"BCAS - Department Chair in Theatre and Dance - 527687"

Position Summary

The University of Alabama invites applications for the position of Chair in its Department of Theatre and Dance, beginning August 16, 2026. We seek a distinguished visionary leader and artist educator with strong administrative experience during a pivotal moment of growth and change, as the department opens the state-of-the-art Smith Family Center for the Performing Arts.

Detailed Position Information

The University of Alabama invites applications for the position of Chair in its Department of Theatre and Dance, beginning August 16, 2026. We seek a distinguished visionary leader and artist educator with strong administrative experience during a pivotal moment of growth and change, as the department opens the state-of-the-art Smith Family Center for the Performing Arts. The successful candidate will teach at the undergraduate and graduate level; pursue an active research agenda appropriate to candidate’s area of specialization; advocate for the department within the college and university; connect with and serve as an ambassador to the community; and represent the department at the national and international levels.

Once chosen, the candidate must be tenured in the College of Arts and Sciences at the rank of associate or full professor. Preferred qualifications: has a terminal degree in a relevant field; is familiar with innovative pedagogies in the arts and has experience managing curricular development; has a history of building lasting community relationships; demonstrates a successful track record of fundraising and resource development and exhibits a dedication to collaboration across multiple disciplines and entities.

Review of applications will begin November 24, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. To apply, submit a letter of application (specifically addressing how your training, qualifications, and experience meet the stated needs of the position), a detailed curriculum vitae, a statement of administrative philosophy, and a list of three to five references with contact information. Position queries should be directed to Professor Seth Panitch at spanitch@ua.edu.

Minimum Qualifications

MFA in Theatre or Dance

Preferred Qualifications

Ideal candidate has a terminal degree in a relevant field; is familiar with innovative pedagogies in the arts and has experience managing curricular development; has a history of building lasting community relationships; demonstrates a successful track record of fundraising and resource development and exhibits a dedication to collaboration across multiple disciplines and entities.

Instructions and Required Materials for Application

Review of applications will begin November 24, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. To apply, submit a letter of application (specifically addressing how your training, qualifications, and experience meet the stated needs of the position), a detailed curriculum vitae, a statement of administrative philosophy, and a list of three to five references with contact information. Position queries should be directed to Professor Seth Panitch at spanitch@ua.edu.

Department/Organization

204271 - Theatre and Dance

Rank

Associate/Full Professor