Fletcher Jones Chair in Western Culture– Professor/Endowed Chair

Pepperdine University invites applications and nominations for the Fletcher Jones Chair of Western Civilization, a distinguished endowed faculty position dedicated to the study, teaching, and public advancement of the intellectual, cultural, political, and religious traditions that have shaped Western civilization. The Chair will provide scholarly and pedagogical leadership within Seaver College, engaging students in the great texts, ideas, and historical developments that inform contemporary life, while contributing to Pepperdine's mission of integrating faith, learning, and scholarship.

This is a senior appointment reserved for a scholar of national or international distinction whose research and teaching illuminate the foundations of Western thought, including but not limited to classical philosophy, political theory, literature, history, and the Christian tradition, and whose work models rigorous, values-engaged scholarship consistent with Pepperdine's Christian mission.

Key responsibilities include:

• Teaching undergraduate seminars in Great Books with the option of teaching courses aligned with disciplinary expertise.
• Pursue an active program of scholarly research and publication that advances public and academic understanding of Western intellectual traditions
• Provide thought leadership through public lectures, symposia, and engagement with broader university and community audiences
• Mentor students and junior faculty, fostering intellectual formation consistent with Pepperdine's mission
• Contribute to curriculum development, particularly in the established and evolving Great Books program
• Represent Pepperdine in relevant academic and public forums, enhancing the university's reputation in this field
• Participate in university service, including committee work and institutional initiatives related to the humanities
• Requirements include a Ph.D. or equivalent, a demonstrable commitment to excellent teaching, especially in general education; and an outstanding record of peer-reviewed scholarly publication generally commensurate with the rank of associate or full professor.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled; effective date of employment is August 1, 2027. For information on how to apply, please visit our website. For additional questions, please contact Paul Begin, chair of the search committee at paul.begin@pepperdine.edu.

Pepperdine University is a Christian university committed to the highest standards of academic excellence and enduring spiritual values. Seaver College, Pepperdine's undergraduate liberal arts college located on the Malibu campus, is known for its strong core curriculum, integration of faith and learning, and commitment to preparing students for purposeful lives of service and leadership.

The salary for this appointment will range from $112,659 - $147,009 and reflects what Pepperdine University reasonably expects to pay for this faculty appointment. Actual salary may vary based on the qualifications and experience of the applicant, as well as market conditions. In addition to salary, Pepperdine offers a robust suite of employee benefits. The Fletcher Jones appointment also provides the chair holder $10,000 annually to support their professional development, research/ scholarship, and travel.

A background check will be required as a condition of employment. All inquiries or questions should be sent to the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Paul Begin (paul.begin@pepperdine.edu).