Chair of the Division of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Friends University invites applications for a full-time faculty member to serve as Chair of the Division of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) beginning in Fall 2024.  This position is a tenure-track, ten-month faculty appointment and reports to the Vice President of Academic Affairs.  The Division of STEM has recently added programs in Mechanical Engineering, Cyber Security, Conservation Science, and Computer Science and is positioned for future growth.  The university desires to hire an entrepreneurial leader who will be committed to close collaboration with the divisional faculty and the university administration to lead further STEM program expansion.  The university welcomes internal and external applications for the Chair position.  For external applicants, preference will be given to a Theoretical Mathematician.  Candidates should demonstrate a vision for the integration of the University’s Christian mission with education in the STEM fields. 

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY & THE COMMUNITY

Friends University offers a complement of traditional undergraduate majors, non-traditional adult degree-completion programs, and professional graduate programs.  Founded in 1898, the University is situated on a beautiful park-like campus in the heart of Wichita, Kansas.  Wichita is a vibrant urban city with all the charms of a small town.  Our great community offers something for everyone and is rich in arts, education, leisure, and commercial resources.

Friends University seeks to hire faculty who will embrace our mission and celebrate our commitment to equipping students to honor God in their personal, professional, and spiritual lives by adhering to the University’s RISE Core Values (Respect, Inclusion, Service and Excellence).  The mission of the University is:

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.

EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will:

·         Serve as Division Chair (entails a one-half load release for administrative responsibilities)

·         Teach 6 credits per semester (i.e, one-half teaching load)

·         Articulate a vision for integrating the University’s Christian mission with STEM education

·         Be able to demonstrate evidence of a history of exemplary university-level teaching experience

·         Collaborate with internal and external constituencies to promote the University’s STEM programs and recruit students for the programs

·         Be committed to the development of external partnerships in order to promote collaboration and partnership between STEM programs and community organizations

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The successful candidate will hold at least a master’s degree in a STEM-related field and have previous leadership experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

A doctoral degree in a STEM-related field is strongly preferred.  The University also prefers to hire an individual with three or more years of higher education leadership experience in a position such as division chair, department chair, or program director.  Ideally, candidates will be able to demonstrate a history of success in new program development and fostering growth of existing programs.  In the case of external candidates, a doctoral degree in Mathematics or a closely related field and the ability to teach theoretical mathematics at the university level is strongly preferred. 

Rank and salary are commensurate with education and experience.

Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references.

Please visit our employment site at www.friends.edu/employment  to apply.  Only applications submitted through this Friends University website application process will be accepted.

Friends University aspires to be a model of excellence in higher education. As an expression of our Christian faith, we aim to prepare our students for success in a diverse and interconnected world by providing transformative learning experiences that embrace different viewpoints. As we seek individuals to join our Friends University community, we encourage candidates who share our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion to apply. Join us as we continue on this journey towards a more just and inclusive future for all.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Friends University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.