Description
Position Overview
The Department of English at the University of the South invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor in American Literature, beginning August 2026. The department seeks candidates specializing in modern and contemporary American literature, with particular expertise in African American literature.
Position Appointment Details:
- One-year sabbatical replacement position
- Visiting Assistant Professor (non-tenure track)
Primary responsibilities include:
- Teaching a total of six courses over the academic year
- Offering a combination of upper-level courses (e.g., African American Literature, Toni Morrison) and introductory courses such as English 101 (literature and composition)
- Designing course content aligned with departmental needs and the candidate’s area of expertise
- Contributing to the department’s undergraduate teaching mission
Supplemental Information:
The Sewanee English Department is committed to supporting its visiting and junior faculty members, as well as supporting faculty from underrepresented groups; the English Department has specific plans for the mentorship of VAPs in both their teaching and research, including classroom observations and syllabus preparation.
The University of the South, familiarly known as “Sewanee,” is home to a nationally recognized College of Arts and Sciences and a School of Theology. Sewanee is distinguished by its dedication to cultivate academic excellence, community values, and environmental stewardship that produces informed, self-aware, and participatory citizens for our democracy and servant-leaders for the world. Nestled on 13,000 acres atop Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau, the University offers both a uniquely beautiful setting and convenient access to nearby cities—Chattanooga, Nashville, and Huntsville. The University is affiliated with the Episcopal Church and seeks to be a place where individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences find support, opportunity, and purpose.
Support in the Hiring Process
If you have questions about a position or need assistance filing an application, or if you are a person with a disability and would like to request an accommodation in the application and interview process, please contact Human Resources at 931.598.1381 or hr@sewanee.edu.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of the South is an equal-opportunity institution, dedicated to treating all applicants fairly and fostering a welcoming environment for employees and students alike.
Requirements
Attributes of a Successful Candidate
A successful candidate will:
- Demonstrate expertise in modern and contemporary American literature, with a focus on African American literature
- Show evidence of effective undergraduate teaching
- Exhibit a commitment to inclusive pedagogy and engagement with diverse student populations
Qualifications:
Required: Ph.D. in English or a closely related field by the time of appointment
Required: Experience in and commitment to undergraduate teaching
Application Materials Required (Preliminary Review)
Applicants must submit the following materials through the University of the South employment portal (jobs.sewanee.edu)
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Graduate transcripts (unofficial accepted)
- Three confidential letters of recommendation
- Review of applications will begin promptly and continue until the position is filled.
Application Deadline:
Evaluation of applications will begin May 15, 2026, and continue until the position is filled
