Professor of Digital and Sports Media Communication

The University of Lynchburg is a nationally recognized private university where students gain a greater heart for humanity and a mindset of individual growth. Here, thought-provoking learning ignites change in each individual, and the world.

Founded in 1903, a handful of professors instructed fewer than 60 students in the halls of a former resort hotel. There were eight people in the first graduating class. Since then, we’ve grown as a community and as a university with over 2,500 students and more than 20,000 alumni around the world. We evolved from a small liberal arts college to a comprehensive university in 2018. At every turn, we ask ourselves: How can we best serve our students? In turn, we ask our students: How can you best serve the world?

Instructor of Digital and Sports Media Communication
University of Lynchburg
Department of Communication Studies

Position Start Date: July 1, 2026

Institution Overview

The University of Lynchburg is a comprehensive, nationally recognized institution located in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. With a strong commitment to experiential learning and student success, the University fosters an inclusive community that values innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence across its undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

Position Summary

The Department of Communication Studies invites applications for an open-rank, tenure-track faculty position in Digital and Sports Media Communication beginning July 1, 2026. We seek a dynamic scholar-teacher who can bridge the evolving landscape of digital media with the growing field of sports communication. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in areas such as multimedia production, digital content creation, sports journalism/broadcasting, or related fields.

Responsibilities

Teaching (Primary Responsibility)
The successful candidate will teach a 4/4 course load per academic year, which may include:

• Undergraduate courses in sports media, digital journalism and multimedia production
• Development of new courses that reflect emerging trends in digital and sports media
• Integration of experiential learning opportunities, including partnerships with university athletics and local media organizations
• Advising and mentoring undergraduate students in academic and career development
• Supervision of student internships, independent studies, and capstone projects

Scholarship
The candidate is expected to maintain an active and independent research or production agenda appropriate to rank, including:

• Peer-reviewed publications, creative productions, or professional presentations in digital and sports media communication
• Pursuit of external funding opportunities when applicable
• Engagement with professional organizations and conferences in the field
• Collaboration with students on research and creative projects

Service
The candidate will contribute to the university and broader academic community through:

• Service on departmental, college, and university committees
• Participation in program assessment and curriculum development
• Engagement with professional organizations and disciplinary communities
• Contribution to university recruitment, retention, and community outreach initiatives

• Masters Degree in Communication, Media Studies, Journalism, Sports Communication, or closely related field
• Demonstrated expertise in digital media and sports communication through coursework, research, or professional experience
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness or strong potential for excellence in teaching at the undergraduate level
• Commitment to working with diverse student populations
• Record of or demonstrated potential for scholarly productivity or professional production appropriate to rank

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional experience in sports media, digital journalism, broadcasting, or content creation
• Experience teaching courses in sports media, digital communication, or multimedia production
• Proficiency with industry-standard digital media production tools and platforms
• Track record of mentoring undergraduate students in research or creative projects
• Experience developing community partnerships or experiential learning opportunities
• Active engagement with professional organizations in communication or sports media

Appointment and Compensation

Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The University of Lynchburg offers a competitive benefits package including health insurance, retirement contributions, tuition benefits, and professional development support.

Application Process

Applications should include:

1. Letter of application addressing qualifications for the position
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Teaching philosophy statement (2 pages maximum)
4. Evidence of teaching effectiveness (course evaluations, sample syllabi, or teaching portfolio)
5. Research or production statement (2 pages maximum)
6. Sample of scholarly work or creative production
7. Three letters of recommendation

Review of applications will begin [date] and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by [priority date] will receive full consideration.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Lynchburg is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, veteran status, disability, or other protected categories.

For questions about this position, please contact [search committee chair name and email]. To apply, visit [application portal URL].