Kate Lafferty-Danner, PhD in Comparative Humanities '22, MA in Bioethics and Medical Humanities '18

March 31, 2026
Exterior of the Humanities Building surrounded by green trees and grass
Exterior of the Humanities Building surrounded by green trees and grass

"When I was researching graduate programs, I sought one that would embrace my interdisciplinary and diverse interests. The University of Louisville's PhD in Comparative Humanities emerged as the perfect fit, providing me with a platform to explore and integrate my passions into a truly unique academic journey. I was able to pair up my PhD with an MA in Bioethics and Medical Humanities, which is now a dual degree program offered as Health Care Ethics. This program empowered me to blend my interests in medical humanities, reproductive justice, and feminism with literature, history, and philosophy, creating a rich tapestry of knowledge and insight. Throughout my time in the program, I had the privilege of collaborating with a remarkable array of professors who not only guided my research but also fostered an environment that celebrated the interdisciplinarity of my work. Their encouragement and support have been invaluable, helping me to develop a nuanced understanding of complex issues and equipping me with the tools to address them in my professional endeavors today. The skills and perspectives I gained during my MA and PhD have significantly enriched my current work, allowing me to approach challenges with a more holistic and informed lens." 

Kate Lafferty-Danner is an Assistant Professor of Medical Humanities at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine