Search for an Inaugural Faculty Director for the Business Living-Learning Community (BLLC)
What is an LLC and Why Is It Important to Faculty?
A Living-Learning Community (LLC) is a residential program that integrates academic, professional, and social experiences for students who share common academic or career interests. The newly created Business Living-Learning Community (BLLC) supports undergraduate students pursuing business-related majors by blending faculty-led academic support, career development programming, mentorship, and community involvement.
Why it’s important to faculty:
- Provides meaningful engagement with students beyond the classroom setting.
- Fosters leadership, innovation, and mentorship opportunities across business disciplines.
- Strengthens retention and academic success among business students.
- Increases faculty visibility and impact within the undergraduate business education ecosystem.
Role and Responsibilities of the BLLC Faculty Director
The Faculty Director of the Business Living-Learning Community (BLLC) serves as the lead academic and community advisor for the program. The director establishes the community’s mission and vision, promotes a strong learning culture, and leads initiatives such as tutoring, case study groups, business skill-building workshops, and peer-to-peer learning activities.
They are responsible for coordinating professional development experiences, including employer panels, company visits, alumni networking events, and guest speakers from a wide range of industries (finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, etc.). The director also plays an active role in fostering student leadership, encouraging involvement in undergraduate research, entrepreneurship competitions, and experiential learning like internships or study abroad.
The director works closely with campus and corporate partners to expand the reach and value of the BLLC. They are also expected to attend and lead events, some of which will be scheduled in the evenings or on weekends.
The Faculty Director receives logistical and administrative support from a team that includes a Program Coordinator, graduate assistant, and student mentors. Close collaboration is expected with the Residence Life staff and the Student Success Center.
The Faculty Director reports jointly to the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Studies and the Associate Vice President for the Residential Experience and serves at the pleasure of the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. The position is part-time and runs for a three-year term, with renewal possible by mutual agreement. Expected start date is late October.
Compensation includes a $2,000/month stipend for nine months, with prorated summer pay based on days worked. Teaching responsibilities will be reduced accordingly, in agreement with the faculty member’s home department.
Qualifications
Candidates should have a strong record of undergraduate teaching in business or related fields, with demonstrated experience mentoring students and supporting their academic and professional development. The ideal candidate will have practical knowledge of business education and be passionate about creating inclusive and innovative learning environments.
Minimum qualifications:
- Full-time tenured or professional-track faculty at the rank of Associate or Full Professor.
- Affiliated with the University of South Carolina’s Columbia campus at the time of appointment.
Application Process
Applicants should submit the following materials:
- A letter of interest outlining relevant experience and vision for the BLLC
- A current curriculum vitae
- Names and contact information for three professional references
Please submit all materials to Dr. Lara Lomicka Anderson at lomicka@mailbox.sc.edu.
For full consideration, applications should be submitted by September 30, 2025. The position will remain open until filled.