Application Guide
How to Apply for DAFTG Director
at American Association of University Professors
🏢 About American Association of University Professors
The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) is a unique organization that combines advocacy for academic freedom with a fast-growing union of higher education workers. It is at the forefront of defending democracy and expanding the labor movement in higher ed, making it an exciting place for those passionate about protecting academic rights.
About This Role
As DAFTG Director, you will lead the department responsible for upholding academic freedom, tenure, and governance standards across the country. This role is impactful because you will shape national policy, manage the Center for the Defense of Academic Freedom, and develop education programs that empower faculty members.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve morning check-ins with DAFTG and CDAF staff, reviewing ongoing academic freedom cases, and collaborating with the Strategic Director to plan a workshop on shared governance. Afternoons could include drafting policy statements, meeting with national officers, and developing curriculum for a new member education module.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who American Association of University Professors Is Looking For
- Demonstrated leadership on academic freedom, job security, and shared governance issues, especially related to part-time and contingent faculty.
- Deep familiarity with AAUP policy standards and institutional policies on academic freedom, due process, and shared governance.
- Strong writing, communication, research, and analytical skills, with experience conducting member education and developing workshop curriculum.
- Advanced degree (master's or PhD) preferred, with a background in higher education or labor advocacy.
📝 Tips for Applying to American Association of University Professors
Highlight your specific experience with contingent faculty issues or shared governance campaigns in your resume and cover letter.
Mention any familiarity with AAUP's Redbook or recent policy statements to demonstrate your knowledge.
Showcase examples of curriculum development for workshops or trainings on academic freedom.
Emphasize remote management experience and ability to foster teamwork across distributed staff.
Tailor your application to reflect the AAUP's dual mission of union organizing and academic freedom defense.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your commitment to the AAUP's mission of protecting academic freedom and expanding the labor movement.", 'Specific examples of leadership in academic freedom or shared governance issues.', 'Experience developing and implementing educational programs for faculty members.', 'Your ability to manage multiple priorities and supervise a team in a remote setting.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review the AAUP's Redbook and recent policy statements on academic freedom, tenure, and governance.
- → Familiarize yourself with the AAUP's current campaigns and recent news about attacks on higher education.
- → Understand the structure of the Center for the Defense of Academic Freedom and its strategic goals.
- → Look into the AAUP's union organizing efforts and how they intersect with academic freedom work.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that does not mention the AAUP's specific mission or current challenges.
- Focusing only on academic experience without demonstrating leadership or advocacy skills.
- Failing to address the remote nature of the role and how you would manage a distributed team.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to American Association of University Professors!