Kortni Alston Lemon

Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon serves as Associate Professor of Journalism and Communications and Chair of the Department of Communication, Art, and Design at Gardner-Webb University. A former news director and television reporter turned happiness scholar, she is a TEDx speaker and Transformational Trainer focused on supporting the news industry through workplace well-being initiatives.

Her research interests include:

• Mental Health Journalism and historical development
• Workplace Well-being for journalists
• Applications of positive psychology in news organizations
• Compassionate leadership in media
• Transformation of newsroom culture

Dr. Lemon's current work centers on Rosalynn Carter's legacy in mental health journalism, exploring how Carter's empathetic leadership reshaped behavioral health coverage through the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Her multimedia project airs on her podcast 'The Compassionate Newsroom,' examining historical perspectives and contemporary interviews on this transformation.

Her notable recognitions include:

• 2025 Leibner Cooper Grant for Creative Productions on the History of Media
• Mental Health First Aid certification
• Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) Gatekeeper Training

Dr. Lemon serves on the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Advisory Board and co-chairs the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) task force dedicated to community wellness. She frequently presents to prestigious organizations including the American Press Institute, Radio Television Digital News Association, and National Association of Science Writers. As a sought-after speaker, she guides journalists and news leaders on applying positive psychology to enhance workplace well-being through initiatives like her 'Workplace Well-being Warriors' program.

She has organized academic-industry panels at major conferences including the Broadcast Education Association convention, facilitating discussions on incorporating industry professionals into academic settings through initiatives like Professional Takeover Day with representatives from WBTV and WSOC-TV in Charlotte.