Special Instructions to Applicants
First priority will be given to applications submitted on or before October 15, 2026. The position will remain open until filled. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
The Director of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Academic Success provides strategic leadership for the adoption, integration, and responsible use of artificial intelligence across Academic Affairs at The University of Southern Mississippi. Reporting to the Provost and working closely with the Center for Faculty Development and AI Advisory Board, the Director leads the development and implementation of academic AI strategy and initiatives supporting teaching, learning, curriculum, faculty development, academic integrity, student success, and research and grant support. The position serves as a key advisor on academic AI, leads cross-functional initiatives, develops strategic partnerships and funding opportunities, and works across the University to advance AI innovation in support of the academic mission.
Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities
Leads the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive Academic Affairs strategy for the adoption and responsible integration of artificial intelligence across teaching, learning, curriculum, faculty development, and student success. Provides strategic leadership for the University’s AI Advisory Board and other academic AI initiatives, establishing priorities and coordinating efforts across colleges, departments, and University partners. Contributes to the development of faculty programming, training, resources, and institutional guidance to support the development of AI literacy in teaching, learning, curriculum, academic research, and academic integrity, in collaboration with the Center for Faculty Development and other units across campus that provide training and support for faculty and staff. Pursues external funding opportunities and provides leadership and oversight for grant-funded academic AI initiatives, including project implementation, budgets, compliance, reporting, and assessment of outcomes. Develops and maintains strategic partnerships with University units, industry, state leaders, the Mississippi AI Network (MAIN), peer institutions, and other external stakeholders to advance academic AI initiatives, applied learning, innovation, and funding opportunities. Monitors emerging AI technologies, policy developments, and best practices in higher education and serves as the key advisor for university leadership on their potential impact, including considerations related to governance, academic integrity, data stewardship, privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible use. Establishes measures for evaluating academic AI initiatives, reports progress and outcomes to university leadership, and provides strategic direction for the continued development of the University’s academic AI function, including future programmatic, technology, resource, and staffing needs. This may include on-going needs assessments. Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least three years of experience in academic technology, artificial intelligence, instructional innovation, and/or other AI-related initiatives within a higher education environment. Demonstrated experience leading, implementing, evaluating, or governing artificial intelligence initiatives within a higher education, academic, instructional, research, or organizational setting.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)
Subject knowledge:
Advanced knowledge of artificial intelligence technologies, applications, emerging trends, and their implications for higher education. Knowledge of responsible AI principles, including AI governance, academic integrity, data stewardship, privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical use. Knowledge of grant development, project management, budgeting, compliance, and reporting. Teaching and Learning:
Strong knowledge of teaching and learning practices, curriculum development, faculty development, and academic innovation. General knowledge of AI's role in career readiness, workforce preparation, and higher education trends related to student success. Ability to collaborate effectively with units across USM for development and implementation of AI programming and curriculum, and management of AI learning spaces and/or technology. Ability to lead and/or facilitate AI training sessions and programs for faculty, staff, and students.
Leadership:
Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate institution-wide strategies and complex initiatives. Ability to provide evidence-based strategic guidance and recommendations to executive and academic leadership. Ability to develop and maintain effective partnerships and build consensus with faculty, academic leadership, industry, government and state partners, and other external stakeholders. Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Ability to communicate complex technical language in ways all stakeholders can understand. Strong analytical, organizational, project management, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Doctoral or terminal degree from an accredited college or university. At least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience leading artificial intelligence, academic technology, digital transformation, or academic innovation initiatives within a higher education environment; teaching or conducting research related to artificial intelligence or emerging technologies; developing successful grant proposals and managing externally funded projects; and/or developing institutional guidelines, programs, or strategies related to artificial intelligence. Strong understanding of AI governance and responsible-use considerations within public higher education.
About The University of Southern Mississippi Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.
