Job Description / Duties

William Peace University seeks a strategic, student-centered leader to serve as Chair of the Exercise and Sport Science (ESS) Department at the rank of Associate Professor. Reporting to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Chair provides strategic academic leadership and oversight for undergraduate majors in Exercise and Sport Science, Sport and Fitness Studies, and Sport Management. The Chair cultivates and advances a distinctive departmental vision that prepares graduates for meaningful and successful careers and/or further study in health, wellness, sport, and related fields; leads faculty in developing innovative, immersive, high-impact curricula grounded in professional practice; and forges partnerships with schools, sport organizations, fitness and wellness centers, and healthcare providers that expand pathways from classroom to career. This position aligns ESS programs with institutional strategy, regional workforce and graduate-study needs, and evolving opportunities in the broader health, wellness, and sport sectors, including potential online and graduate offerings, while fostering an inclusive, collaborative environment for faculty and students. In addition to academic leadership responsibilities, the Chair teaches a reduced load and maintains an appropriate record of scholarship/professional activity and university service.

Qualifications / Required Skills

Minimum Qualifications:
-Earned master’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science, Kinesiology, or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution that clearly qualifies the candidate to teach in the ESS major.
-Academic credentials appropriate for appointment at the rank of associate professor, including a record of effective college‑level teaching, scholarly/professional activity, and service.
-At least two years of progressively responsible academic leadership or coordination experience (e.g., program director, clinical/field coordinator, or major initiative leadership) that demonstrates the capacity to think strategically, lead collaboratively, and promote growth.
-Experience with curriculum development and assessment in Exercise and Sport Science or closely related fields.
-Demonstrated success working collaboratively with faculty and staff in ways that build trust, foster shared ownership of departmental goals, and support an inclusive, student‑centered culture, reflecting strong communication and relationship‑building skills.

Additional Information

The priority deadline was 4/19 but we are still accepting applications.
https://peace.peopleadmin.com/postings/3008

Contact Information

Lynda Szymanski, Ph.D.
laszymanski@peace.edu