Dr. Joyce Bowling began her career in education as a first grade teacher in Manchester, Kentucky. In that position, she worked with students from various socioeconomic backgrounds in the areas of reading, language arts, writing, mathematics, science, social studies and art. Dr. Bowling taught first grade for twelve years. She also taught fifth and sixth grade Corrective Reading, Language Arts, and On-Demand writing.
Upon completing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Dr. Bowling, transitioned into higher education. Joining UC in 2014, she serves as a professor in both the undergraduate and graduate programs in the School of Education. She is currently conducting research to help promote literacy in Appalachia.
During the course of Dr. Bowling’s career, she has received numerous awards for her dedication to her students, profession and to her community. These include; Ashland Teacher Achievement Award in 2011 and 2012, where she was recognized as one of the top three teachers in the state of Kentucky. Clay County Board of Education presented Dr. Bowling with both the Outstanding Educator Award in 2011, Golden Apple Award in Education in 201, and Going the Extra Mile Award in 2013. She received the Outstanding Kentuckian award in 2012, the Appalachian Leadership Award in Education in 2012 and also the KEA Outstanding Leadership award presented by the Kentucky Education Association in 2013. Dr. Bowling also received the 2014 Appalachian Leaders in Education Apple K-12 Teacher Award presented by Forward in The Fifth. Most recently, Dr. Bowling received the Educator Who Made A Difference award in 2017 presented at the University of Kentucky by the School of Education Department.
Dr. Joyce Bowling enjoys reading, writing, and working on her family’s small farm. She is also a clean eating activist, enjoys a whole food plant-based diet, and enjoys creating and cooking new and exciting dishes. She is also a direct descendent of Chief Redbird.