Chair, Auerbach School of Occupational Therapy (ASOT)

SPALDING UNIVERSITY•Louisville, KY

24d

About The Position

Spalding University invites applications for the position of Chair of the Auerbach School of Occupational Therapy (ASOT). This leadership role offers the opportunity to guide a mission-driven program committed to academic excellence, innovation, service, and student success. Spalding University Situated in the heart of downtown Louisville, Kentucky’s largest city, Spalding University combines a rich history and a commitment to community service as we attract students who desire a high-quality education in a very personalized setting. An engaged faculty serves nearly 1,500 students at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, providing real-world learning in liberal and professional studies. Since 1814, Spalding has been serving its students and the Louisville community in the tradition of its founders, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, with a spirit of service, inclusiveness, and compassion. With a total enrollment of approximately 1,500, Spalding University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award more than 65 degrees at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist’s, and doctoral levels. Offering six doctoral-level programs with a significant research component, Spalding has been recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as a doctoral research university. Auerbach School of Occupational Therapy Spalding University’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program in the Auerbach School of Occupational Therapy (ASOT) prepares students to meet the needs of the times with compassionate action based upon best rehabilitation principles and evidence-based practice through community outreach, service, and research. The OTD offers students the opportunity to advance their preparation and application of in-depth knowledge in practice skills, research skills, administration, leadership, program and policy development, advocacy, education, and the application of theory. Position Summary The ASOT Chair serves as the academic and administrative leader of the department, responsible for fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment for faculty, staff, and students. The Chair provides strategic leadership, oversees academic quality and accreditation, manages departmental operations, and represents the program within the University and in broader professional communities.

Requirements

Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy or a related discipline (PhD, OTD, EdD, ScD, or equivalent) awarded by an institution that is accredited by a USDE-recognized institutional accrediting agency.
Current NBCOT certification and eligibility for licensure as an Occupational Therapist in Kentucky (or ability to obtain licensure within a specified timeframe).
Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in occupational therapy, including clinical practice, administrative experience (program planning and implementation, personnel management and evaluation, and budgeting).
Minimum of at least 4 years of full-time academic experience in higher education including a record of teaching excellence, scholarship, and service consistent with senior faculty appointment.
Leadership experience in academic program administration, curriculum development, accreditation processes, and faculty supervision.
Strong understanding of ACOTE accreditation standards and program evaluation practices.
Evidence of effective interpersonal, communication, and collaborative leadership skills.
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, service learning, and mission-centered education, consistent with the values of Spalding University.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience as a department chair, program director, or associate chair.
Experience supporting faculty development and mentoring junior faculty.
Demonstrated success in community partnerships, grant writing, or professional leadership roles.

Responsibilities

Provide vision and leadership that promote excellence in teaching, research, and service within the department.
Articulate departmental goals and advocate for the program across the University and external communities.
Maintain a climate that supports creativity, innovation, and professional growth.
Communicate relevant information from the Dean and Provost, and other administrators to faculty and staff.
Represent the department in matters related to educational policy, academic standards, and ethical conduct.
Oversee recruitment, hiring, evaluation, and development of faculty and staff.
Recommend appointments, promotions, merit increases, and terminations in alignment with university policies and the Spalding University Faculty Handbook.
Ensure all faculty and staff understand criteria for appointments, promotion, reappointment, and tenure.
Uphold human resources policies and ensure adherence to departmental expectations.
Assign teaching loads and departmental duties consistent with faculty strengths, FTE guidelines, and program needs.
Oversee preparation of course schedules and classroom assignments.
Coordinate student advising assignments and supervise Graduate Assistants/Doctoral Associates.
Develop and manage the departmental budget in accordance with university procedures.
Maintain stewardship of departmental property, space, and facilities.
Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Report unresolved faculty or staff performance concerns to relevant administrators and recommend appropriate action.
Engage faculty and students in shared governance through meetings, committees, and communication.
Lead recruitment, advising, development, retention, and timely graduation of high-quality students.
Oversee continuous program evaluation and curriculum development, includes exploring addition of a master’s level Occupational Therapy program to the portfolio, Ensure program responsiveness to emerging technologies and professional standards.
Lead and support accreditation efforts.
Promote and support faculty scholarship, research, and professional development.
Model Spalding University’s mission and values through compassion-centered leadership and community engagement.
Encourage faculty and students to participate in service-learning and initiatives that promote peace and social justice.
Participate in University committees and governance.
Represent the ASOT program at regional and national professional venues.