Arvarh E. Strickland Distinguished Professorship in African American History and Culture, Associate/Full (Tenured)

The Departments of History and Black Studies at the University of Missouri invite applications for an endowed Professorship in African American History and Culture, to be jointly appointed. We prefer to hire at the rank of Full Professor, but will also consider applications from highly qualified Associates. In 1969, Arvarh E. Strickland became the first tenured African American faculty member at the University of Missouri when he joined the History Department. He later served as Department Chair, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs for the University of Missouri System, and Special Assistant to the University Chancellor. He was also instrumental in the development of the Black Studies Program at MU, twice serving as Program Director. He was a popular teacher who worked to encourage the recruitment of more Black faculty, staff, administrators, and students. After his retirement in 1996, his students, colleagues, friends, and family raised money to endow a Professorship in African American History and Black Studies that would honor his legacy. The first Strickland Professor was appointed in 1999.

The successful candidate for this endowed professorship will have a track record of distinguished scholarship, committed teaching in the area of African American History (which can include African Diaspora) and Black Studies, graduate student recruiting and mentorship experience, and a commitment to growing and promoting the impact of research on race and its influence on society through program building in Black Studies and African American history. That is, this candidate will also be prepared to play a leadership role in program development and in providing a presence that will continue to influence MU’s success rate in the inclusive recruitment of faculty and students. The successful candidate will be expected to teach four courses per year (two in each department), consisting of undergraduate courses and graduate seminars. The particular sub-field and time period are open.

The minimum qualifications for this position are a Ph.D. in History, Black Studies, or a related field. 

We will begin reviewing applications on November 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. Please apply online at: https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings (Job Opening ID 53099). Use the online application and be prepared to upload your (1) your CV; (2) a letter of application, describing your current research or creative activity, accomplishments, and future goals; and (3) the names and contact information for three references.

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement.  This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate. In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

If you have further questions, please send an email to the search committee chair, Sheri-Marie Harrison (harrisonsl@missouri.edu). Contact Andrew Longley (Andrew.longley@umsystem.edu) for any questions about the application process.

Appointment begins July 1, 2025.

This position is eligible for University benefits.  The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts.  For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo.