Hollins University, located in Roanoke, Virginia, is a private institution renowned as one of the oldest women's colleges in the United States. Established in 1842, it provides a liberal arts education primarily to undergraduate women, with coeducational graduate programs. The campus spans 475 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a picturesque setting that inspires both learning and personal growth. Jobs at Hollins University attract professionals passionate about women's education, interdisciplinary studies, and creative pursuits.
The university employs around 200 faculty and staff, supporting approximately 800 undergraduates and 200 graduate students. Its small size fosters close collaboration, making roles here ideal for those seeking impactful teaching and mentorship. Hollins emphasizes innovative pedagogy, with strengths in creative writing—home to the prestigious Hollins Creative Writing Program—and equestrian studies, unique among liberal arts colleges.
Hollins University's rich history shapes its employment landscape. Founded as Valley Union Seminary by Charles Lewis Cocke, it became Hollins College in 1911 and a university in 1998. This evolution reflects a commitment to empowering women through education, influencing hiring priorities toward candidates who champion gender equity and liberal arts excellence.
Today, the mission—to educate women for leadership in a global society—guides recruitment. Faculty jobs often require alignment with this vision, such as experience in women-centered pedagogy. The university's alumnae include Pulitzer Prize winner Annie Dillard and novelist Madison Smartt Bell, highlighting its legacy in fostering talent that employees help cultivate.
Jobs at Hollins University span faculty, administration, and support roles. Tenure-track professor positions in departments like English, biology, and psychology are common, alongside lecturer jobs for short-term teaching. Administrative openings include roles in student affairs, advancement, and equestrian center management. For a full list of types of positions available, refer to university job types.
Recent openings have included assistant professors in environmental studies and digital media, reflecting Hollins' forward-thinking curriculum.
To understand jobs at Hollins University, key terms include:
Securing jobs at Hollins University demands specific credentials. Required academic qualifications typically include a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field for tenure-track roles, or a master's for lecturers. Research focus varies by department: English positions prioritize creative writing portfolios, while sciences emphasize lab experience.
Preferred experience encompasses 3+ years of teaching undergraduates, peer-reviewed publications (e.g., 5-10 articles), and grant funding history. Skills and competencies highlight strong communication, mentorship abilities, and digital literacy for hybrid teaching. For instance, equestrian roles require certification from the American Riding Instructors Association.
The application process for jobs at Hollins University begins with online submission through their careers portal at hollins.edu. Prepare a tailored cover letter addressing the mission, CV highlighting teaching philosophy, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and campus visits.
Actionable tips:
Deadlines align with academic cycles; apply early for fall hires.
Hollins University actively promotes diversity through the Office of Inclusion and Student Engagement. Initiatives include the Hollins Equity Academy for faculty training on bias and the recruitment of first-generation and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) scholars. In 2023, 40% of new hires were from underrepresented groups. Programs like affinity groups for women of color and LGBTQ+ support ensure an inclusive workplace.
The university partners with organizations like the Women's College Coalition for diverse talent pipelines, making it a leader in equitable hiring.
Work-life balance at Hollins is bolstered by a supportive culture in scenic Roanoke, Virginia. Employees enjoy flexible scheduling, 4-day summer weeks for faculty, and generous parental leave. Campus life features equestrian trails, the Hollins Playhouse for theater, and proximity to Roanoke's Mill Mountain Star and vibrant arts district.
Wellness perks include gym access, counseling, and farm-to-table dining from the organic garden. The close-knit community hosts events like faculty-staff mixers and Roanoke River kayaking, blending professional growth with personal rejuvenation. Average workweek: 40-45 hours, with sabbaticals providing extended breaks.
Hollins offers competitive professor salaries averaging $70,000-$90,000, plus comprehensive benefits: TIAA retirement matching, health plans covering 85% premiums, and tuition remission up to $15,000 annually for dependents. Professional development includes conference travel funds ($2,000/year) and workshops on pedagogy.
Staff roles feature similar perks, with emphasis on growth through leadership training.
In summary, jobs at Hollins University combine meaningful work in women's education with a supportive environment in beautiful Roanoke, Virginia. Explore more higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to connect with opportunities like those at Hollins.
