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About Salem State University and the Unique Opportunity
Salem State University sits at the vibrant crossroads of historic New England and the bustling Greater Boston metropolitan area. As a public university with a growing reputation as an emerging Hispanic‑Serving Institution (HSI), Salem State is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and socially‑responsive learning environment. The campus serves a richly diverse student population that includes first‑generation scholars, veterans, adult learners, and a significant proportion of racial and ethnic minorities. This diversity fuels a dynamic campus culture where innovative teaching, community engagement, and interdisciplinary scholarship flourish.
In alignment with its strategic priorities, Salem State is launching an exciting, temporary full‑time faculty appointment for the Fall 2024 semester. The role is designed for a visionary artist‑scholar who can lead the development and delivery of a cutting‑edge Hip Hop Dance program while simultaneously enriching the university’s Race and Ethnic Studies curriculum. This position offers a platform to shape curricula, mentor emerging talents, and contribute to the university’s mission of social justice and cultural vitality.
Position Overview
The successful candidate will hold a joint appointment between the Music & Dance Department and the Interdisciplinary Studies Department. Primary duties include teaching, curriculum design, choreography, and scholarly contribution to Hip Hop Dance and Race & Ethnic Studies. The appointment is full‑time, temporary, and slated to begin in September 2024, with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years based on funding and program growth. The role may evolve into a tenure‑track position as the department expands.
Key Responsibilities
- Instruction and Course Development: Design and teach undergraduate courses such as Hip Hop Dance Technique, Cyphering, Hip Hop Dance History, and Choreography for the Salem Dance Ensemble or Hip Hop Dance Ensemble.
- Interdisciplinary Teaching: Deliver at least one core course per semester in Interdisciplinary Studies, contributing to the redesign of the American Studies concentration through an ethnic‑studies and social‑justice lens.
- Student Mentorship: Advise, mentor, and support a diverse cohort of students, including first‑generation and adult learners, in both academic and professional pathways.
- Curriculum Innovation: Collaborate with department faculty to integrate contemporary dance methodologies, culturally responsive pedagogy, and anti‑racist frameworks into existing programs.
- Community Engagement: Build partnerships with local arts organizations, cultural institutions, and community groups to create internship and performance opportunities for students.
- Scholarly Activity: Pursue research, creative practice, and publications that advance the fields of Hip Hop Dance, African‑American Studies, and Ethnic Studies.
- Administrative Contribution: Participate in departmental meetings, committees, and outreach initiatives; contribute to strategic planning and assessment activities.
- Assessment and Evaluation: Develop and implement assessment tools to evaluate student learning outcomes and program effectiveness.
Essential Qualifications
- Education: MFA in Dance, or a terminal degree (e.g., Ph.D.) in a related discipline from an accredited institution.
- Specialized Expertise: Demonstrated mastery of Hip Hop Dance, including performance, choreography, and pedagogy.
- Professional Experience: Proven record of professional practice in the dance field, with a portfolio of choreographic works or performance credentials.
- Academic Foundations: Strong grounding in theories and methodologies of American Studies, Race & Ethnic Studies, or African‑American Studies, complemented by teaching experience in these areas.
- Teaching Load: Ability to manage a standard 12‑credit hour load per semester while maintaining high standards of instruction.
Preferred Qualifications & Desired Experience
- Anti‑Racist Pedagogy: Demonstrated commitment to culturally responsive teaching and anti‑racist curriculum design within a liberal arts context.
- Administrative Skills: Experience with departmental administration, program development, or academic committee work.
- Advising & Mentoring: History of effective student advising, mentorship, or supervision of undergraduate research and creative projects.
- Latinx Scholarship: Documented involvement in Latinx‑focused teaching, research, community service, or outreach, aligning with Salem State’s HSI aspirations.
- Grant Writing: Success in securing external funding or fellowships for artistic or scholarly initiatives.
- Technology Integration: Ability to incorporate digital tools, virtual platforms, and multimedia resources into dance instruction and research.
Skills and Competencies for Success
- Creative Leadership: Visionary approach to choreographic creation and curriculum innovation.
- Communication: Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the capacity to articulate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
- Collaboration: Strong interpersonal abilities to work across departments, with students, faculty, and community partners.
- Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze cultural texts, performance practices, and social issues through interdisciplinary lenses.
- Organizational Acumen: Efficient management of time, resources, and multiple concurrent projects.
- Adaptability: Flexibility to thrive in a dynamic academic environment, including hybrid or remote teaching models when needed.
- Commitment to Equity: Passion for advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in higher education.
Compensation, Benefits, and Perks
Salem State University offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
- Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.
- Generous paid time off, including holidays, sick leave, and personal days.
- Professional development funds for conference travel, workshops, and continuing education.
- Tuition remission for graduate coursework applicable to faculty members.
- Access to state‑of‑the‑art performance spaces, rehearsal studios, and multimedia production facilities.
- Membership in campus wellness programs, recreational activities, and cultural events.
While the position is temporary, the university actively explores pathways to longer‑term appointments, particularly as Departmental growth aligns with strategic goals.
Professional Development and Career Growth
Salem State is committed to nurturing faculty talent through continual learning and advancement opportunities:
- Mentorship Programs: Pairing with senior faculty for guidance on teaching, research, and academic service.
- Research Support: Access to internal grants, research assistants, and collaborative networks.
- Leadership Tracks: Opportunities to serve on key committees, lead curricular initiatives, and shape institutional policy.
- Community Engagement: Platforms to present work at regional and national conferences, festivals, and community showcases.
- Promotion Pathways: Transparent criteria for contract renewal, tenure consideration, and advancement to senior ranks.
Work Environment, Culture, and Community Impact
The campus environment blends historic charm with contemporary vibrancy. Faculty members enjoy:
- A collaborative, interdisciplinary culture that values artistic expression and social justice.
- State‑of‑the‑art facilities including dedicated dance studios, rehearsal spaces, and technology‑enhanced classrooms.
- Proximity to Boston’s thriving arts scene, museums, and cultural institutions, providing abundant enrichment opportunities.
- Commitment to accessibility and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring an inclusive workplace.
- Regular campus events, faculty gatherings, and wellness initiatives that foster community and work‑life balance.
Application Process and Next Steps
Interested candidates should prepare the following materials:
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting academic, creative, and professional achievements.
- Unofficial transcripts confirming educational credentials.
- A cover letter that articulates teaching philosophy, research agenda, and a link to a video reel showcasing choreography or dance teaching.
All documents must be submitted through the online application portal by October 23 2023 for full consideration. The review process will continue until the position is filled, and final hiring is contingent upon successful background and CORI checks. Please note that this role does not qualify for H‑1B visa sponsorship.
For accommodation requests related to the ADA, please email [email protected]. Salem State University is an equal‑opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from persons of color, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.
Closing Statement – Join Our Vision
If you are an innovative dance professional, scholar‑practitioner, and advocate for equity, we invite you to bring your passion to Salem State University. This is more than a teaching appointment—it is a chance to shape the future of Hip Hop Dance education, influence interdisciplinary scholarship, and empower a new generation of culturally aware leaders. Apply today and become a vital part of a community that celebrates creativity, critical inquiry, and social transformation.
Simple Application Process
Ready to join us? The first step is easy. Click the link below to begin your application. We look forward to reviewing your materials and exploring how your talents can enrich our campus.
Apply Now
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Apply Now