Department Chairperson for Department of Social Sciences

Gardner-Webb University • Boiling Springs, NC

107d

About The Position

Gardner-Webb University invites applications for the position of Chair of the Department of Social Sciences to begin Fall 2025/Spring 2026. We seek a dynamic and experienced leader with a terminal degree in Sociology who is committed to academic excellence, faculty development, student success, and community engagement. The Department of Social Sciences, part of the College of Arts and Sciences, houses degree programs in History, Political Science, and Sociology and plays a vital role in the university's mission to cultivate intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and a commitment to service. Gardner-Webb University, located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, offers a vibrant academic environment with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and the Greenville-Spartanburg region. The tenure-track position carries academic rank commensurate with experience and qualifications. The successful candidate will provide visionary leadership for the department while maintaining an active role in teaching, research, and service.

Requirements

• An earned doctorate or terminal degree in Sociology or closely related discipline from an accredited institution.
• Evidence of high-quality undergraduate teaching effectiveness, mentoring, and advising.
• Proven ability and/or record of research and scholarship in the discipline.
• Ability to maintain an active research agenda and demonstrate a willingness to engage students in undergraduate research.
• Demonstrate effective leadership, organization, communication, and collaboration skills, with experience fostering a collegial academic environment.
• Exhibit a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflected in teaching, research, and/or community engagement.
• Demonstrate a passion for community outreach and engagement, aligning with Gardner-Webb's mission and values.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to Christian Higher Education and the university's faith-based learning environment.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in academic leadership, including administrative roles, faculty supervision experience, and budgetary oversight.
• Experience managing undergraduate programs and implementing innovative curriculum and student success initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Teaching undergraduate courses in Sociology at both introductory and advanced levels.
• Advising Sociology majors, supporting their academic and professional development.
• Serving as the representative of the Department of Social Sciences within the college, the university and the broader community.
• Provide leadership and guidance for the department affairs, including faculty development, curriculum planning, and student engagement.
• Acting as a liaison between departmental faculty and university administration to advance the department's mission and goals.
• Support faculty development in teaching, research, and professional growth while encouraging program innovation.
• Oversee the departmental operations, including budget management, program assessment, adjunct faculty coordination, course scheduling, and policy implementation.
• Collaborating with Enrollment Management to support student recruitment and retention initiatives.
• Partner with Advancement and Alumni relations to foster community partnerships, fundraising and grant opportunities.
• Serve on the College of Arts & Sciences' Council and contribute to broader university initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree