Visiting Assistant Professor & Program Director, Performing Arts Leadership & Management

Job Details

Shenandoah Conservatory is accepting applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor & Program Director. This is a full-time benefited position located on our main campus in Winchester, Virginia.

Shenandoah Conservatory seeks an exceptional teacher and program director, with significant experience in Performing Arts Leadership & Management, to join its dynamic performing arts faculty. This full-time Visiting Assistant Professor/Program Director position will begin in August of 2026.

• Teach a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester of graduate courses in Performing Arts Leadership & Management including governance of arts organizations, institutional planning, financial management of arts organizations, arts marketing and audience engagement, and fundraising.
• Develop and update course curricula, including syllabi, lectures, and assignments to reflect current events, industry trends, and evolutions in the field.
• Advise and mentor students on academic and career paths.
• Advise and supervise students’ field internships
• Review admissions applications and onboard graduate and undergraduate 4+1 students.
• Engage in scholarly or creative activities, which may include research, publications, or presentations.
• Participate in departmental, college, and university service, such as committee work, program development, and student recruitment.
• Recruit, onboard and supervise adjunct faculty.
• Lead excursions within the United States and abroad.
• Serve as the university’s membership representative to the Association of Arts Administration Educators.
• Participate in academic professional conferences.
• Manage the program budget.

Performing Arts Leadership & Management (PALM) at Shenandoah Conservatory:

The online Master of Science in Performing Arts Leadership & Management is designed to provide future performing arts executives and artistic leaders with the industry skills required in the 21st century.

The Performing Arts Leadership & Management (PALM) program provides online classroom training in arts leadership, marketing, fundraising, financial management, entrepreneurship and governance, and program/project planning that prepares students to find a meaningful professional career in the field of performing arts management, artistic leadership and arts entrepreneurship.

The program is intended for students who hold a baccalaureate degree in music, theatre, dance or related fields, emerging leaders who hold an entry-level arts position and are seeking to advance their career, and those seeking to change careers to arts leadership and management.

The 36-credit program can be completed in as little as two years, taking 9 credits per semester or may be completed at a slower pace.

Experiential learning opportunities are embedded within the program, including arts management internships and optional travel within the United States and abroad.

With an established reputation for excellence in professional training and a constant focus on the industry, the program provides highly individualized education in a rigorous, yet supportive environment. While the PALM program is currently offered Online, the school's campus in Winchester, VA, allows for easy access to and regular interaction with theatre professionals from New York City as well as Washington D.C.

About the Shenandoah Conservatory and University:

Shenandoah Conservatory was founded in 1875 and is located at the head of the historic Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, VA, 70 miles west of Washington DC.

Over 650 students are enrolled in baccalaureate, masters and doctoral curricula in the areas of music, theater and dance, and are taught by a dynamic and diverse faculty of over 125, half of whom are full-time.

Shenandoah University is a diverse institution of approximately 4,000 students enrolled in baccalaureate, masters and doctoral curricula in business, arts and sciences, health professions and performing arts. Shenandoah University is an independent, coeducational institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. www.su.edu

Shenandoah University is committed to enriching its educational experience and culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff. All candidates are strongly encouraged to include a statement in their cover letters addressing ways in which they may be able to contribute to that commitment.

Required Skills

Education:

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution and proof of online teaching certification.

Experience:

• A minimum of three years’ teaching in an accredited higher education institution with experience teaching fully online, asynchronous courses
• A minimum of three years in a leadership role within a professional performing arts organization.

Skills:

• Curriculum development and design.
• Exceptional written and verbal communications.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills.
• The ability to design, organize and execute all required program plans and tasks.
• Broad knowledge of the professional performing arts field.

How to Apply:

The Complete application submissions will include a letter of intent, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected.

Inquiries for the Position Should Be Addressed to: Dr. Jennifer Steele, Dean, Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University; Jennifer.Steele@su.edu

Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.

Authorized to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.

Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.