Assistant Teaching Professor of Dance
Ball State University
Job Description
We seek an individual with innovative ideas about the teaching and practice of dance technique, with a commitment to interdisciplinary inquiry and entrepreneurial learning practices within the art of dance. This individual will play an active and vital role as a teacher within the dance area, while also serving components of the theatre program and the general student population. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellence in inclusive approaches in the areas of pedagogy and dance history, and expertise in at least two technique areas including, but not limited to, hip hop, commercial forms, West African, somatic practices/techniques (yoga, Pilates, etc.), ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and musical theatre dance. Their teaching practices should align with the mission and strategic plans of Ball State University, the College of Fine Arts, and the Department of Theatre and Dance.
Faculty members are also expected to function as collaborative, innovative, inclusive and adaptive members of the College of Fine Arts community, both within and beyond one’s home unit. All College of Fine Arts faculty are expected to be quality teachers, productive in creative and/or scholarly work, engaged in public service activities, and contributors to the Ball State and Muncie communities and beyond.
Responsibilities include the ability to teach all levels of pedagogy and dance education courses, dance history, and expertise in at least two technique areas including, but not limited to, hip hop, commercial, West African, somatic practices/techniques (yoga, Pilates, etc.), ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and musical theatre dance.
A strong commitment to both the Department’s Dance in the Schools program and the creation of new courses and pedagogies within the University Core Curriculum is also a critical aspect of the position.
Choreographic opportunities exist within the production season within the dance program. Additional opportunities may exist for faculty performance.
Strong mentorship skills, significant professional experience as either a choreographer or dancer, and the ability to choreograph for the dance area when applicable is needed.
At Ball State University, Inclusiveness and freedom of expression are a part of our enduring values and inform all of our efforts. We encourage applicants to familiarize themselves with our Inclusive Excellence Plan to learn more about our commitment and to identify how you might contribute to these efforts.
Duties & Responsibilities: Responsibilities include the ability to teach all levels of pedagogy and dance education courses, dance history, and expertise in at least two technique areas including, but not limited to, hip hop, commercial, West African, somatic practices/techniques (yoga, Pilates, etc.), ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and musical theatre dance.
A strong commitment to both the Department’s Dance in the Schools program and the creation of new courses and pedagogies within the University Core Curriculum is also a critical aspect of the position.
Choreographic opportunities exist within the production season within the dance program. Additional opportunities may exist for faculty performance.
Strong mentorship skills, significant professional experience as either a choreographer or dancer, and the ability to choreograph for the dance area when applicable is needed.
Minimum Qualifications: Master’s degree in dance or related discipline or equivalent professional experience completed by date of employment.
One year of teaching experience at the university/college level.
Experience in dance pedagogy, dance history, and dance education.
Expertise in at least two technique areas including, but not limited to, hip hop, commercial, West African, somatic practices/techniques (yoga, Pilates, etc.), ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and musical theatre dance.
The ability to serve as a recruiter and advocate on a National level for the BFA Dance Program.
Candidates for searches must have current authorization to be employed in the U.S. without employer sponsorship.
Preferred Qualifications: M.F.A or Ph.D. in Dance.
Three years of teaching experience at the university/college level.
Substantial experience as a dance educator within the elementary and secondary schools.
Choreographer and/or performer with established dance companies in major National and Regional dance or theatre venues.
Significant connections and recognitions within the professional dance industry.
Apply online at: https://bsu.peopleadmin.com/postings/30464. Include the following documents with your application: portfolio, curriculum vitae, and cover letter addressed to Bill Jenkins. In the Applicant Documents section of this application, please provide an inclusive excellence statement describing how you would contribute to the development of a diverse and inclusive learning community at Ball State University through your teaching, research, and/or service. Please include examples of your contributions when possible. Word limit 500.
The option to upload transcripts is available. Original, official transcripts showing the highest related degree earned is required at the time of hire (even if obtained at BSU). Degree verification will be conducted.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will be accepted through May 17, 2022.
Ball State University is located in Muncie, Indiana, on an attractive campus 45 miles northeast of Indianapolis. Approximately 22,000 graduate and undergraduate students enroll in one of eight academic colleges that offer 120 undergraduate programs. We offer more than 140 master’s, doctoral, certificate, and specialist degrees, with many of them ranking among the best in the nation. Ball State aspires to be the model of the most student-centered and community-engaged of the 21st century public research universities, transforming entrepreneurial learners into impactful leaders – committed to improving the quality of life for all.
The Ball State way is rooted in the Beneficence Pledge – a commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarship, honesty and integrity, social responsibility, gratitude and valuing the intrinsic worth of each member of our community. Ball State students, faculty and staff are empowered in a culture that believes in them and demands they believe in themselves. They are partners in an innovative, immersive approach to education. They are supported by living and learning facilities that enable intellectual curiosity. We graduate scholars who are changing the world, and we’ve dedicated our University to do the same.
The university offers an excellent wellness program and extensive benefits offerings to include a generous paid time off package and paid parental leave. For further information regarding benefits please visit: https://cms.bsu.edu/About/AdministrativeOffices/HumanResources/Jobs/Benefits-and-Community/Faculty
Ball State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that is strongly and actively committed to diversity within its community. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other legally protected status.