Professor Mary Davis Selected as UK Law’s University Research Professor for 2016-17
May 17, 2016
The University of Kentucky Office of the Vice President for Research, with approval by the Board of Trustees, selected Mary Davis, Stites & Harbison Professor of Law at the University of Kentucky College of Law, as the college’s University Research Professor for the 2016-17 year.
A College of Law Committee, comprised of Professors Bob Schwemm, Louise Graham and Jim Donovan, chose Professor Davis as the College of Law nominee. She submitted a thorough application for consideration and Richard Ausness, Associate Dean for Faculty Research, then prepared a nomination letter for the University's selection committee.
“The recognition of my scholarship and its contribution to the evolution of the law is an honor that I will carry with me for the rest of my career,” said Professor Davis.
The UK Board of Trustees established the University Research Professorships in 1976 to recognize outstanding research achievements. The University Research Professors Program has been revised to meet the overall objective of UK's 2015-2020 Strategic Plan. The program now distinguishes excellence across the full spectrum of research, scholarship, and creative endeavors within each college.
The professorship is a recognition of Professor Davis’ body of work of over 25 years of research at the College of Law. She will continue to work on her products liability scholarship and is studying the liability regime for pharmaceutical related personal injuries and exploring changes to the current regime.
Professor Davis, along with 16 other scholars, were recognized for their accomplishments at a reception hosted by President Eli Capilouto last week, with their families, deans and associate deans for research on hand to celebrate with them.
“Professor Davis has made an immense contribution to the College of Law over her long career and is greatly admired and respected by her students and fellow faculty members,” said Associate Dean Ausness. “I am pleased that the University has recognized her many talents and accomplishments by choosing her to be a University Research Professor this year and I am very fortunate to have her as a valued friend and colleague.”
Congratulations Professor Davis!