The University of Missouri invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of the School of Visual Studies (SVS). SVS is housed in the College of Arts and Science, the largest and most academically diverse unit on campus, and the Director will report to the Dean of A&S.

SVS was formed in 2017 with the merger of four programs – art, art history, digital storytelling, and film studies. This mission of the School is to explore the visual arts in their full complexity through interdisciplinary studies in history, cultural theory, and foundations of practice.

The new Director will have the opportunity to build from a solid foundation of collaborative and interdisciplinary research and creative activities in the School’s core areas. This individual will lead the strategic, programmatic, financial, fundraising, and management operations that support the mission and vision of SVS, its role within the University of Missouri, and our engagement with local, regional, and global stakeholders. This opportunity requires a builder, a futurist, a storyteller, and a results-oriented leader who can develop strong relationships with internal and external constituencies.

Specific duties of the Director include but are not limited to:
• Serve as the chief academic officer for SVS.
• Oversight of operations and strategic planning for SVS.
• Lead and manage SVS faculty and staff.
• Steward existing and new community engagement programs, advisory board, alumni, donor and corporate relationships. Set strategic advancement goals for SVS.
• Maintain personal research/creative activities practice.
• Foster an environment of welcoming inclusivity for students, staff, and faculty at the University of Missouri.

The new Director will hold a terminal degree in an art-related field and have a record of research or creative works and teaching suitable for the appointment of full professor with tenure. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to experimentation and innovation including the development of interdisciplinary initiatives through teaching, research, and partnerships. Knowledge and appreciation for studio art, art history, moving-image and digital media as well as a demonstrated commitment to building a diverse and inclusive culture are required.


The University of Missouri is fully committed to achieving the goal of a diverse and inclusive academic community of faculty, staff and students. We seek individuals who are committed to this goal and our core campus values of respect, responsibility, discovery and excellence. The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer.

Please apply on line at: http://hrs.missouri.edu/find-a-job/academic (Job Opening ID# 28811).
Use the online application and be prepared to upload a detailed curriculum vitae, a letter of application or statement summarizing experience in higher education and arts administration, personal vision, relevant leadership experience, portfolio of research/creative works, commitment to inclusive excellence and diversity, and the names and contact information for 3 references. Initial review of applications will begin on February 28, 2019 and the position will remain open until filled. Applicants may contact the Chair of the Search Committee Lael Keiser at KeiserL@missouri.edu with any questions about the job duties. Contact Human Resource Services (muhrs@missouri.edu) for any questions about the application process.