Washington and Lee University: Journalism & Mass Communications Department

The Department of Journalism and Mass Communications at Washington and Lee University seeks three adjunct professors to teach: Public Relations Writing, Reporting on the Economy, Producing for Broadcast and Online and Broadcast Announcing Practicum. The appointments begin August 2021. These are temporary, adjunct positions and adjunct professors will be expected to teach specific courses (details below). Courses shall be offered in-person in Lexington, VA and no relocation funding is offered. These positions do not carry benefits.

Washington and Lee University is a highly selec­tive liberal arts college of about 1,800 undergraduate students located in Virginia’s scenic Shenandoah Valley. Our department is committed to preparing our students for global communications by creating an educational environment that values diverse people and their ideas. To fulfill our mission as a liberal arts college, we continually strive to foster a diverse campus community, which recognizes the value of all persons regardless of identity. We seek candidates who can effectively mentor underrepresented minority students.

Candidates should have substantial professional experience in journalism and/or public relations. Master’s degree in Journalism or related field required. Specific details of the three adjunct positions follow.

Reporting on the Economy: This adjunct teaches a 3-credit course for a 12-week term on the fundamentals of how journalists cover the U.S. economy. Specifics include reporting and writing longer news features on topics such as the Federal Reserve, regional economic trends and unemployment. Background as a business reporter is a must for this position.  

Producing for Broadcast and Online: The adjunct instructor will teach an immersive course in which students serve as producers for both live TV and a website. The centerpiece, using the teaching hospital model, is a twice weekly live broadcast on cable TV and accompanying website. The adjunct instructor will also teach the one-credit Broadcast Announcing Practicum, in which students serve as anchors for those newscasts. The instructor will also work closely with the professor teaching our signature Beat Reporting course, as well as the students who serve on the work-study control room staff. The instructor should have professional live television producing experience and familiarity with news website production.

Public Relations Writing: This adjunct teaches a 3-credit course for two, 12-week terms. The course teaches persuasive writing used by public relations practitioners to reach all audiences. Students also use video and social media for press releases, media pitches, public service announcements, newsletters and press kits.

Applications should include:

• a cover letter
• curriculum vitae
• names and contact information for three references

Please upload all materials in PDF format to http://apply.interfolio.com/84324. The application deadline is April 1, 2021.

The university requires employees to become fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and new employees must provide proof of at least their first shot prior to the first day of employment. Individuals may seek a medical or a religious exemption to the vaccination requirement.