Powell-Edwards Lectureship in Religion

Mission or Goal of Unit:

The mission of the College of Humanities and Sciences is to serve as the intellectual heart and soul of our institution and wider community. The College of Humanities and Sciences:
Prepares lifelong learners to participate actively as engaged and responsible citizens Propels scientific research and scholarship to improve the human condition, cure and treat diseases, and promote healthy environments Grounds us in our history, critically examines our present human condition and empowers students to create more equitable local and global communities Provides communities with a passionate and creative workforce that serves as a powerful engine for economic development and innovative solutions to problems
As the intellectual lifeblood of VCU and our community, the College of Humanities and Sciences seeks to inspire our students to explore their passions and dreams as individuals and provide the context to understand their place in the world and connections with others-locally, globally and throughout time. Most importantly, our educational and research environment addresses an array of technological, health-related and societal problems, as well as providing profound insights and reflections of what it means to be human and humane.

As a preeminent national, urban, public research university and academic health center, Virginia Commonwealth University is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion - an environment where all can thrive in their pursuit of excellence. VCU's student body is diverse; approximately 35% of our undergraduates are first-generation college students and 32% are from underrepresented groups. One of the most important criteria for all candidates is that they have demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or are committed to do so as a faculty member at VCU.

The Religious Studies program in the College of Humanities and Sciences at VCU offers a holistic investigation of the artistic, ethical, historical, psychological, and social dimensions of religions, as well as the influence of religions on how we perceive sexuality, gender, race, health, public policy, and social justice. Graduates develop strong analytic, communication, and creative skills essential in an increasingly globalized economy where more and more people with different faiths are coming together. The Religious Studies program grounds learning in respect for global cultural and religious diversity and the search for social justice for all the world’s citizens.

The Powell-Edwards Distinguished Professorship in Religion and the Arts is an endowed faculty line in the College of Humanities and Sciences. The scholar holding the Powell-Edwards Distinguished Professorship will engage in scholarship and teaching in religion and the arts, and will establish and host an annual event exploring the intersection of religion and the arts in conjunction with a public lecture.

Chief Purpose of this position: The Religious Studies program in the College of Humanities and Sciences at VCU seeks an open-rank 9-month, tenure-eligible faculty member to fill the Powell-Edwards Distinguished Professorship in Religion and the Arts beginning in August 2024.

Position Responsibilities: We are seeking an individual who will (i) contribute high-quality research and scholarship including peer-reviewed publications, external funding, and active involvement in national or international professional association organizations, (ii) teach a 2-2 course load in Religious Studies, religion and the arts, and/or related fields; (iii) annually organize a religion and the arts public event in conjunction with the Powell-Edwards Lecture Series; (iv) engage in service as a faculty member in the Religious Studies program; (v) contribute to the intellectual and pedagogical mission of the College of Humanities and Sciences; (vi) contribute to the newly created Center for the Study of Global Religions and Spiritualities.

Required Qualifications:

• An earned Ph.D. in Religious Studies or the Anthropology, Sociology, or History of Religion, Art History, or other adjacent or relevant field by the start of the position is required;
•An innovative and meaningful research agenda that has strong potential for external funding;
•Demonstrated teaching experience at the university level in the study of religion or courses related to the mission of the lectureship;
•Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or commitment to do so as a faculty member at VCU.
Applicants must apply online and submit:
•Cover letter addressing candidate’s qualifications for the position
•Curriculum vitae
• Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Applicants selected for interviews will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation.

Preferred Qualifications: N/A

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement: As a preeminent national, urban, public research university and academic health center, Virginia Commonwealth University is committed to organizational diversity, equity and inclusion - an environment where all can thrive in their pursuit of excellence. We recognize that local contexts vary across departments and disciplines and that contributions to diversity, equity and inclusion may take many forms. Efforts to cultivate inclusive excellence might include, for example, creating opportunities for students, faculty, and staff systematically excluded and underrepresented in the U.S. academy and/or particular disciplines; educational outreach (particularly to under resourced and underserved communities); efforts to increase diversity, equity and inclusion at the university or in the local community; as well as one’s own lived experiences.

Applicants are requested to submit a Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (typically between 150-300 words) providing your career aspirations and contributions toward promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through this statement, you can share how your lived experiences, and academic and professional activities will impact your contributions to VCU’s mission of promoting equity and inclusion. For more information and examples, see Diversity Statement.

Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action university providing access to education and employment without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), political affiliation, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or disability. Women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

For more information contact Andrew Chesnut, Sullivan Chair in the Catholic Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University.
Review of applications will begin January 16. Position open until filled.

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