Working at Stillman College, your next career step!

🎓 Overview of Stillman College

Stillman College, located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is a private historically black liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Founded in 1876 by Rev. Charles Allen as Tuscaloosa Institute, it evolved into Stillman College in 1948, emphasizing undergraduate education in a supportive environment for diverse students. With an enrollment of approximately 800 students, the college offers bachelor's degrees across disciplines including business administration, teacher education, religion, natural sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities. Note that while some data sources list alternative locations, official records confirm Tuscaloosa as home, near the University of Alabama, fostering collaborative opportunities.

The institution's mission centers on fostering leadership, service, and intellectual growth, particularly for African American students, making it a vital part of higher education in the United States. Jobs at Stillman College attract educators and professionals committed to small-class teaching, community engagement, and cultural enrichment. Faculty and staff contribute to a vibrant campus known for its faith-integrated curriculum and strong alumni network.

Types of Positions Available at Stillman College

Jobs at Stillman College span faculty, administrative, and support roles tailored to its liberal arts focus. Common faculty positions include assistant professors in departments like Biology, English, History, Mathematics, Business, and Education. Administrative openings often cover areas such as academic affairs, student services, finance, and human resources. Support staff roles include library specialists, IT support, and maintenance.

For a deeper dive into university job types, including tenure-track versus adjunct positions, explore our comprehensive guide. Tenure-track roles emphasize long-term commitment, while adjunct positions offer flexibility for early-career academics. Leadership positions like department chairs or vice presidents require strategic vision aligned with the college's Presbyterian heritage and HBCU designation.

• Faculty: Teaching-focused with some research expectations.
• Administration: Overseeing operations and student success.
• Staff: Supporting daily campus functions.

Key Terms and Definitions

To fully understand jobs at Stillman College, here are essential definitions:

• Historically Black College or University (HBCU): Institutions established prior to 1964 with the principal mission of educating Black Americans, like Stillman, promoting academic excellence and social mobility.
• Terminal Degree: The highest academic qualification in a field, typically a PhD or EdD for faculty roles.
• Tenure-Track Position: A job leading to permanent employment after probationary review based on teaching, research, and service.
• Adjunct Professor: Part-time instructor without tenure prospects, ideal for gaining experience.
• Liberal Arts College: Emphasizes broad undergraduate education in humanities, sciences, and social sciences over specialized vocational training.

Required Academic Qualifications for Jobs at Stillman College

Faculty positions at Stillman College generally require a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent) in the relevant discipline from an accredited institution. For example, a Biology professor needs a PhD in Biological Sciences, while Education roles often seek an EdD. Master's degrees are minimum for adjunct or lecturer positions, but competitive applicants hold doctorates.

Administrative roles vary: a Dean of Students might need a master's in higher education administration, paired with experience. All positions demand alignment with Stillman's Christian values and commitment to undergraduate mentoring. Background checks and references are standard.

Research Focus and Expertise Needed

While primarily teaching-oriented, Stillman encourages faculty research benefiting undergraduates, especially in HBCU-relevant areas like African American history, STEM equity, and community health. Expertise in grant writing for federal programs (e.g., Title III funding for HBCUs) is valued. Recent hires have focused on interdisciplinary studies, such as environmental science in the Black Belt region or digital humanities.

Candidates with publications in journals like the Journal of Black Studies or experience in undergraduate research programs stand out. Collaboration with nearby University of Alabama labs enhances prospects.

Preferred Experience, Skills, and Competencies

Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of college-level teaching, peer-reviewed publications (2-5 minimum for assistant professor), and grant management. Skills encompass curriculum development, student advising, and cultural competency training.

Key competencies:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for diverse classrooms.
• Proficiency in learning management systems like Blackboard.
• Commitment to service, e.g., leading student organizations.
• Data-driven teaching, using assessment tools for improvement.

Check tips for excelling in research roles adaptable to U.S. contexts, or employer branding insights for career growth.

Application Process and Tips

To apply for jobs at Stillman College, monitor the official careers page or platforms like higher ed jobs listings. Submit a tailored cover letter, CV, transcripts, three references, and a teaching statement. Interviews involve teaching demos and campus visits.

Actionable tips:

• Highlight HBCU or minority-serving experience.
• Quantify achievements, e.g., "Mentored 50 students to 90% retention."
• Network via conferences like the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
• Follow up post-submission; prepare for faith-based questions.
• Use free resume templates optimized for academia.

Applications are reviewed year-round, with peaks in spring for fall hires.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Stillman College, as an HBCU, champions diversity through targeted recruitment of underrepresented faculty, including women and first-generation scholars. Initiatives include the Faculty Diversity Fellowship, annual inclusion workshops, and partnerships with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The college tracks demographics, aiming for balanced representation, and offers bias training. Employee resource groups support Black, LGBTQ+, and veteran staff, fostering an inclusive environment reflective of its student body (over 90% African American).

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

With a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, Stillman promotes manageable workloads, averaging 4 courses per semester plus advising. Campus life thrives on 140 acres with modern facilities, residence halls, a gym, and cultural centers. Tuscaloosa offers affordable living, SEC sports via UA proximity, and outdoor recreation along the Black Warrior River. Faith services, wellness programs, and family events enhance balance. Staff enjoy flexible hours, sabbaticals after 6 years, and tuition benefits for children.

Employee testimonials praise the familial atmosphere, with events like Founders Day celebrations building community.

Career Development and Benefits

Stillman invests in growth via professional development funds ($2,000 annually), conference travel, and leadership training. Benefits package includes TIAA-CREF retirement, comprehensive health coverage, 4 weeks vacation, and 12 sick days. Tuition remission covers 100% for dependents at Stillman or partner schools.

For broader opportunities, explore professor jobs, administration jobs, or higher ed faculty roles.

Why Pursue Jobs at Stillman College?

Jobs at Stillman College offer meaningful impact in a historic setting, blending teaching passion with community service. Whether seeking higher ed jobs or advancing via higher ed career advice, this HBCU provides stability and purpose. Visit university jobs or post your opening at post a job to connect.