Timothy Charles Davis

Timothy Charles Davis is an Assistant Professor of English at Cumberland University, affiliated with The Millard and JJ Oakley School of Humanities, Education and the Arts. His work bridges culinary writing, Southern cultural history, and spirituality.

• Key Affiliations:
  • Cumberland University (Current)
  • Belmont University (Former)
  • Nashville State Community College (Former)
  • Lipscomb University (Former)
  • Volunteer State Community College (Former)
  • Watkins College of Art, Design + Film (Former)
  • Flowering Lotus Meditation Center (Educational Collaboration)

Davis specializes in Southern food culture, culinary storytelling, and intersections between cooking and spiritual practice. His research extends to freelance writing, food journalism, and lay Buddhist ordination.

His notable publications include the 2015 bestseller The Hot Chicken Cookbook—now in its fifth printing—and the co-authored Community Cookbook (under contract for 2025). These works have garnered international media attention, including features in The New Yorker, National Geographic, and NPR's Morning Edition.

Davis’ career spans academic instruction, editorial roles as associate editor for Gravy (Southern Foodways Alliance), and lay ordination as Dharmacharya through Heartwood Refuge. He also contributes to Zen Peacemakers Order as a mentor/facilitator.