LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 16, 2026) — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jordan Maynard as a lecturer in the lecturer title series. Maynard brings an expansive background in behavioral health, higher education and community service, along with a passion for understanding the people and cultures that shape the communities social workers serve.
Originally from Mingo County, West Virginia, and a longtime resident of Pike County, Kentucky, Maynard has built his career around serving others. His professional experience spans several roles across health care, behavioral health and higher education, including serving as an interfaith chaplain at Pikeville Medical Center, a behavioral health clinician and, most recently, program coordinator of human and social services at Big Sandy Community and Technical College.
Working across these settings has strengthened Maynard’s commitment to preparing future social workers who understand the importance of compassionate, culturally responsive practice. His experiences supporting patients, students and communities have reinforced his belief that meaningful relationships and a service-oriented mindset are at the heart of effective social work.
facMaynard earned a Bachelor of Science in Comparative Religion from the University of Pikeville and completed graduate coursework in theological studies at Milligan College in Johnson City, Tennessee. He later returned to the University of Pikeville to earn his Master of Social Work. His academic interests center on people, culture and society, particularly the ways those elements influence one another and shape the human experience.
He is a Kentucky Certified Social Worker (CSW) and remains committed to advancing social work education through thoughtful teaching, interdisciplinary collaboration and student mentorship.
“Joining the CoSW is an exciting opportunity to invest in the next generation of social workers,” Maynard said. “I look forward to helping students develop not only the knowledge and skills needed for practice, but also the curiosity, empathy and cultural awareness that strengthen our profession and the communities we serve.”
“Jordan’s professional experiences reflect a genuine commitment to serving others across a variety of settings,” Jackie Duron, Ph.D., associate dean of faculty advancement, said. “His interdisciplinary background, commitment to student success and passion for understanding the human experience will enrich our students’ learning and strengthen our clinical education programs.”
Outside of work, Maynard enjoys studying ancient languages, including Classical Arabic, Masoretic Hebrew and Koine Greek. He also holds both a motorcycle license and a student pilot license. His self-described lifelong quest is finding the perfect cup of espresso.
Please join us in welcoming Jordan Maynard to the CoSW faculty!