Warner Endowed Visiting Assistant Professor of Journalism

Position Information

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.

Position Title
Warner Endowed Visiting Assistant Professor of Journalism

Rank
Visiting Assistant Professor

Position Type
Full-Time Non-Tenure Track

College
College of Arts & Media

Department
Dept of Mass Communication

Open Date
12/12/2025

Position Details

About the Mass Communication Department:
The Department of Mass Communication at Sam Houston State University serves more than 500 students studying journalism, broadcast production, public relations, advertising, and film. Located in the Dan Rather Communications Building, it is home to 90.5 The Kat, Channel 7, Bearkat Student Media, The Houstonian, and the annual Heatwave Media and Film Festival.

The Department of Mass Communication at Sam Houston State University seeks applicants for the Phillip G. Warner Endowed Visiting Assistant Professor of Journalism position. We are seeking a highly motivated and energetic individual to mentor and inspire the next generation of media professionals. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in journalism, a passion for sports media, and a desire to contribute to the development of the department’s new concentration and minor programs. Areas of interest include sports writing, sports reporting, data-driven sports journalism, AI technology, social media, mobile tools, and other multimedia skills for covering sports and sports programs. The position begins in Fall 2026.

Key responsibilities include:

• Teach a 3/3 course load, including the media practicum, with the candidate’s specialty.
• Teach two or more different subjects, such as mass media writing, introduction to sports media, media and sports, or other related fields in sports journalism or sports production.
• Serve as a liaison to industry professionals, alumni, and community stakeholders.
• Collaborate with faculty to strengthen the department’s visibility and reputation.
• Develop and implement new courses that equip students with essential workforce readiness skills in the emerging media landscape.
• Participate in departmental and university service while maintaining active engagement in the field.

Educational Requirements for the Position

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as journalism, mass communication, or media studies) with a record of distinguished professional experience in sports journalism or sports media production. Minimum of five years of professional achievement in the media industry, with a proven track record of excellence. Clear potential for developing and teaching undergraduate courses to support the department’s new concentration and minor programs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience teaching in higher education.
• Prior experience supervising student organizations and media practicums.
• Experience developing and teaching undergraduate courses.
• Active in a professional organization.

Other Requirements for the Position

This visiting position is a renewable term appointment, typically ranging from 1–3 years. Renewal beyond three years may be considered based on program needs, performance, and strategic alignment with the department’s goals.

Special Instructions Summary

To ensure full consideration, applications must be submitted online and include a cover letter detailing the applicant’s qualifications, relevant experience, and interest in the position, a current CV, and contact information for three references addressed to Wojciech Lorenc (wlorenc@shsu.edu).

For Full Consideration, apply by March 13, 2026; the position will remain open until filled.