Description
Position Description The University of Texas at Dallas seeks a dynamic leader to direct competitive speech and forensics. The qualified applicant will have experience as both coach and competitor in American Forensic Association (AFA), National Forensic Association (NFA), and/or Pi Kappa Delta (PKD) events including, but not limited to, extemporaneous speaking, impromptu speaking, and platform (“plats”) events (i.e., Informative, Persuasive, and After-Dinner Speaking) as well as prose, poetry, and dramatic interpretation. The ideal candidate will also have experience coaching and/or competing in extemporaneous debate formats such as International Public Debate Association (IPDA). The Director of Speech will hold a faculty position as Assistant Professor of Instruction in the Harry W. Bass, Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology but will receive course release to coach Comet Speech & Forensics, which is part of the Wildenthal Honors College of UT Dallas. The Director of Speech will be expected to divide their time between coaching Comet Speech & Forensics and teaching lower and upper-division Communication Studies courses in the Bass School as well as honors sections of engineering professional and technical communication. The Director of Speech will take the lead in making travel arrangements and registering student competitors for tournaments as well as traveling with the team to regional, national, and international tournaments. The Director of Speech will actively coach student competitors at each of those tournaments. To summarize, the person holding this position will be responsible for the following every academic year (fall and spring semesters): • teaching four courses under the Communication Studies Area umbrella in the Bass School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology; • teaching two courses for the Wildenthal Honors College (e.g., two sections of ECS2390: “Professional and Technical Communication”); and • coaching the Comet Speech & Forensics team (two-course release per AY for coaching).
The appointment commences for the fall 2025 semester. Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience: A MA or equivalent in Communication, Communication Studies or a related discipline is required prior to employment; those with ABD status will be considered at the application/interviewing stage. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative, engaging, and dynamic environment comprised of individuals with a range of backgrounds, skills, and perspectives. We are seeking candidates able to deliver high quality teaching using evidence-based practices to effectively engage students from a range of backgrounds and experiences. Preferred Education and Experience: A Ph.D. in Communication, Communication Studies, Speech Communication, or closely related field of study is preferred. The Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology and the Communication Program The Communication Studies Program at the University of Texas Dallas offers a unique opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration with both faculty and students across the school. Faculty members include historians, creative writers and artists, scholars of visual culture and literature, and more. The Communication Program's objective is to teach students the theories, concepts and skills that will enable them to adapt to the rapid change and global interdependence that characterizes the 21st Century. The Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology is a community of scholars, artists, and creative practitioners defined by their creativity, critical thinking, and cross-cultural
understanding. Within the context of a Carnegie R1 doctoral research institution, AHT fosters the
fluid movement between traditional disciplines and cutting-edge experimental investigation of
emerging technologies. We prepare students with the skills to craft exceptional work, the
ambition to take on new challenges, and the critical thinking to make a difference in a globally
connected world. Application Instructions Applicants should upload the following: · Full curriculum vitae and cover letter summarizing their interests and qualifications for the position. · Statement of teaching philosophy describing their conceptualizations of teaching and learning, and teaching and assessment methods, and how their teaching practices will engage students from a range of backgrounds and experiences. · Full contact information for at least three academic or professional references. Priority will be given to completed applications received by 11/1/2024. Reviews will continue until the position is filled or the search is closed on 7/31/2025. The University and Community
UT Dallas is a top public research university located in one of the nation's fastest-growing metropolitan regions. Our seven schools offer more than 140 undergraduate and graduate programs, plus professional certificates and fast-track programs. Our student body is 30,000 strong, reflecting students from over 100 countries and a multiplicity of identities and experiences. Over 65% of our undergraduate students receive some form of need- or merit-based financial aid; and 66%of graduating seniors have no student debt compared to 48% in Texas and 32% in the nation (2021 TICAS report).
UT Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community whose education has prepared them for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world. A diversity of people, ideas, and perspectives is crucial to our vision and mission. UT Dallas is a place where members of the community from all backgrounds are welcomed, treated fairly, and encouraged in their pursuit of excellence. The University has a variety of programs and initiatives to support engagement and success for all members of the campus community. Employee benefits include a range of physical and mental wellness resources. “LilyPad” lactation facilities are located throughout the campus. There are several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) comprised of individuals who share common interests to help build community among UT Dallas faculty and staff (e.g., Universal Access ERG, Military and Veteran ERG, UT Dallas Young Professionals). Rich with visual and performing arts venues, museum districts, professional and semi-professional athletics teams, botanical gardens, accessible trails and so much more, the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex has something for everyone to explore. UT Dallas partners with regional higher education institutions and school districts and with the Richardson Innovation Quarter (Richardson IQ), a major hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and educational activities. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action
The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. The University prohibits unlawful discrimination against a person because of their race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.
The University of Texas at Dallas is an equal opportunity/affirmative action university.
Preferred Education and Experience
Ph.D. preferred in Communication, Communication Studies, Speech Communication, or closely related field of study.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Demonstrate a commitment to teaching excellence;
Prepare and teach undergraduate and/or graduate classes;
Contribute assessment information and data as requested;
Mentor and/or advise undergraduate and/or graduate students;
Engage in service within the academic unit, the university, and the profession as appropriate based on teaching and research constraints;
Teach six (6) classes each academic year. (Teaching load includes 4 courses in Communication Studies and 2 honors college courses in Professional and Technical Communication. • Coach the Comet Speech & Forensics Team).
Important Message
1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.
2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. EOE, including disability/veterans. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.
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