Position Summary(Basic Job Function)
This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term: Temps can work two (2) nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between and at the end of the second term terminate for three (3) months or switch to an on-call. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.
Unit Position Summary
The AAAS (African American and African Studies) Marketing Specialist is a part-time position within the College of Arts & Letters. The role is responsible for supporting the department’s marketing and communication efforts with a focus on amplifying Black aesthetics, scholarship, and community engagement in alignment with the mission and values of AAAS. The position has a dual report to the Senior Director of Marketing & Communications for the College of Arts & Letters and the Chair of AAAS. The specialist works collaboratively to establish project priorities, implement communication strategies, and ensure that all materials and messaging reflect AAAS’s values and practices. All work must adhere to the editorial, accessibility, licensing, and brand standards of the College of Arts & Letters and Michigan State University.
Desired Qualifications
Position Details • Part-time, approximately 20 hours per week, 12 months per year • Flexible working days with unit approval • 3-year appointment supported by funding from the College of Arts & Letters and Provost’s Office Responsibilities Content Creation & Storytelling • Compose, edit, and produce digital and print collateral such as course flyers, brochures, e-newsletters, recruitment materials, and swag/merchandise. • Pitch and develop creative storytelling concepts that center AAAS values and highlight faculty, student, and community voices. • Collaborate with AAAS faculty and students to co-develop marketing materials and course-related projects. Digital Media & Social Campaigns • Manage AAAS website updates and collaborate with MarCom for digital storytelling initiatives. • Develop and execute innovative social media campaigns to promote department programs, events, research, and student experiences. • Track and report on social media performance, aligning goals with departmental priorities. AAAS Arts & Humanities Campaigns • Advance AAAS’s “uncuratorial presencing” design concept and praxis by reimagining the department as a museum/gallery space in North Kedzie. • Build stronger ties with campus museums and local artists through shared values and collaborative programming. Media Relations & Production • Amplify faculty expertise by pitching ideas to media outlets with local, national, and international reach. Last Updated 10/9/2025 College of Arts & Letters • Assist with AAAS podcasts and docuseries production by leveraging the department’s recording studio. • Document events for archival and publicity purposes. Community Partnerships • Foster collaborations between AAAS, the College of Communications Arts & Sciences (ComArtsSci), local businesses, artists, and organizations. • Support initiatives that highlight AAAS’s entrepreneurial, speculative, and impact-driven projects through Black aesthetics and stories. Brand Standards & Collaboration • Ensure all materials meet CAL and MSU brand, editorial, accessibility, and licensing standards. • Collaborate with CAL Marketing & Communications for consultation and support as appropriate based on project needs. Qualifications Required • Strong writing skills across a variety of formats (print, digital, news, feature stories). • Experience in communications, marketing, social media, or digital storytelling. • Familiarity with document design, web development, and content management systems. • Proficiency with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, blogs). • Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work in a collaborative environment. • Dependability, accountability, and adaptability to new systems and projects. Desired • Proficiency with graphic and web design tools (Canva, WordPress, Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro). • Experience with video/audio production for digital platforms. • Background or interest in African American and African Studies, arts and humanities, or related fields. • Ability to engage diverse audiences and foster inclusive communication practices. Supervision & Evaluation • Supervision: The Senior Director of Marketing & Communications oversees HR and alignment with CAL/University strategies. The AAAS Chair provides strategic direction and content expertise. • Evaluation: Annual performance reviews will be conducted collaboratively by the Senior Director and AAAS Chair, informed by feedback from AAAS faculty, staff, and students.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Work Hours
ON-CALL
