal, academic, and professional growth of our diverse student body. The ideal candidate is invested in foundation pedagogy across art and design and has the skills to organize and manage complex curricula and programmatic offerings. 

As Chair, you will integrate expanded models of pedagogy and learning in art and design education. You will also work with Student Life to develop meaningful co-curricular experiences and programming for first-year students.

POSITION SUMMARY AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Collaborate with the Dean of Undergraduate Studies and Program Chairs on the continued development and assessment of the Foundation Curriculum.

    

   Oversee the annual assessment of the effectiveness and rigor of the Foundation curriculum and Faculty. 

    

   Plan the annual BFA course schedule and assign appropriate courses to full-time and part-time faculty.

    

   Recruit and orient part-time faculty to the Foundation program.

    

   Oversee all aspects of the Foundation budget.

    

   Facilitate the purchase of supplies for each area of Foundation.

    

   Oversee the Foundation Studio Technician and make recommendations on Foundation facility and equipment needs.

    

   Teach at least 4 Foundation courses a year (i.e., a 2/2 load). 

    

   Design and implement a First-Year Experience (orientation and fall co-curricular activities) with the Dean of Student Life.

    

   Serve on the Student Success Committee, monitor first-year student retention, and actively support College-wide retention efforts.

    

   Attend Admissions-related events throughout the academic year (open houses, admitted student days, etc.).

    

QUALIFICATIONS

The successful candidate will hold an MFA in Studio Art, Design, New Media, or a related field and demonstrate a record of exhibitions and engagement in their field. An MFA must be in hand by August 1, 2025.

• Demonstrated expertise or skills in curriculum development, pedagogy, and teaching in the area of Foundation.

   

  Evidence of a dynamic professional practice and engagement in their field through exhibitions, publications, or similar endeavors.

   

BENEFITS

Compensation ranges from $58,000 to $66,000, pending previous experience and rank. The Foundation Chair also receives an additional stipend of $5,000 for administrative responsibilities. A comprehensive benefits package includes health, dental, vision, disability, retirement benefits, and more. 

DIVERSITY

Maine College of Art & Design recognizes that diversity is integral to the academic experience and strives to foster an inclusive culture defined by respect, equity, and social responsibility. Successful candidates will have demonstrated experience in working with diverse populations, and supporting an inclusive and equitable community. Maine College of Art & Design prohibits any member of the faculty, staff, administration, student body, or a third party from harassing or discriminating against any member of the Maine College of Art & Design community based on a person’s race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identify, gender expression, pregnancy, or national or ethnic origin or any other legally protected status in connection with hiring or employment, admission or financial aid, or other aspects of its educational programs or activities. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Candidates who submit their materials by Jan 2, 2025, are assured full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Digital applications are required in one PDF file not to exceed 25MB; please include the following: 

1. An application letter that describes how the candidate’s experience, accomplishments, and qualifications intersect with the position

    

   A curriculum vitae

    

   A portfolio of student work, sample syllabi, and sample assignments, which can include links.

    

   A portfolio of your work, which can include links

    

   A diversity statement

    

   A teaching philosophy

    

Attach the PDF to an email. Place “Foundation Program Chair Search: [Your Name]” in the Subject line. Applications will be kept confidential until candidates visit campus. 

INSTITUTION

Maine College of Art & Design is an independent college of art and design located in the center of the thriving arts district of Portland, Maine. Established in 1882, the College currently enrolls approximately 450 students, the majority of whom are in the undergraduate program. About 1,000 students take classes through MECA&D’s Continuing Studies Program annually. MECA&D’s Joanne Waxman Library is an important resource of art­ and design ­oriented books and periodicals for the region. The Institute of Contemporary Art at MECA&D is a vibrant site for the exhibition of contemporary art.

MECA&D is characterized by its intimate learning community, its interdisciplinary nature, and the breadth of its programs. It confers the degrees of Bachelor of Fine Arts in eight majors, a Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and the Salt Graduate Certificate in Documentary Studies. Maine College of Art & Design is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).