Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Dr. Anne Kenworthy, who assumed the role of Spalding University's 11th president last fall, is focusing on strengthening the university's academic programs and reviving its Catholic campus ministry. "I see us continuing to lean into our roots of caring professions," said Kenworthy in a recent interview. She highlighted the university's strong health professional programs, tracing back to Mother Catherine Spalding, the foundress of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.

Spalding University, located on 24 acres in downtown Louisville, has a history dating back to 1814 when Mother Catherine established Nazareth Academy in Bardstown, Kentucky. The liberal arts college currently enrolls about 1,600 students.

Kenworthy took over as president in November 2024 after being named in September. She succeeded Tori Murden McClure, who retired after two decades at the school, including 14 years as president.

As a Methodist leading a Catholic institution, Kenworthy has been considering how to support the school's Catholic identity and work within that tradition. "I follow the lead of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and their Catholic tradition," she stated.

Recently appointed Benedictine Sister Katie Cummings will serve as Spalding's new campus minister. Kenworthy expressed her support for Sister Cummings' efforts to build campus ministry offerings such as Mass celebrations and retreats.

Kenworthy is also learning about Louisville's local Catholic community and schools while navigating her new role by understanding faculty strengths and engaging with community members and business owners. "What I see and hear is a passion, care and concern for students and student learning," she noted.

Her leadership approach emphasizes collaboration: “Let’s work together to have a healthy and safe community; let’s become aware of each others’ strengths and resources.”

Kenworthy relies on faith in her leadership style: “I pray every day to God to bless Spalding...and puts people in my life who will take us in the direction we should go.”

Highlighting Spalding’s focus on healthcare education, Kenworthy mentioned that Spalding’s School of Professional Psychology will offer a master’s degree in clinical psychology starting this fall. This expansion aims to enhance mental health services through its Center for Behavioral Health.

In addition to healthcare programs, she noted strong business and criminal justice programs at Spalding. She hopes to expand real-world opportunities for criminal justice students by partnering with the community.

Before joining Spalding University, Kenworthy held various roles at Findlay University in Ohio and Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tennessee. Her educational background includes degrees from the University of Memphis and Christian Brothers University.