Director, Jordan Institute for Spiritual Tech bei Virginia Union University

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Director of the Jordan Institute for Spiritual Technology and Digital Theology will lead the academic and operational vision for an innovative institute dedicated to the intersection of faith and technology. This role is central to shaping scholarly, educational, and public-facing initiatives that explore how artificial intelligence, machine learning, emerging digital technologies, and ethical frameworks inform and transform spiritual and theological inquiry.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate fellowship and scholarship programs (e.g., Jordan Family Fellowship and Jordan Family Scholarship).
• Lead or mentor faculty, graduate, and undergraduate student researchers in the emerging disciplines of spiritual technology and digital theology.
• Foster interdisciplinary collaborations among theological scholars, technologists, ethical researchers, and faith practitioners.
• Secure external funding—including grants, donations, and scholarships—and manage the Institute’s budget.
• Design and organize academic events such as seminars, conferences, fellowships, and public lectures.
• Publish scholarly research and support publications in peer-reviewed journals, digital platforms, and public media.
• Build partnerships with universities, faith communities, technology companies, and organizations aligned with the Institute’s mission.
• Serve as the principal ambassador and spokesperson for the Institute in both academic and public forums.
• Collaborate with university leadership to align Institute activities with broader institutional priorities and resources.

Education

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Theology, Digital Theology, Religious Studies, Ethics, Philosophy of Technology, or a closely related field.
• Established record of scholarship at the intersection of spirituality and technology—ideally with publications addressing AI ethics, digital public theology, or related themes.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected].

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.