Professor of Media Communications (Open Rank)

HANNIBAL-LAGRANGE UNIVERSITY - HANNIBAL, MISSOURI

Address of Job Location: 2800 Palmyra Rd., Hannibal, MO 63401

Website page of the Job Posting

Job Summary:

The Open Rank Professor of Communications is a full-time faculty member responsible for teaching, mentoring students, and contributing to the development of a forward-looking communications curriculum that prepares graduates for the ever-shifting landscape of the field. As Hannibal-LaGrange University grows its communication program, this position plays a key role in shaping academically relevant offerings across areas such as media, digital communication, public relations, organizational communication, and strategic messaging — with marketing communication as a valued area of growth.

The professor integrates strong theoretical foundations with applied practice, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and professional communication skills necessary for leadership and generational impact in a rapidly evolving communication landscape. Through an engaged, student centered approach, the faculty member contributes to a collaborative learning community committed to educational relevance, helping students build the adaptability and breadth of knowledge needed to thrive across diverse communication careers.

In alignment with the University’s Christian mission and core values, the successful candidate models teaching grounded in a biblical worldview, integrates faith and learning, and supports the holistic development of students; intellectually, professionally, and spiritually, preparing graduates to serve others and shape their communities.

Employee must possess a vibrant, personal Christian faith including a clear testimony of Christian conversion and be actively involved in an evangelical, preferably Southern Baptist, church.

Job Responsibilities:

Teach undergraduate courses in media and digital communication, using effective and engaging pedagogical practices.

Contribute to the ongoing development, assessment, and refinement of curriculum supporting an evolving program, ensuring academic quality, educational relevance, and alignment with industry trends.

Integrate theoretical foundations with applied learning experiences that prepare students for professional and service-oriented careers in digital and media environments.

Mentor and advise students academically and professionally, supporting their intellectual growth, career readiness, and personal development within a Christian learning community.

Incorporate faith-learning integration through teaching grounded in a biblical worldview and support the spiritual formation of students in alignment with the University’s mission and core values.

Participate in divisional and university service; including faculty meetings, committees, assessment activities, and campus events.

Support experiential learning opportunities such as internships, service-learning, student media projects, or community partnerships that enhance student learning and community engagement.

Maintain awareness of emerging digital communication technologies, platforms, and best practices to ensure instructional content remains current and effective.

Fulfill other duties as assigned in support of the mission and academic goals of Hannibal-LaGrange University.

Job Requirements:

Knowledge of media and digital communication principles, including digital storytelling, media production, strategic messaging, and digital marketing, with awareness of emerging trends and technologies.

Ability to integrate theoretical foundations with applied, experiential learning approaches that prepare undergraduate students for professional and service-oriented careers in digital and media-related fields.

Demonstrated commitment to effective undergraduate teaching, assessment, and student mentorship within a Christian higher education environment.

Ability to integrate faith and learning through teaching grounded in a biblical worldview and consistent with the mission and core values of Hannibal-LaGrange University.

Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills, with the ability to contribute to curriculum development, program assessment, and university service.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND TRAINING

Required:
Completed master’s or doctoral degree in media communications, digital communication, digital media, marketing, journalism, communication studies, or a closely related field; OR

A minimum of 18 graduate-level credit hours in communication, media, digital communication, or a closely related field, combined with relevant industry experience.

Demonstrated ability or potential to teach effectively at the undergraduate level.

Commitment to the mission, values, and Christian identity of Hannibal-LaGrange University.

Preferred:
Doctoral degree in a relevant field.

Previous teaching experience in higher education.

Professional or industry experience in digital communication, media production, digital marketing, or related areas.

Expiration Date of Job Posting: October 30, 2026