Dean, College of Arts and Science
Steely Library 410
Personal
Dr. Bethany Bowling was appointed Interim Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at Northern Kentucky University in January 2024. She is a native of Northern Kentucky, obtaining a BA in Biology from Thomas More College and an M.S. in Biology and Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies - Biology Education from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Bowling joined NKU in 2007 as a faculty member in the Department of Biological Sciences, was promoted to Associate Professor in 2013 and Professor in 2019. Additionally, she served as associate dean from 2017-2022 and senior associate dean from 2022-2023.
Dr. Bowling currently resides in Park Hills, KY where she enjoys the trails and playgrounds of Devou Park with her husband, David, and two kids, Braxton and Mabel.
Academic
Dr. Bowling is currently the principal investigator of two National Science Foundation-funded projects including STEM Ready (NSF IUSE 1900036), focused on improving mathematics preparation for students historically excluded from STEM, and Project S3OAR (NSF S-STEM 1833804), a scholarship program for academically talented, low-income STEM students. Previous to her work in STEM education, Dr. Bowling’s genetics education research was funded by the American Society of Human Genetics – Genetics Education Research Program. Additionally, she served on the American Society of Human Genetics Information & Education Committee from 2013-15 and Undergraduate Human Genetics Education Workshop Committee from 2006-2019.
In the Department of Biological Sciences at NKU, Dr. Bowling has taught large enrollment introductory biology and genetics courses utilizing problem-based team learning to effectively engage all students in the learning process. She has also worked to expand experiential learning opportunities for students, implementing a course-based research project in the genetics laboratory course, engaging over 200 students over several years in an authentic research experience.
Dr. Bowling has been recognized for her teaching with the 2012 NKU Faculty Excellence for Performance in Teaching Award. She has also been recognized for her partnerships with other units across campus including the 2023 NKU Center for Integrative Natural Sciences and Mathematics Award, the 2021 Diversity ALLY Award from the NKU African American Student Initiatives, and the 2019 Friend of Student Affairs Award.
