AssistantAssociate Professor of Studio Arts

Assistant/Associate Professor of Studio Arts

School of Arts & Humanities Fine Arts

Academic Affairs

Tsaile Campus

Duty Schedule:

15 credit hours per semester 30 hours per academic year. Summer Adjunct work is possible.

Summary/Objective of Position:

The Assistant/Associate Professor of Studio Arts at Diné College is responsible for delivering innovative culturally grounded instruction across a range of studio art courses. This position supports student growth through high-quality teaching academic advising and mentorship while contributing to curriculum development program assessment and community-engaged initiatives. The faculty member will collaborate with colleagues to strengthen the Studio Arts program uphold Diné Colleges mission and serve on academic communities that support institutional development.

Description of Essential Functions of the Position

Disclaimer: This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities duties skills efforts requirements or working conditions associated with the job. While this list is intended to reflect the current job accurately management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Teaching and Instruction:
  • Teach introductory and advanced studio arts courses (2D 3D and related media) using innovative inclusive and culturally appropriate pedagogies.
  • Develop course materials that support diverse learning styles and integrate Diné cultural knowledge where appropriate.
  • Maintain an active organized and safe studio environment.
• Advising and Mentorship:
  • Advise Studio Arts majors and minors on academic pathways transfer planning and career goals.
  • Mentor students in developing artistic skills portfolios and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Curriculum and Program Development:
  • Develop revise and update curriculum to strengthen the Studio Arts program.
  • Participate in short- and long-term program planning aligned with college and community needs.
• Assessment and Academic Service:
  • Conduct course-level and program-level assessments to improve student learning and document outcomes.
  • Serve on faculty committees and participate in department and college governance.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development.
• Community Engagement:
  • Participate in outreach recruitment and community events that promote the arts and support the colleges mission.
  • Foster partnerships with local school cultural organizations and tribal communities.

Minimum:

• MFA in Studio Arts or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience teaching at the college level or clear evidence of teaching potential.
• A strong studio practice with expertise in one or more areas of 2D or 3D art.

Preferred:

• Two years experience working with tribal colleges Native American communities or Indigenous-centered curricula.
• Knowledge of Diné culture language and philosophy or willingness to learn and integrate these elements respectfully.
• Experience in curriculum development assessment and academic service.

Knowledge:

• Broad knowledge of foundational and advanced techniques in 2D and 3D studio arts (e.g. drawing painting printmaking sculpture ceramics digital media or related areas).
• Understanding of contemporary art practices and the ability to contextualize them within local and global cultural frameworks.
• Knowledge of best practices in studio safety equipment use and materials handling.
• Familiarity with assessment methods and curriculum design in higher education.
• Awareness of Indigenous arts aesthetics and cultural protocols especially those relevant to Diné communities or a commitment to learning and applying this knowledge respectfully.
• Knowledge of student-centered and culturally responsive teaching approaches.

Skills:

• Commitment to culturally responsive and student-centered teaching.
• Strong communication and collaborative skills.
• Ability to mentor diverse learners and support their academic and creative development.
• Organizational skills for managing studios materials and equipment.
• Flexibility creativity and openness to interdisciplinary and community-based approaches.
• Dedication to the mission and values of Diné College.

Abilities:

• Ability to design and deliver engaging studio-based instruction that integrates hands-on learning critique and creative exploration.
• Ability to work effectively with students from diverse cultural linguistic and educational backgrounds.
• Ability to incorporate Diné cultural principles (Saah Naghai Bikeh Hozhoon) into teaching and program development in a respectful and informed manner.
• Ability to manage multiple courses deadlines and responsibilities simultaneously.
• Ability to maintain oversight of safe functional studio spaces including equipment maintenance and material ordering.
• Ability to collaborate with faculty staff administrators and community partners in planning and implementing academic and outreach initiatives.
• Ability to use digital tools and learning technologies relevant to studio arts instruction.

Physical Requirements Work Environment & Travel:

• Set up and operate technology for both in-person and remote instruction including computers projectors and video conferencing tools.
• Respond to emergency situations in a classroom setting.
• Suitable workspace for remote teaching including the setup of video and audio equipment.
• Willingness to travel to various campuses across the Navajo Nation.

Other Requirement(s):

• Pass a comprehensive background check including criminal history and verification of educational records.
• Valid drivers license in good standing with all relevant state and federal regulations including eligibility for employment in educational settings.

Required Experience:

IC