What's Happening?
Texas A&M University's Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications (ALEC) is inviting applications for up to two full-time, 9-month Assistant or Associate Professor faculty positions. These roles focus on Youth Engagement and/or
Development, with an anticipated start date of August 1, 2027. The successful candidates will contribute to the growth of ALEC's academic programs, including the Applied Youth Development (AYD) Master’s degree, Agricultural Leadership (ALED) degree, Agricultural Education (AGED), and the PhD in Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications. Assistant Professor positions are tenure-track, while Associate Professor roles may be tenure-track or tenured upon hire, depending on qualifications. The positions entail a Division of Effort of 50% research, 40% teaching, and 10% service, with an expectation to secure federal, state, industrial, and/or foundation funding for research programs. Applicants should have a Ph.D. or equivalent in relevant fields and demonstrate research productivity and teaching success.
Why It's Important?
These faculty appointments at Texas A&M University are significant for the future of youth development and agricultural leadership in the U.S. By focusing on youth engagement in rural settings, non-profit youth organizations like 4-H Extension and the National FFA Organization, and junior livestock associations, the university is investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders and community members. The emphasis on interdisciplinary research, community-engaged outreach, and the application of research to intervention and prevention programs highlights a commitment to addressing critical issues facing youth in agriculture, including public health concerns and barriers. This initiative will help shape governmental and organizational policies related to youth, advance community and civic engagement, and ensure the continued relevance and growth of agricultural education and leadership programs across the nation. The development of robust research programs will also contribute to evidence-based practices in youth development.
What's Next?
The application process for these Assistant or Associate Professor positions is currently open, with review of applications commencing 45 days after the position opens and continuing until filled. The anticipated start date for the successful candidates is August 1, 2027. Once appointed, the new faculty members will be expected to develop and sustain vigorous research programs, secure external funding, and contribute to the academic and outreach missions of the ALEC department. Their work will involve teaching undergraduate and graduate students, mentoring, and engaging in community-based participatory research. The long-term impact will include the continued growth and evolution of academic programs in agricultural leadership and youth development, potentially leading to new insights and strategies for supporting youth in agricultural and rural contexts across the United States.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate academic appointments, these positions at Texas A&M University underscore a broader societal recognition of the importance of youth engagement and development, particularly within the agricultural sector. The focus on the Land Grant Mission, established by the Morrill Act of 1862, highlights a historical commitment to practical education and community service. These roles are not just about academic research but also about fostering a pipeline of informed and engaged citizens who can address complex challenges in agriculture and rural communities. The emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches and community-engaged outreach suggests a move towards more holistic and integrated solutions for youth development, acknowledging the social, cultural, and structural factors that shape developmental outcomes. This initiative could serve as a model for other institutions seeking to strengthen their contributions to youth leadership and agricultural sustainability.
