Address
Form of workLocation:
Norman, OK
Open Date:
Jan 17, 2023
Description:
Native American Studies at the University of Oklahoma—a dynamic and growing academic department—is pleased to announce that we are seeking applications for Department Chair, a faculty position at the rank of Associate or Full.
The department seeks a visionary leader to work collaboratively with the faculty, students, and staff in NAS (Native American Studies) as well as with affiliated units across campus and campus leadership. This individual would articulate a long-term vision and goals, leverage the many, outstanding resources at OU and in the state, and guide the department's significant community outreach and educational activities designed to promote respect for the distinctive histories and cultures of Native Nations as well as the recognition of and respect for their continued sovereignty.
The Department Chair works closely with core faculty and the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences leadership and is expected to 1) articulate a long-term vision for the department and engage in strategic planning; 2) oversee basic departmental activities including curriculum, student recruitment, and faculty procedures; 3) serve as a liaison with the university administration and associated departments; 4) interact with the department's constituencies and articulate for them our vision and educational mission.
The teaching load for this position is 1/1 (one course each semester) and includes the ability to create and teach specialized upper-division courses and graduate seminars in addition to core requirements.
Native American Studies at The University of Oklahoma:
NAS places tribal sovereignty, community, and futurity at the center of academic study and prioritizes meaningful engagement with and service to Native Nations and communities. Our curriculum is anchored by our commitment to Indigenous methodologies, ways of knowing and relational accountability. NAS offers an undergraduate minor, B.A., and M.A. Our curriculum is organized around core courses in critical Indigenous theory and research methods and includes four areas of emphasis: (1) Tribal Governance and Policy; (2) Cultural Knowledges and Language; (3) Indigenous Media and Arts; and (4) Indigenous Community Planning. Our curriculum is designed to be responsive to the needs of Native Nations and communities as they articulate them, particularly the 39 sovereigns in Oklahoma.
NAS at OU has a strong foundation from which to grow. In the past ten years, NAS has moved from a program to a fully-fledged department with six tenured/tenure-track faculty and numerous affiliated faculty. We now offer four Indigenous languages, a Tribal Service-Learning course and Internship program. Notably, NAS recently became home to the Andrew Mellon Impact Fellowship program, which provides unique opportunities for students and post-doctoral fellows. We have established and renovated dedicated faculty offices, classrooms, and event space, providing a home for Native faculty and students and are at work on a physical building study.
As part of OU's commitment to Indigenous peoples and their substantial presence, the University established the Native Nations Center for community-engagement and research and created the office for the Associate Vice President for Tribal Affairs. OU Press has launched a secondary imprint, the Native Nations Press, in the past year. Critical support for students is provided by American Indian Programs & Services in the Office of Student Life, and faculty find campus community through the Indigenous Circle Faculty/Staff Resource Group. OU is also home to unparalleled Native American museums, collections, and archives, including the Western History Collection, the Fred Jones Museum of Art, and the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History. Signature campus events include the Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair, the Native Crossroads Film Festival, Indigenous Peoples' Day celebration, and the Spring Powwow, now in its 107th year.
Qualifications:
We seek a scholar holding a Ph.D. in Native American and Indigenous Studies or a relevant field. In addition, the successful candidate will have: (1) a strong record of research/creative activity productivity; (2) commitment to student mentoring; (3) excellence in graduate and undergraduate teaching and learning; and (4) evidence of applied expertise through collaborative community engagement with Native Nations and Native American communities.
Application Instructions:
To apply, all materials (cover letter, vitae, and name and contact information of three potential references) should be submitted online at We will begin reviewing applications on February 10th, 2023. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Direct inquiries to Dr. Amanda Cobb-Greetham, Search Committee Chair at The position will begin in August of 2023.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to: admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, or health care services that the University operates or provides.
Diversity Statement
The University of Oklahoma is committed to achieving a diverse, equitable and inclusive university community by recognizing each person's unique contributions, background, and perspectives. The University of Oklahoma strives to cultivate a sense of belonging and emotional support for all, recognizing that fostering an inclusive environment for all is vital in the pursuit of academic and inclusive excellence in all aspects of our institutional mission.
Mission of the University of Oklahoma
The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.
