Lovoria Williams

Lovoria Williams, Ph.D., is a Professor in the College of Nursing at the University of Kentucky and serves as Associate Director at the Markey Cancer Center within the Cancer Research Priority Initiative. She holds the Sally Humphrey Research Professorship in Cancer Health Equity and is affiliated with the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) and multiple research priority areas including Cancer Prevention and Control and Diabetes & Obesity.

• Doctor of Philosophy, Augusta University, 2011
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Augusta University, 1994

Dr. Williams is a leading scholar in cancer health equity, focusing on community-based participatory research to reduce disparities in cancer screening, prevention, and outcomes among African American and underserved populations. Her work integrates public health, nursing, and translational science to develop and evaluate lifestyle and behavioral interventions in faith-based and community settings. She has made significant contributions to understanding financial toxicity in oncology, neighborhood deprivation effects on breast cancer, and innovations in tobacco cessation training.

Her recent publications highlight a strong trend in mixed-methods, community-engaged research addressing structural and social determinants of health. Articles explore cervical cancer screening disparities, financial toxicity in bone marrow transplant care, and national strategies to diversify cancer research centers. These works span oncology, nursing, public health, and health policy, reflecting a transdisciplinary approach.

• Fellow, American Academy of Nursing (2020)
• Nurse Researcher of the Year (2019)
• Excellence in Published Writing Award (2013)
• Excellence in Community Service: Fit Body and Soul (2013)
• Excellence in Research Award (2012)

Dr. Williams has secured significant grant funding from agencies including the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities and the American Cancer Society. She leads the CED CORE of the UK ASCEND initiative, supports diversity in cancer research, and contributes to medical-legal partnership sustainability projects. She is actively involved in mentoring, professional networks such as the American Nurses Association, and national efforts to strengthen community-engaged research infrastructure.

She leads and participates in multi-institutional research teams focused on health equity, cancer prevention, and translational science, including the UK ASCEND program and the Fit Body and Soul diabetes prevention initiative.