Assistant Professor of Ceramics and Sculpture at St. Edward’s University, Austin, TX
Posted on December 2, 2024
St. Edward’s University, a nationally ranked, independent Catholic university and Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Ceramics & Sculpture in the Department of Visual Studies, beginning August 2025. St. Edward’s is characterized by its commitment to the Holy Cross educational mission to educate the hearts and minds of a diverse student body that is deeply committed to social justice.
The successful candidate will work effectively with colleagues across disciplines, teach courses in the art degree program, will contribute to other interdisciplinary programs in the Department of Visual Studies, participate in program, departmental, and school service, serve as academic advisor to students in the program, and maintain an active record of creative research. The ideal candidate’s pedagogy will be informed by both a broad knowledge of ceramics and sculptural practice (which could include installation, environmental art, new media, and/or social practice). The successful candidate will also have expertise in the management of the ceramic studio and woodshop.
At St. Edward’s University the standard teaching load for tenure-track faculty is a 4/4, however, the faculty member will have one course reassignment annually for the first three years for creative research, with the potential for renewal.
In addition, experience engaging with a diverse student body is essential-candidates should be able to demonstrate their capacity for empathy, ability to meet students where they are, and willingness to approach the classroom environment with generosity and care. Candidates with an educational philosophy consistent with a liberal arts education, a commitment to undergraduate teaching, and an ability to work in a collaborative and cooperative environment with a diverse faculty are preferred.
St. Edward’s University embraces excellence through diversity and especially encourages applications from women and members of underrepresented racial, ethnic, sexual, and gender minority groups. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to supporting a diverse student body.
For consideration, candidate must have:
• MFA degree in Ceramics/Sculpture or related field.
• Previous teaching experience at the collegiate level of at least three or more years.
• A portfolio of creative work that demonstrates a strong technical and theoretical foundation in their practice and teaching.
• An active record of creative research.
• A strong portfolio of student work and sample syllabi from classes they have taught.
• Experience with a wide range of modeling and fabrication techniques which may include: clay, wood, metal, plastics and found objects; mold making; and familiarity with digital technology and new media.
• Experience in ceramic studio and woodshop management (ex. firing and care of kilns, oversight of other equipment in the clay and woodshop areas, understanding of glaze use and storage, etc.).
• Knowledge of environmental and safety policies related to the discipline.
• Successful completion of an employment and/or criminal history background check.
Essential Responsibilities Include:
• Ability to teach undergraduate ceramic and sculpture students applied lessons at all levels.
• Responsible for studio maintenance and supervision of the ceramics/woodshop facilities.
• Work closely with faculty and staff on the maintenance of classrooms and purchasing.
• Work with VISU faculty and the Environmental, Health, & Safety Coordinator maintain safety procedures and policies for classrooms and equipment.
• Mentor work study students to work in the woodshop and clay studio.
• Serve as academic advisor and creative mentor to a diverse body of students.
• Contribute to curriculum development and program assessment efforts.
• Participate actively in university and department committees, as needed.
• Demonstrate continuous professional development efforts throughout the academic year.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to interact effectively and professionally with the general public.
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize tasks.
• Ability to work under stress and with pressing timelines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Perform other related duties as assigned and based on departmental need.
• Responsible for regulatory and policy compliance as it applies to the positon.
• Other duties as assigned.
Physical Demands:
This position requires physical exertion for extended periods including walking, standing, sitting, repetitive actions, lifting and frequently carrying objects weighing up to fifty (50) pounds.
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should apply online.Application packages should include the following documents (PDFs preferred):
• cover letter
• curriculum vitae
• names and contact information for three references
• statement describing your teaching philosophy including your approach to working on projects with undergraduate students
• 20 professional and 20 student work samples in the form of a PDF (links to portfolios are acceptable)
Mission Integration Statement on how the candidate would integrate the University’s Holy Cross mission into their work. Your Mission Integration Statement should be included as a separate document. (see below)
Mission Integration Statement Prompt:
St. Edward’s was founded by the Congregation of Holy Cross, from which it acquired distinguishing characteristics that include the courage to take risks, an international perspective and the commitment to provide educational opportunities for students of varied cultural, religious, educational and economic backgrounds. In support of the mission, the different backgrounds of St. Edward’s students, faculty and staff enrich our community and represent a significant part of our culture and commitment to excellence. We value the individual differences, life experiences, unique capabilities and innovative talent that our employees and students contribute to our vibrant academic environment. St. Edward’s honors and respects all members of its community by fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment that respects the dignity and worth of each person and stresses the obligation of all people to pursue a more just world.
While serving as a faculty member at St. Edward’s University, how would your individual differences, life experiences and unique capabilities contribute to the mission as described above? Describe how your prior work aligns to the university’s mission.
Applicants should submit materials by January 15, 2025 for full consideration; however, the position will remain open until filled.
ABOUT THE ART PROGRAM
The Art program is student-centered and situates visual communication within a dynamic liberal arts context. Through a thoughtfully sequenced curriculum, we challenge our students to think critically as they define their individual path within studio art. We guide them in understanding that their perspectives as artists are informed by where they come from and contribute to how they engage as citizens in an ever-changing world. Students develop skills to work towards their senior year, where they define and propose a year-long investigation resulting in a thesis project, senior exhibition, and thesis paper. Graduates of the program are life-long learners who are poised to compete for jobs in the arts, pursue graduate study, or work in a related field.
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF VISUAL STUDIES
The Department of Visual Studies, one of seven departments within the School of Arts and Humanities, engages students in the critical understanding and creative production of contemporary culture. A diverse and engaged faculty support students in their efforts to shape their futures within a complex, interdisciplinary and technologically mediated world. We are dedicated to developing the creative and technical skills of students through our programs: Animation, Art, Art History, Graphic Design, Photography & Media Arts, User Experience Design, and Video Game Development.
ABOUT ST. EDWARD’S UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1885 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, St. Edward’s University is a private, Catholic, liberal arts institution of 2,900 undergraduate and 700 graduate students located in Austin, Texas. It is an exciting time to be part of the St. Edward’s community as the university increases its global engagement to educate students for the opportunities and challenges of a 21st-century world. SEU is a diverse community that appreciates faculty and students from all backgrounds. Consistent with its Holy Cross heritage, the university maintains a strong commitment to diversity and global initiatives.
