Description

The Department of Communication, at the University of Indianapolis, invites applications for a Professor of Practice/Assistant Professor position that will serve as the Director of the UIndy Speech & Debate Team. In addition to running the team, the position includes a 3/3 load of teaching classes in the Department of Communication. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in and able to teach in the areas of sports communication, media, public relations, and/or journalism.

The UIndy Speech & Debate Team is a nationally and internationally ranked learning-centered community that competes in speech and debate events to enhance students’ communication, research, and public speaking skills. The team is active in both individual events and national organizations. On average, the team includes 10–15 students from a variety of majors that enroll in COMM 130 Speech Team class. The team travels to approximately 6–8 tournaments an academic year, plus additional extended competition travel for state and national championships. 

Department Mission Statement:  The Department of Communication at the University of Indianapolis seeks to prepare students to become responsible producers and consumers of communication in its various forms. The Department works cooperatively, through applied learning guided by sound theoretic practice, to create an integrated approach to the discipline. We seek to serve multiple communities, including the UIndy student body, the University of Indianapolis community, the Indianapolis community at large, and the communication discipline.

Range of Classes

Argumentation and Debate
Public Speaking
Sports PR
PR Ethics
PR Writing
Media Writing
Digital Storytelling

Requirements

Experience  

At least 1–2 years experience coaching speech and debate
A record of successful university-teaching experience
 

Education

At least a Master's degree in communication or a related field. Preference will be given to terminal degrees.
 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

In addition to a 3/3 load for teaching, the primary duties as the Director of the Speech & Debate Team include:

Create a competitive yearly budget plan and manage throughout
Process all financial paperwork for competitive trips 
Manage scholarship allocation
Transport the team to competitions (often driving a van) approximately once a month
Run the team during regular class hours
Coach individual students outside of class hours
Supervise assistant part-time coaches
Manage all team marketing efforts in coordination with the chair of the department
Host annual tournament at UIndy 
Coordinate with ProEdge, Presidential Ambassadors, and other university-wide initiatives 
Host university-wide showcase
Conduct speech and debate outreach to K-12 schools
 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

Follow the guidance and direction of supervisor(s).
Must have an active driver's license in good standing.
Evening and weekend work required.
Demonstrate respectful, ethical, responsible behavior.
Abide by the University’s policies, procedures, and rules.
Perform employee responsibilities as detailed in employee handbooks and policies.
Demonstrate regular and predictable attendance and punctuality.
Other duties, including special projects, as required or assigned.