Kingfisher Institute

Fostering Integrated Learning and Deeper Understanding 

The Kingfisher Institute for the Liberal Arts and Professions was established with a bold vision for the future of higher education, particularly Jesuit and Catholic higher education. We believe that liberal arts and professional education complement and reinforce one another, enabling integrated learning and insight. By connecting intellectual inquiry with compassion and practical engagement, the Institute forms graduates who unite head, heart and hands as they respond thoughtfully to the complex challenges facing our global society.

The Initiatives That Guide Our Work

The Kingfisher Institute takes up thematic initiatives as interests and needs emerge across the University. Recent efforts have focused on anti-racism, humane health and sustainable development.

Kingfisher Institute Events

Our events are known for offering fresh perspectives from the humanities and unique opportunities to engage with challenging ideas. Many of these events are offered in a hybrid format, allowing for opportunities for in-person or virtual participation. 

There are currently no scheduled events. Please check back regularly for new listings.

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The Kingfisher Award: Recognizing a Commitment to the Humanities

In 2019, Creighton University President Rev. Daniel S. Hendrickson, SJ, PhD, inaugurated the annual Kingfisher Award in partnership with the Kingfisher Institute. The award recognizes faculty and staff who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to the values, principles and practices of the humanities.

Recipients

2022: Patrick Murray, PhD, professor of philosophy and the John C. Kenefick Faculty Chair in the Humanities

2021: Nicole Piemonte, PhD, School of Medicine – Phoenix Campus

2020: Omofolasade (Sade) Kosoko-Lasaki, MD, Director, Health Sciences Multicultural and Community Affairs

2019: John O’Keefe, PhD, Theology Professor and Documentary Filmmaker

Faculty and Staff Development Opportunities

The Institute offers opportunities for faculty and staff from across the disciplines to connect through a shared mission of transforming and integrating paradigms and pedagogies from both the liberal arts and the professions. 

We foster these connections in various ways, including: 

  • Reading and discussion groups
  • Lectures, seminars and other events
  • Teaching and research fellowships
  • Professional development 

If you’re a current faculty or staff member, you can learn more about the current opportunities on my.creighton.edu (login required).