Goodnight Distinguished Professor in Early Literacy

Buffkin / Baker • Fayetteville, NC

46d • Onsite

About The Position

Fayetteville State University (FSU), a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina system, is seeking an accomplished scholar, teacher, and mentor to serve as the Goodnight Distinguished Professor in Early Literacy. This endowed faculty position within the FSU College of Education is established to support and enhance research, teaching, and service in the field of early literacy. The role is critical to driving impactful initiatives that improve literacy outcomes among young learners, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Requirements

• An earned doctorate in Reading/Literacy Education or a closely related field.
• Tenured (or tenurable) at the Full Professor level.
• Nationally recognized record of scholarly excellence and research in early literacy.
• Demonstrated excellence in university-level teaching, mentoring, and leadership.
• Proven record of securing and managing external funding.
• Experience in building partnerships with schools, families, and communities.
• Expertise in the science of reading and early literacy theory and practice.
• Grant writing and project management skills.
• Effective teaching and mentoring skills.
• Culturally responsive pedagogy.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a visionary leader in the field of early literacy at the local, state, and national levels.
• Develop and sustain a robust research agenda in early literacy education.
• Teach and mentor undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students in literacy education.
• Lead and expand initiatives such as the College's Reading Clinic, including student clinical experiences and outreach to families and communities.
• Work collaboratively with school districts and agencies to promote literacy development among children, especially those from low-income and rural backgrounds.
• Secure external funding to support research, programs, and community-based literacy efforts.
• Disseminate research findings widely through publications, presentations, and public engagement.
• Promote and model culturally relevant and evidence-based practices in literacy instruction.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree