Assuming duties in 2025; overseeing 2026–2028 volumes
Michigan State University Press is seeking applications for the next editor or co-editors for Rhetoric & Public Affairs. The newly appointed editor(s) will begin processing manuscripts in late 2025 and will oversee the volumes for 2026–2028 (vols. 29–31). The journal is published four times each year.
Rhetoric & Public Affairs is an interdisciplinary journal devoted to the history, theory, and criticism of public discourse. Arenas of rhetorical investigation might include but are by no means limited to campaigns for social, political, environmental or economic justice; modes of resistance to those campaigns; situated instances of executive leadership; legislative and judicial deliberations; comparative rhetorics; transnational diplomacy; digital circulation and mediation of public discourse; and/or constitution of political and social identities. Critical, analytical, or interpretive essays examining symbolic influences in any historical period (including the contemporary) anywhere in the world are welcome. Of special interest are manuscripts that interrogate dynamics of power and privilege, voice and voicelessness, oppression and resistance as well as axes of identity such as race, gender, sexuality, ability, citizenship, and class, as these take form in concrete rhetorical situations. Moreover, we welcome essays that explore the nexus of rhetoric, politics, and ethics–the worlds of power, persuasion, and social values as they meet in the crucible of public deliberation, debate, and protest.
Catherine L. Langford, Texas Tech University, is currently serving as editor and is completing volume 28 (2025) as the final volume of her term.
Support for the Editor
The editor(s) will receive an annual stipend and administrative and editorial support from Michigan State University Press.
In selecting an editor or co-editors, the following factors will be considered:
- Innovative vision for the journal
- Record of research in rhetoric
- Record of experience as an editor and project manager
Editors must
- Agree to observe and support Michigan State University Press’s publication policies, including its policies on peer review, publication ethics, and handling research misconduct.
- Commit to using Michigan State University Press’s online system for manuscript submission, review, and editing.
- Commit to meeting editorial deadlines and responsibilities.
- Manage the appointment of associate editors and an editorial board to assist with the management of the journal.
How to Apply
Self-nominations are preferred.
Deadline: July 14, 2025
Applications should include the following:
- A letter outlining the candidate’s editorial vision for the journal.
- If the application is not a self-nomination, the letter should include a statement from the nominee agreeing to serve if selected.
- If the application is for a co-editorship, the co-editors should offer a detailed description of the division of labor.
- A letter from the relevant administrator at the applicant’s university indicating institutional support for the nominee.
- A current CV including the names and contact information of three references who are familiar with the applicant’s record of scholarship and editorial experience.
Letters and supporting materials should be emailed to:
Natalie Eidenier
Journals Manager
Michigan State University Press
eidenie1@msu.edu
Search Committee
Applications will be reviewed by a committee comprised of R&PA board members and MSU Press. Committee member names will be announced shortly.