Dan Rather Endowed Visiting Assistant Professor in Journalism and Media

Date Posted	January 13, 2026
Industry	Academia
Specialty	Not Specified
Required Education	Bachelor's Degree
Job Status	Full-time
Salary	Not Specified

Description:

The Department of Mass Communication at Sam Houston State University invites applications for the Dan Rather Endowed Visiting Assistant Professor in Journalism and Media. The appointment will begin in Fall 2026.

We seek accomplished professionals with a distinguished record in journalism and media. Areas of expertise may include, but are not limited to, emerging media ethics, sports journalism, and the evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and journalism.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate proven leadership in newsrooms or broadcast journalism, possess a deep understanding of current and future media trends, and excel in producing, editing, and reporting across both traditional and emerging platforms. This role offers rich opportunities to collaborate with our award-winning student media outlets, such as The Houstonian, KSHU-FM, and Channel 7, while preparing students for success in today’s competitive media landscape.

The successful candidate will be well-connected within the industry and dedicated to building relationships that connect newsrooms and media leaders with students, faculty, and alumni at SHSU. Additionally, the role requires active engagement with the campus and Huntsville communities, along with contributions to program development and departmental initiatives.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Teach three classes a semester, including a media practicum within the candidate’s area of expertise.  Serve as a liaison to industry professionals, alumni, and community stakeholders. Organize guest speakers, workshops, and events that advance the department’s mission. Serve on departmental, college, and university committees as needed. Collaborate with faculty to enhance the department’s visibility and reputation. Develop and implement new courses that equip students with essential skills for workforce readiness.

Educational Requirements for the Position

Bachelor’s degree in mass communication, journalism, or a closely related field with a record of distinguished professional experience in journalism or media production.

Experience Required for the Position

Maintain strong connections within the media industry and an active presence in academic or professional organizations related to journalism and mass communication. Possess a minimum of five years of professional achievement in the media industry, demonstrating a proven track record of excellence.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience teaching in higher education,

Prior experience supervising student organizations and media practicums,

Active membership in professional organizations,

National or international recognition as a journalist, scholar, or media innovator, with a robust portfolio of published work, creative achievements, or industry contributions.

 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 Dr. Marcus Funk (mfunk@shsu.edu)

Applications should be submitted here.

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 blends research-focused and practice-oriented faculty of various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

About Sam Houston State University:

Located 40 miles north of suburban Houston, Sam Houston State University provides high-quality education, scholarship, and service to qualified students for the benefit of regional, state, national, and international constituencies. The university is classified as a High Research Activity university and a “Community Engaged” institution by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education. SHSU, a Hispanic Serving Institution, is a growing community serving over 21,000 students across three campuses in Huntsville, Conroe, and The Woodlands. For more information, visit https://www.shsu.edu.

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.

Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an “at will” employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code §51.215.

Apply

https://shsu.peopleadmin.com/postings/45802