Assistant Professor in African American Literature

The English Department at Washington College invites applications for an Assistant Professor in African American Literature starting in August 2025. The desired area of expertise is open. Candidates who have additional expertise in American Studies, Multiethnic American literature, and/or Creative Writing are encouraged to indicate this in their materials.

Founded in 1782, Washington College is a selective liberal arts institution located in Chestertown, Maryland on a major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The College has a tradition of excellent undergraduate teaching, and the English Department is excited to sustain and further develop our diverse curricular offerings in African American literature. The Sophie Kerr endowment provides additional funds for trips, curricular development, and research. The College's Strategic Diversity Plan commits to professional development opportunities that support inclusive teaching. To learn more about the department, our curriculum, programs, and faculty, please visit our website.

Position Description

Small classes and high-impact, student-centered learning are hallmarks of the college. The position entails teaching three courses each semester, including First-Year Seminars, African American literature surveys, literature and composition classes, and upper-level seminars in the area of specialization. There are additional department and college service requirements.

Applications

Applicants must submit all the following application materials: (1) a cover letter, (2) a CV, (3) a statement that describes the candidate's teaching philosophy, research interests, and the ways they promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through their teaching, mentoring, and/or outreach. Review of applications will begin on November 1st. Application materials must be submitted through the college's employment portal.

Candidates selected for interviews will be asked to provide names and contact information for three references, a writing sample, and documentation of teaching excellence, including sample syllabi. It is the policy of Washington College to provide reasonable accommodations. If you require any accommodations to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact hr@washcoll.edu.

EEO Statement & Title IX

Washington College values diversity within our students, faculty, and staff, and strives to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people. Washington College does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state and/or local laws. We particularly encourage members of historically underrepresented groups, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community to apply for this position. For information on Washington College's Title IX compliance, please visit

https://www.washcoll.edu/title-ix/.

Employment is contingent upon completion of a successful background check and establishment of identity and verification of employment eligibility as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

Candidates must have a terminal degree in English, African/African American Studies, Black Studies, or a related discipline in hand before the position begins in August 2025.