JOB POSTING IS EXPIRED
Assistant/Associate Professor of Catholic Studies

Job Overview

POSITION SUMMARY. The Religious Studies and Theology program at Loras College invites applications for a full-time, tenure track, donor-funded position in Catholic Studies with an endowed chair to be named later. This position begins fall 2022 and carries a five-course undergraduate teaching load (15 credits) in Catholic Studies and general education. In addition, this position requires service to the college through directing the Catholic Studies minor, leading professional development to enhance understanding of the Catholic intellectual tradition across campus, and strategic recruitment in emerging areas. The position will require professional collaboration across disciplines and will manage a budget commensurate with these responsibilities. We seek experienced candidates who evidence strong potential for leadership and teaching excellence. Relevant strengths include the use of creative and effective pedagogies, flexibility in teaching interests, and a commitment to broad, integrated, and interdisciplinary learning.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE. Candidates must possess a doctoral degree and teaching experience at time of application. Diverse disciplinary backgrounds are welcome but teaching competence in the Catholic theological tradition is required. Preference will be given to candidates conversant with Hispanic, Black, indigenous, or contextual theologies and experiences. Preferred candidates will help advance the institution towards becoming an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution or otherwise contribute substantially to the college' efforts to recruit and retain a diverse student body. As a tenure-track opening, the position requires excellence in undergraduate teaching, substantial institutional service, and scholarship commensurate with these responsibilities.

THE RELIGIOUS STUDIES AND THEOLOGY PROGRAM. The four full-time faculty members of the Religious Studies and Theology Program oversee an undergraduate major and minor and contribute courses to interdisciplinary minors including Catholic Studies, Peace and Justice, and Gender Studies. Program faculty collaborate with others at the college to explore and develop the college' commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition and extend their academic expertise beyond the college into pastoral contexts. Significant programs and initiatives which intersect with the program' work include the Interfaith Leaders Program, Children of Abraham, Breitbach Catholic Thinkers and Leaders Program, the Archbishop Kucera Center for Catholic Intellectual and Spiritual Life, and adult education programs in the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

THE COLLEGE. Founded in 1839, Loras College is a Catholic, primarily undergraduate, liberal arts institution that includes pre-professional and career preparation programs, as well as several graduate programs. The Loras College community embraces the core values of truth, respect, responsibility excellence, and service that define the way we work, behave, and relate with others. These values align with our college mission: Loras, as a Catholic liberal arts college, creates a community of active learners, reflective thinkers, ethical decision-makers and responsible contributors in diverse professional, social and religious roles. The student body consists of approximately 1,400 students, over 90 percent of whom are full-time undergraduates.

THE COMMUNITY. Loras College' 60 acre campus is located on one of Dubuque' highest bluffs, overlooking the Mississippi River at the junction of the states of Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin, about 3 hours west of Chicago. Dubuque' population is approximately 60,000 and its nineteenth century architecture is woven into limestone bluffs and provides a picturesque backdrop to the river landscape. Many residential and commercial areas have been designated as historical districts to preserve Dubuque' unique heritage. Its strong education base supports numerous cultural activities, and in addition, there are sporting events, shopping facilities, schools, and churches that are convenient to its residents. The climate has marked seasons with a comfortable summer, cool spring and fall, and a winter that encourages a variety of sports that have in recent years attracted a growing tourism industry.

COMPENSATION. Commensurate with qualifications, education and experience. Fringe benefits include medical/dental/life/disability insurance, flexible spending plan, TIAA retirement plan, tuition remission program, family membership in Graber Sports Center/San Jose Pool, free admission to many college events and free off-street parking.

APPLICATION DEADLINE. Review of applications begins immediately. For more information contact Dr. Jacob Kohlhaas, Jacob.Kohlhaas@loras.edu, 563-588-7306.

APPLICATION. Go to: https://loras.applicantpool.com/jobs/ to upload your letter of application, curriculum vitae, teaching philosophy, research plans, and unofficial graduate-level transcripts. Have three letters of recommendation sent directly to the contact above. Additional materials may be requested at a later date.

Loras College is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an educational and work environment that is inclusive, rich in diversity, and supportive of all students, faculty and staff. Individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Please visit www.loras.edu for additional information about Loras College.