From the classroom to the clinic, Jessica Kline, assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, has always been drawn to roles that connect people and create opportunities for growth. Her career path began with Teach for America, where she taught middle school science in Houston, Texas. Those two years revealed the deep connection between education and health – showing her how challenges at home and in the community could directly impact a student’s ability to learn. Inspired by this experience, she pursued medical school at the University of Louisville School of Medicine (ULSOM), where she found her calling in academic medicine. 

Throughout medical school and residency, Kline consistently sought out leadership and teaching opportunities. She knew the team-based structure of academic medicine was right for her, and she joined ULSOM faculty as soon as she finished training. Since then, she has built a reputation as both a dedicated educator and an engaged leader. 

This year, Kline begins her newest leadership role, the vice chair of the ULSOM’s Faculty Forum. After three years representing the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, she was nominated to serve as the vice chair for 2025-2026, a responsibility she describes as both an honor and an opportunity to serve.  

“One of the best parts of serving on the Faculty Forum is hearing the perspectives of colleagues whose day-to-day work is very different from mine, but equally critical to the mission of the School of Medicine,” shared Kline. “I find it incredibly reassuring to know that all major changes that come from the School of Medicine administration have been made in consideration of all viewpoints, and I am proud to lead that charge.” 

With nearly50 members, the Faculty Forum is one of the School of Medicine’s main venues for shared governance. Each department is represented, with additional members from larger departments, along with medical students, graduate students and residents. Forum representatives serve three-year terms and are only able to serve two consecutive terms, ensuring that a wide range of voices and experiences guide decision-making across the school.  

Kline’s commitment to inclusive leadership stretches back to her time as a medical student, where she was actively involved in student government, curriculum development and the school’s LCME accreditation process. Those early experiences, she said, shaped her appreciation for how ULSOM values community input at every level.  

“During my four years of medical school, I was impressed by how receptive the School of Medicine administration was to student input,” Kline reflected. “As a faculty member, I continue to feel supported by my department, graduate medical education and School of Medicine leadership. It is easy to work hard for an institution that pours just as much back into its academic community.” 

Her leadership and service have not gone unnoticed. “Dr. Kline’s service to the School of Medicine is truly admirable, and we are proud to have her as the 2025-2026 vice chair for the Faculty Forum,” said Michelle Stevenson, vice dean for Faculty Affairs and Advancement. “From her time as a medical student to her current role as a faculty leader, she has consistently given back to our community. Her leadership is an inspiration to all of us, and we are stronger because of her.” 

As September marks Women in Medicine Month, Dr. Kline’s story is a powerful example of the many ways women physicians shape the future of academic medicine through teaching, service and leadership that uplifts their colleagues and communities alike. Her commitment reminds us that leadership in medicine is rooted in service. We thank her, and all our faculty, for dedicating their time and talents to strengthening our school and the communities we serve.