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It is my great honor to serve as Spalding’s eleventh president, leading a community that is deeply committed to student learning, service to others and compassionate leadership.

Rooted in our Catholic identity, Spalding fosters a spirit of belonging within our diverse and inclusive community of learners. Guided by the legacy of our founder, Mother Catherine Spalding, we prepare our students to meet the most pressing needs of the times as skilled professionals and empathetic leaders.

Every member of the Spalding family plays a role in this transformative work, and together, we are expanding our reach and impact across the Louisville community and beyond.

I invite you to discover what makes Spalding such a special place to learn, grow and thrive. I hope you will join us on the journey, and I look forward to meeting many of you along the way.

In partnership,

Dr. Anne Kenworthy
President
Spalding University

Dr. Kenworthy with two board members

The eleventh president of Spalding University, Dr. Anne Kenworthy is a visionary leader recognized for advancing student access and success through faith-based education. She is dedicated to fostering the academic achievements and spiritual growth of Spalding’s diverse and inclusive community of learners, in the tradition of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, to meet the most pressing needs of our time. A trailblazer in higher education executive leadership, Dr. Kenworthy has pioneered strategic initiatives that spur academic innovation, institutional expansion and the cultivation of Catholic values.

Prior to joining Spalding, Dr. Kenworthy served as the Vice President of Enrollment Services, Marketing Communications, and Strategic Initiatives at the University of Findlay (UF) in Findlay, Ohio, where she successfully increased enrollment revenue, expanded international student recruitment and served as a key member of the transition team for the acquisition of Bluffton University. Before joining UF, she held several leadership roles at Christian Brothers University (CBU) in Memphis, Tennessee, including Associate Vice President for Donor Relations, Academic Dean for the adult undergraduate program and Vice President for Enrollment, where she set enrollment records. Additionally, Dr. Kenworthy served as Vice President of Advancement and Planning at Crichton College and contributed to K-12 mathematics teacher development at the University of Memphis.

Dr. Kenworthy’s extensive experience in enrollment management, fundraising and community collaboration is complemented by her exceptional strategic planning skills. Her leadership has consistently prioritized partnerships and programs to increase outreach, access, enrollment and retention for underrepresented populations. Her work in higher education has secured over $20 million in donations and grants for scholarships and programming support.

An active community champion, Dr. Kenworthy served as an executive mentor to the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Hancock County and as a board member for the Findlay YMCA. She is also a sought-after speaker on topics related to strategic enrollment, college access, student success, women’s leadership and victims’ rights.

Dr. Kenworthy holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education from the University of Memphis, a Master of Business Administration from Christian Brothers University and a Fundraising Management Certificate from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Outside of work, she enjoys tennis, fly fishing and spending time with her daughter, Brooke, a graduate student.

Spalding President Anne Kenworthy in meeting

The First 100 Days: Strengthening Our Commitment to Community

President Kenworthy’s first 100 days at Spalding have marked a time of renewed outreach as the University reaffirmed its values and dedication to the surrounding community. From forming new partnerships to expanding support for students, this period has served as a springboard for achieving Spalding’s mission to meet the needs of the times.

With a clear focus on community engagement, President Kenworthy has prioritized the University’s connection to downtown Louisville—listening, learning and laying the groundwork for a more connected, vibrant future.

In Washington, D.C.

President Kenworthy joined fellow leaders of Kentucky’s independent colleges and universities in Washington, D.C., meeting with Senators McConnell and Paul, Representative Comer (pictured), and staff from several congressional offices to advocate for the future of higher education.

Featured in The Record

President Kenworthy was featured on the front page of The Record, where she shared her vision for Spalding’s future. The article, written by Spalding alumna Ruby Thomas, highlights her commitment to student success and community impact.

GLI Business at Breakfast

At Greater Louisville Inc.’s Business at Breakfast, President Kenworthy joined fellow college presidents to champion the enduring value of the liberal arts in today’s workforce. She emphasized how Spalding graduates bring the ability to think critically and adapt.

Meeting with Governor Beshear

Accopanied by Board Chair Kellie Sheryak and Trustee Thomas Williams, President Kenworthy met with Governor Andy Beshear to discuss Kentucky’s workforce needs. The conversation reaffirmed Spalding’s role in preparing students for in-demand careers.

Engaging with Elected Officials

In her first 100 days, President Kenworthy connected with numerous state and local leaders, including Representative Pamela Stevenson. These conversations explored new ways Spalding can support regional growth and opportunity through education and community engagement.

Partnering with Family Scholar House

Spalding is deepening its partnership with Family Scholar House to include student outreach, hands-on learning and basic needs assessment.

Collaborating with Catholic Charities

As part of a growing collaboration, Spalding will host a summer program for youth served by Catholic Charities’ migration and refugee services. Faculty and staff are also engaging with refugee communities to share insights into higher education in the U.S.

Partnership with IU Southeast

Spalding launched a new partnership with Indiana University Southeast, offering priority admission into select graduate programs. The agreement strengthens academic pathways in high-demand fields like psychology, physical and occupational therapy, and athletic training.

Launching New Programs

Spalding University launched three new degree programs to meet the growing demand for professionals in critical fields: a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.

Meeting with Mayor Greenberg

President Kenworthy met with Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg to discuss Spalding’s commitment to revitalizing downtown. Through community-centered partnerships and innovative programming, Spalding is proud to contribute to the city’s growth and prosperity.

Reimagining Our Campus Environment

In partnership with Louisville-based Luckett & Farley, we’re enhancing our physical spaces and streamlining operations—efforts that will enrich the student experience and help energize downtown Louisville.

Contact Information

For more information or to connect with Dr. Kenworthy, email president@spalding.edu or call (502) 588-7164.