WKU News

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The Mahurin Honors College (MHC) at Western Kentucky University (WKU) is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Lindy Grief Davidson as its new director. A Paducah native, Dr. Davidson brings a wealth of experience in honors education, curriculum development and international programs, and she's thrilled to return to her home state of Kentucky.

Dr. Davidson comes to WKU from the Judy Genshaft Honors College at the University of South Florida (USF) where she served as an associate dean of academic affairs and a professor of instruction. During her nine years at USF, she played a key role in the college's growth in size and reputation, developing innovative courses, international collaborations and community partnerships.

"I'm honored to be selected as the new director of the Mahurin Honors College," said Dr. Davidson. "An honors college is the most exciting place at a university because it's where all disciplines come together, allowing new ideas to form. It's a great place for anyone who wants to explore, collaborate and take on the big issues facing the world."

Her academic background includes a bachelor's degree from Belmont University, a Master of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from the University of South Florida. Her fields of study include communication, theology and healthcare. Dr. Davidson's teaching focuses on medical humanities, with courses on topics like end-of-life ethics, health narratives, and disability and culture.

A strong advocate for experiential learning, Dr. Davidson has led ten study abroad programs to Latin America and Europe. She developed a long-standing program in collaboration with the Kerolle Initiative for Community Health in the Dominican Republic, where over 250 students have participated in an immersive health and culture experience. Her research includes interviewing, ethnography and narrative inquiry, and she has published in various journals in the fields of communication, palliative care and medicine.

Dr. Davidson's personal connection to Kentucky runs deep. She was a Kentucky Governor's Scholar and participated in Governor's Cup competitions before graduating from Heath High School in Paducah.

"The public education I received in Kentucky positioned me to take advantage of the many opportunities I've had," she shared. "I am now looking forward to investing in the very place that launched me into higher education."

In her leadership, Dr. Davidson plans to prioritize clear communication to help the MHC community and its allies understand their purpose and goals. "I hope to lead in a way that brings clarity to everyone's contributions, ultimately helping them grow as a scholar and a human," she said.

Dr. Davidson is excited to join the Mahurin Honors College team and looks forward to collaborating with the WKU campus and the greater Bowling Green community.

Contact:

Dr. Nina Marijanovic, Assistant Director of Enrollment & Brand Management

Mahurin Honors College, Western Kentucky University

nina.marijanovic@wku.edu | 270-745-2765