"Kneedler Distinguished Scholar/Professor - FNP - 140586"

Kneedler Distinguished Scholar/Professor - FNP - 140586

Western Carolina University

Department: School of Nursing

About WCU:

Position Summary:

The primary location of this position is at the WCU Biltmore Park Instructional Site in Asheville, NC.

The School of Nursing (SON) at Western Carolina University invites accomplished and visionary scholars to apply for the Mary Kneedler Distinguished Scholar/Professor position in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program.

This is a 12-month position, tenured at hire, at the rank of associate professor (Distinguished Scholar) or full professor (Distinguished Professor). The distinguished scholar/professor designation is for an initial five-year term, renewable for additional terms at the discretion of the Dean of the Health and Human Sciences. Anticipated begin date is August 2025.

Compensation will be commensurate with experience and scholarly accomplishments. We seek a dynamic leader committed to directing and advancing the FNP program into the future, with a strategic vision aligning with our mission and regional healthcare needs. The selected candidate may be hired into the Program Director role.

The distinguished scholar/professor will provide leadership in curriculum development, program innovation, and strategic planning to elevate the FNP program's impact. This role involves delivering high-quality instruction and mentorship across classroom, clinical, and simulation settings while fostering an environment of academic rigor and student engagement. The individual will be responsible for program leadership and oversee student admissions, mentor faculty and students, and lead efforts to maintain and enhance the program's academic excellence. The distinguished professorship provides a competitive salary, a stipend, and a professional development fund, which is replenished annually.

The distinguished scholar/professor is expected to write grant proposals and pursue external funding. The individual will demonstrate a commitment to the Boyer Model of Scholarship, promoting integration of teaching, research, and service. The distinguished scholar/professor will engage in scholarly activities that address health disparities and contribute to Western Carolina University's mission of engaged and integrated learning, as well as the stewardship of place.

This role also includes active involvement in service and leadership within the School, College, and University. The distinguished scholar/professor will play a crucial role in establishing strategic partnerships, securing resources to support program growth, and driving initiatives that position the FNP program as a leader in nursing education. The candidate should possess a forward-thinking approach to education and a commitment to collaboration across disciplines.

The WCU School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and features cutting-edge facilities on the Cullowhee campus and at the Biltmore Park instructional site in Asheville, North Carolina. Our FNP program is well integrated into diverse clinical environments, providing opportunities to impact healthcare delivery across rural and urban communities in the region.

Western Carolina University seeks a distinguished FNP leader dedicated to academic excellence, visionary leadership, and the advancement of nursing practice through education and research.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required for this position:

Minimum Qualifications:

Preferred Qualifications:

Position Type:

Special Instructions to Applicants: