Vodden joins UofL from East Tennessee State University, where she served as the inaugural vice president for marketing and communications. In her role at ETSU, Vodden led an integrated team of more than 30 marketing and communications professionals and guided the department through a comprehensive brand modernization, digital ecosystem overhaul, renewed focus on internal communications and integrated marketing strategy that contributed to record new student enrollment and recognition as a Great College to Work For®.����

“We are thrilled to welcome Jess as a Cardinal and look forward to her leadership as she guides a talented team of professionals who work tirelessly to tell UofL’s story and shape and elevate the university’s brand,” Bradley said. “Jess brings with her an established track record in helping universities with integrated marketing and narrative strategy, digital transformation and crisis communications. Her experience with higher education policy groups and mission-driven organizations also proves invaluable.”��

An enterprise marketing and communications executive for more than 20 years, Vodden previously served as the chief marketing officer at Savage Grant, a social impact investment firm focused on economic and workforce development, as well as in a senior role with the West Virginia Higher ����ֱ�� Policy Commission. She also founded VLS, a behavioral design and communications advisory practice that worked with universities, government agencies and nonprofits.����

Vodden holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations, with minors in Spanish and graphic design from Marshall University and a Master of Public Administration in nonprofit management from the University of Colorado Denver.����

At UofL, Vodden will serve as a member of the president’s leadership team and work with campus leaders to shape the narrative of UofL’s next chapter, focusing on strategic priorities including academic success, enrollment growth, innovation, connecting with community partners and growing the university’s national reputation.����

“As one of only 13 universities in the nation recognized by the Carnegie Foundation as a top-tier institution for research, community engagement and student success, the University of Louisville exemplifies everything a public university should be,” Vodden said. “I am honored and humbled to join President Bradley and the university community as they build on recent historic achievements, including record enrollment, major gains in student retention and groundbreaking investments in research and innovation that will help build a brighter future in Kentucky and across the world. ��

Vodden replaces John Karman, who has served in the interim vice president role since late 2024. Karman, who guided the Office of Communications and Marketing through several major initiatives during his tenure, will return to his role as university spokesperson and executive director of communications.����

Vodden will begin at UofL on Aug. 17.��

Presented annually by UofL’s Office of Community Engagement, this award recognizes faculty, staff, students and community partners who demonstrate exemplary commitment to volunteerism, outreach, partnerships, curricular engagement or community-based research.�� ��

CESA also was recognized for its innovative model and measurable impact on both student development and community wellbeing. Through collaborations with organizations across Louisville, CESA strengthens UofL’s mission as a Carnegie Research 1 university dedicated to addressing community needs. It also directly supports the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan by deepening student��through community engagement that addresses community needs.��

Dean Beth Boehm recently accepted the award on behalf of the graduate students enrolled in the 2025-2026 academy. She emphasized the significance of the recognition.

“This award recognizes the Graduate School’s commitment to ensuring our students develop not only as researchers and professionals, but also as engaged scholars in any field of study. The partnerships at the heart of this program have proven communities and universities are stronger when they work together, and we are proud to play a role in helping students develop their potential as engaged scholars. We are particularly proud of this year’s students, whose projects with our partners were collectively the strongest in the now decade-long program’s history,” Boehm said.��

CESA, founded by the Graduate School in 2016, introduces students to the principles of community‑engaged scholarship through a yearlong, two-part experience in small teams to codesign research projects with community partners. Students work collaboratively with these partners to address real organizational needs while gaining hands-on experience in community‑centered research.

“This academy was built on the belief that hands-on learning is powerful. The shared impact for both our students and our partners through that exchange is what makes this work so meaningful,” said Michelle Rodems, assistant dean of student success in the Graduate School.

The academy not only equips students with the skills to conduct ethical, collaborative research, it also strengthens UofL’s long-term relationships with community partners across the region. One of these partners, Claude Stephens of Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, has worked closely with graduate students participating in CESA.��

“Bernheim’s two years of experience with the Community Engaged Research Academy has allowed us to improve our play experiences at Playcosystem while also helping us understand the value of diverse perspectives regarding research. We look forward to future opportunities to engage with the Community Engaged Scholarship Academy,” Stephens said.

As CESA continues to expand its impact, the academy remains committed to strengthening UofL’s role as a partner in community wellbeing.

By Vanessa Karem

The program was developed with the input of supply chain leaders from a diverse range of regional and national corporations, ensuring graduates are equipped with skills modern employers value.

“Supply chain management is a core function of every global, national and regional business, and the demand for skilled professionals in this field has never been greater,” said Amy Henley, dean of the UofL College of Business. “We are thrilled to offer students a rigorous, industry-informed degree that prepares them for a rewarding and lucrative career while strengthening the talent pipeline for employers across our region and beyond.”

The 27-credit-hour program of study is built around five capabilities identified by employers as critical:

• A broad business perspective
• Core supply chain and operations knowledge
• The ability to turn data into actionable information
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Relevant practical experience.

Students will have the opportunity to earn credit through internships and co-ops with regional industry partners and may choose to pursue international study abroad experiences. The curriculum also incorporates applications of artificial intelligence and data analytics, reflecting the modern demands of the profession.

“At UPS, we know today’s supply chains run on data, technology and collaboration across complex networks. Programs like UofL’s global supply chain management degree help develop the talent that powers Louisville’s world-class logistics ecosystem,” said Peg O’Neil, president, UPS Network Design & Optimization.

Supply chain management is among the fastest-growing career fields in Kentucky, with a projected 10-year job growth rate of 34%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Louisville’s status as a major national logistics hub – with access to an international airport, major waterways, rail infrastructure and interstate highways – gives students exceptional proximity to industry leaders, internship opportunities and real-world learning experiences.

For more information about the BSBA in global supply chain management at the UofL College of Business, visit .

The move positions Louisville among a growing group of programs proactively reshaping their operating models in response to the rapid evolution of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and revenue-sharing across college sports.

Cardinal Ventures will serve as a centralized platform to maximize revenue generation, expand strategic partnerships, and amplify the Louisville Athletics brand — directly supporting the success and visibility of its programs and student-athletes.

“This is about positioning Louisville to compete and win in the modern era of college athletics,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Josh Heird. “Cardinal Ventures gives us the operational flexibility to grow revenue, maximize brand value, and create meaningful opportunities for our student-athletes.”

University leadership emphasized the long-term impact of the new structure.

“Today’s action reflects our commitment to best position Louisville Athletics for sustained success,” said President Gerry Bradley. “This modernized approach strengthens our ability to generate resources and compete at the highest level nationally.”

“This is a decisive step forward,” said Larry Benz, chair of the Board of Trustees. “It creates the right structure to grow, adapt and lead — while maintaining strong institutional oversight and alignment.”

Cardinal Ventures will operate with dedicated board governance that includes university leadership.

Establishment will begin immediately, with a phased implementation rollout expected in the coming months.

“Recently, we had the opportunity to meet with John, who has contributed greatly to the university and the Louisville community over many years,” said Bradley. “In that meeting, we learned a lot of facts and details regarding the circumstances that regrettably led to UofL parting ways with John in 2018.

“While we recognize that the decisions made years ago were based on the information available at the time, we have gained a greater perspective of the facts that have emerged since then. Considering these developments, UofL now acknowledges the university would have approached the situation differently based on our current understanding and believe the best path forward is to unite in our shared commitment to supporting UofL.”

In addition to serving as a trustee, Schnatter was a major benefactor who spearheaded numerous initiatives for UofL, including the creation of its football stadium and the formation of the John H. Schnatter Center for Free Enterprise.

Recent discussions with Schnatter have revealed a desire to re-engage with the university, an appreciation of UofL’s recently adopted five-year strategic plan and an alignment with Bradley’s stated vision for UofL.

“We recognize and greatly appreciate everything John has done for our university and the Greater Louisville community over the years, and we look forward to future collaborations with him that will benefit our students, our faculty and all of Card Nation,” Bradley said. “We are excited about the opportunity to move forward with everyone who embraces the mission and vision of the University of Louisville.”

Using the American College of Lifestyle Medicine’s culinary medicine curriculum as its foundation, the classes blend nutrition science, nutrition counseling, hands-on culinary skills and exposure to world flavors into a practical, case-based course for future physicians. Fourth-year medical students learn to translate dietary guidelines into realistic meal ideas, practice counseling language they can use in a clinical setting and prepare dishes that support common medical nutrition needs, such as cardiometabolic health and diabetes.

The course is led by Kristen Neises, director of lifestyle medicine at the UofL Trager Institute, along with Chef Nikkia Rhodes and is held at the institute’s Culinary Medicine Kitchen, which .

UofL News checked in with Charmi Shah, a fourth-year medical student who participated in the fall semester course, about her experience.

UofL News: What interested you about the culinary medicine course at the Trager Institute’s Culinary Medicine Kitchen?

Charmi Shah: I have always loved cooking and consider myself a true foodie. I grew up helping my mom in the kitchen whenever I could and have always enjoyed trying restaurants and cuisines from all over the world. So, when this culinary medicine course was offered, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. The idea of earning school credit while cooking delicious meals (and getting to eat them afterward) sounded like the perfect combination of passion and learning.

As a vegetarian, I also was especially excited knowing the meals would be plant-based. I am constantly looking for ways to increase protein intake and make healthier substitutions in my own meals, so I knew this class would offer lessons I could apply both personally and professionally. It felt like the perfect opportunity to blend something I genuinely enjoy with my medical education.

UofL News: Could you describe your experience working hands-on in the kitchen and what you learned?

Shah: Each week focused on a different cuisine or meal type, from Asian-inspired dishes to breakfast foods, bowls and even desserts. Before class, we watched instructional videos on cooking techniques and read articles or publications on relevant nutrition topics so we could come prepared for meaningful discussion at the start of the class.

During class, we split into pairs and divided up the recipes, preparing the dishes ourselves. The hands-on experience made the learning incredibly engaging. After cooking, we cleaned the kitchen together as a group and then sat down to enjoy the meal we had created. One of my favorite parts was role-playing patient scenarios, where we practiced applying what we had learned in realistic clinical conversations. It reinforced how to translate nutrition science into practical, culturally sensitive advice. And of course, taking home leftovers was an added bonus.

Beyond learning new cooking skills, I gained a deeper understanding of macronutrient balance, plant-based protein sources, portion control, and how small ingredient substitutions can significantly improve nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

UofL News: Why do you think it is important for future health care providers to learn nutrition science?

Shah: Nutrition science is foundational to preventive medicine. Many of the leading causes of death in the U.S., including diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are strongly associated with lifestyle factors. While medications are essential in many cases, addressing diet and daily habits is often just as critical.

Exercise is important, but as many physicians emphasize, meaningful weight loss and long-term health begin with the exercise of eating first. Future health care providers must be equipped not only to diagnose and prescribe but also to provide more holistic care by guiding patients toward sustainable lifestyle improvements. Without adequate training in nutrition, physicians may feel unprepared to provide specific, actionable advice.

UofL News: How do you hope to apply these lessons in your approach to health care?

Shah: As someone planning to go into family medicine, I have a strong interest in lifestyle medicine. This course reinforced my belief that physicians should look beyond simply prescribing medications and instead consider how to empower patients to modify their daily habits.

It is one thing to tell a Hispanic patient with diabetes to “avoid sugar,” but it is much more impactful to provide culturally tailored, realistic alternatives. For example, suggesting corn tortillas instead of white flour tortillas, encouraging more beans and less processed meat, discussing portion sizes of rice or chips that may be dietary staples or offering fruit-based dessert swaps instead of traditional fried sweets like churros. These kinds of practical, culturally sensitive recommendations are far more meaningful than generic advice.

Being part of the pilot culinary medicine course felt incredibly special, and I truly believe every medical student would benefit from this experience. I hope to continue expanding my knowledge in culinary and lifestyle medicine and incorporate these lessons into my future primary care practice, helping patients see that healthy living can be both achievable and enjoyable.

Q&A by Samantha Adams

Held on the day the McConnell Center was founded in 1991, the program began with a reception, giving attendees a chance to reconnect and celebrate the center’s past 35 years.

During the event, the center unveiled, “America’s Autobiography: Key Documents that Tell Our Story.” This initiative pairs a new book of key documents with a companion podcast and video series, featuring commentary from scholars and experts.

McConnell Center Director Gary Gregg’s remarks focused on the hundreds of teachers and thousands of students the center has been able to serve over the decades.

“Tonight we celebrate the McConnell Center’s work in civic education — in nurturing, teaching and inspiring generations of young citizens and their teachers,” Gregg said. “It all began with the very foundations of the center in the political science department and those early faculty…who taught our first generation of McConnell Scholars to be good citizens and leaders.”

During the program, Justin Mitchell, a social studies teacher at Franklin-Simpson Middle School and former participant in the center’s Teachers Scholars Program, was presented the Henry Clay Cup for Exemplary Service in Civic ����ֱ��, recognizing his contributions to civic learning in Kentucky. He is only the third recipient in the history of the award.

The celebration concluded with a keynote address by the Honorable Chris Gibson, former U.S. Congressman and retired U.S. Army Colonel, who reflected on the importance of civic responsibility and leadership.��

“America’s Autobiography: Key Documents that Tell Our Story” will be released in May and can be purchased at . All proceeds from the book will benefit the��McConnell��Center’s Civic ����ֱ�� Fund.

and .

Article by Natalie Tracy

This was celebrated in a big way during the 20th anniversary of the��. The weeklong conference held in February 2026 brought together faculty and staff to share ideas, explore new teaching strategies and learn from one another. Hosted by the��, attendees participated in more than 40 peer-led professional development sessions offered in multiple formats, including in-person workshops, virtual sessions and on-demand videos.

During a reception and award ceremony, President Gerry Bradley reflected on the transformative power of education and the importance of the university’s teaching community.

“If we’re going to continue to make the impact on our students –��on how they discover, how they can contribute and how they will engage with this ever‑changing world beyond our campus, the skills learned here really important,” he said. “Teaching matters, learning��matters. All of you deserve our greatest thanks and my thanks.”��

Provost Katie Cardarelli emphasized that human connection is at the heart of learning and the university’s mission. ��

“Retention and graduation do not only improve through policy. They improve because educators are committed to creating learning experiences that are rigorous,��supportive��and deeply human – something unique in this ever-evolving, AI��technology‑driven culture. This ceremony recognizes that commitment and the sustained effort that faculty invest in students often quietly and consistently, semester after semester,” she said.��

During the reception,��Senior Vice Provost��Gail DePuy announced the����This award��honors educators who have��demonstrated��a commitment to students with one or more innovative teaching practices.

The honorees include:��

• Devin Burke, School of Music, for his work reimagining music history through the use of multimedia timelines that encourage both chronological and geographical understanding.��
• Sarah��Fauque, College of Arts & Sciences, for her work to make quantitative, ecological models more engaging for students��through the use of��active, multimodal workshop series.��
• Karen Turner, School of Nursing, for developing Student Centered Interactive Learning Stations (SCILS) for graduate students building advanced clinical decision-making skills.��

In addition,��the ceremony recognized the 2025 Faculty Favorites and educators who��engaged in the Delphi Center’s professional development��cohorts. These opportunities include��Teaching Onboarding, FIT��Program��and Ascend Champions.����

Educators can keep the momentum going by joining upcoming����events or scheduling a consultation to further support student success.��

See the����from the 2026��.

By��Vanessa Karem,��

UofL’s online psychology program is rated No. 7 in the nation according to the latest results. Two other programs made the top 50. UofL also received several honors for Best Online Programs for U.S. veterans.��

UofL’s fully ��have consistently appeared in the U.S. News and World Report rankings for more than a decade, earning recognition as some of the best-ranked education opportunities for online students.��

In 2026, the following degrees received Best Online Program honors:����

• Undergraduate Psychology – No. 7
• Undergraduate Business – No. 24
• Graduate ����ֱ�� (Best Online Programs for Veterans) – No. 43
• MBA (Best Online Programs for Veterans) – No. 54
• Graduate Business – No. 82
• Bachelor’s Degree (Best Online Programs for Veterans) – No. 83
• MBA – No. 93
• Bachelor’s Degree – No. 141 ��
• Graduate ����ֱ�� – No. 145��

Kelvin Thompson, UofL’s vice provost for online strategy and teaching innovation, highlighted the importance of quality online education in advancing lives and careers while offering the flexibility to balance life’s responsibilities.��

“Providing accessible, high-quality online higher education is crucial for American social mobility,” Thompson said. “At UofL, our students come from all��walks of life��and in all manner of circumstances, including first generation, post-traditional and under-resourced students, and recognition from organizations like U.S. News & World Report reaffirms our commitment to excellence in everything we do.”��

UofL recently introduced several new online programs, including its first fully online PhD program, the online��.��

UofL’s online programs are designed for both traditional and non-traditional students, including adult learners, working professionals,��military��and degree-completer��students, as well as anyone looking to earn a college credential through flexible, high-quality online education.��

For more information about UofL’s online programs, visit��.

Cardarelli joined UofL as dean of the School of Public Health and Information Sciences in April 2024. In March 2025, she was appointed interim university provost to provide leadership for academic affairs and set the university’s curricula through collaboration with faculty, staff and students.��

“Since Dr. Cardarelli arrived on UofL’s campus, she has, time and time again, proven her talents as an innovative, forward-thinking and strategic leader in higher education,” Bradley said. “For this search, we took every measure to garner feedback on our finalists from our entire university community. With so many outstanding candidates, we had much to consider, but we are confident that we found the best person for the job in Dr. Cardarelli.”��

Cardarelli’s priorities will continue to focus on student success and further develop a strategic undergraduate success plan to dramatically improve retention. As interim provost, Cardarelli has played a key role in several initiatives such as the development of the university’s 2026-30 Strategic Plan, establishment of the Navigating Teaching Challenges program to support educators as they navigate legislative and policy changes and the development of the Student Success Task Force, which uses informed data and real-time problem-solving to improve student success.��

Before coming to UofL, Cardarelli spent 10 years at the University of Kentucky, where she served in several positions, including senior associate provost for administration and academic affairs. She also served as assistant provost and senior assistant provost for faculty affairs, associate dean for academic student and faculty affairs, and department chair at UK. Her research focuses on community-engaged approaches to reducing chronic diseases in rural and urban communities. She has served as principal investigator on more than $14 million in grants funded by the National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Department of Agriculture and other sponsors.��

A professor of epidemiology and population health, Cardarelli received her Master of Public Health degree at University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth. She went on to earn a doctorate in epidemiology at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and completed the Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine fellowship at Drexel University.����

“To help further enhance UofL’s standing as a nationally recognized institute of higher education – one that is marked by student success, breakthroughs in research and strong community engagement – is the opportunity of a lifetime for me,” Cardarelli said. “I want to thank President Bradley, the Board of Trustees, the search committee and all those who supported my candidacy for this opportunity, and I very much look forward to working with our faculty, staff and students on shaping what will no doubt be a bright future for the University of Louisville.”����

“The value Dr. Cardarelli brings to this position cannot be overstated,” Bradley said. “We look forward to seeing her vision for UofL come to life in the short and long term.”��