Wachovia Distinguished Professorship in Education

Position Title: Wachovia Distinguished Professorship in Education
Position Number: 008052
Working Title: Wachovia Distinguished Professorship in Education
Full-time or Part-time: Full Time
Time Limited Position: No
Number of Vacancies: 1
Department: College of Education
Posting Number:
SHRA/EHRA: EHRA (Faculty)
Job Category: Professional
Hiring Range: Commensurate with Education and Experience
Overall Position Competency: Flat Rate
Description of primary duties and responsibilities:
Primary Purpose of the Position:

The Wachovia Distinguished Professorship in Education at Fayetteville State University (FSU) in the College of Education is a prestigious position seeking a highly qualified and experienced individual in the field of Reading and Literacy. The successful applicant will possess both research and teaching expertise in Reading and the Science of Reading, as well as specialized knowledge as an Emergent Literacy Specialist. The candidate must also have completed Lexia LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training, although FSU encourages applications from candidates meeting all other qualifications and offers the opportunity to complete LETRS training through NCDPI (North Carolina Department of Public Instruction) during the first year of appointment if necessary.
Description of Work Continued:
FSU Reading Clinic Researcher – 40%
Develop and implement research projects related to Reading and Literacy. Conduct research in Reading and Literacy to advance understanding and practice. Collaborate with the Reading Clinic Director and clinic staff to identify research questions and areas for improvement. Design and execute research methodologies, including data collection and analysis. Maintain ethical research practices and ensure compliance with institutional guidelines. Analyze data collected from clinic interventions and assessments. Interpret research findings to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Present research results in clear and accessible formats for the COE, clinic stakeholders, and the academic community. Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of the FSU Reading Clinic interventions and programs. Use research findings to suggest improvements in clinic services. Collaborate with the Reading Clinic Director, clinic staff, and external stakeholders to implement evidence-based changes.

Scholarly Activity – 30%
Engage in scholarly activity in the field of Reading and Literacy. Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals. Write grant proposals to secure funding in support of research initiatives and the operational needs of the FSU Reading Clinic. Present research at national, state & local conferences and seminars.

LIL (Literacy Innovation Leaders Initiative) Trainings – 15%
Conduct LIL trainings for FSU education majors. Contribute to the professional development of future and current educators in literacy instruction and innovation. Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement among education majors and beginning teachers who graduated from the FSU College of Education.

Academic Standards and Educational Technology – 5%
Maintain and enhance academic standards within the College of Education. Demonstrate expertise in utilizing educational technology tools and methods to support literacy development. Design and implement digital, virtual, and online teaching and learning strategies. Collaborate with colleagues to integrate technology effectively into curriculum design and delivery.

Commitment to Public Higher Education & Community Engagement – 5%
Demonstrate a deep commitment to the values and goals of public higher education. Actively engage with the community to foster positive relationships and partnerships. Collaborate with local schools, organizations, and stakeholders to promote literacy initiatives. Contribute to community outreach and service efforts aligned with FSU's mission.

Annual Reporting – 5%
Provide an annual report to the Endowment Advisory Committee. Detailed research, extension activities, and outcomes achieved throughout the year. Ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to scholarly endeavors' objectives.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:
A doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Ed.D.) in Education or a closely related field with a focus on Reading, Literacy, or a relevant discipline. The degree must be from an accredited institution.
Knowledge skills and abilities:
Preferred Qualifications:
Excellence in university teaching experience. Evidence of a nationally recognized research agenda and a publication record commensurate with rank. Evidence of successful grant procurement. Evidence of successful experience in faculty leadership at the department, college, and university levels as well as with professional organizations.
Demonstrated research and teaching experience in Reading and Literacy, with a strong emphasis on the Science of Reading and evidence-based instructional practices. Experience as an Emergent Literacy Specialist, showcasing expertise in early literacy development and effective strategies for promoting emergent reading and writing skills in young learners.
Lexia LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training and certification or successful completion of the training through NCDPI (North Carolina Department of Public Instruction) within the first year of appointment is required.
Proven track record of scholarly activity, including publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at academic conferences. Experience in utilizing educational technology, digital tools, and online teaching and learning platforms effectively to enhance instruction and student engagement. Previous involvement in mentoring and advising graduate and undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds.
Demonstrated commitment to public higher education and community engagement.
Combination of academic expertise, teaching proficiency, research accomplishments, and commitment to advancing literacy education.