Lucy Davis, originally from Ashland, Kentucky, has dedicated her career to advancing environmental and sustainability education at the College of Charleston (CofC). With dual graduate degrees—a Master of Science in Environmental and Sustainability Studies and a Master of Public Administration from CofC—Lucy brings a unique combination of scientific knowledge and practical leadership skills to her role as Program Coordinator for Graduate and Undergraduate Programs in Environmental and Sustainability Studies and Director of the Sustainable Agriculture Program.
Lucy’s journey with CofC began in 2015 when she joined the Environmental and Sustainability Studies (EVSS) program as a graduate assistant. She quickly made a lasting impact, earning a full-time position as the Program Coordinator for the EVSS program in 2018. In January 2024, she took on an expanded role, adding the undergraduate program to her portfolio. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, guiding students through academic advising, curriculum development, professional mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities.
In addition to her program coordination roles, Lucy directs the Sustainable Agriculture Program, managing urban gardens in downtown Charleston and a 5-acre garden at Stono Preserve. This program not only provides students with hands-on experience in sustainable farming but also engages the broader Charleston community through workshops, volunteer days, and partnerships with local organizations. From managing beehives to leading the innovative Project Inspire, which introduces local schools to agricultural education, Lucy ensures that students and community members alike benefit from the program’s outreach.
What sets Lucy’s leadership apart is her commitment to personalized mentorship. As she explains, “Our program is deeply rooted in hands-on learning. We empower students to pursue research projects that align with their personal interests, connect them with external partners, and help them build professional networks.” This nurturing approach creates an environment where students can thrive, not only academically but also in developing skills that make them competitive in the rapidly growing field of environmental sustainability.
Lucy is also deeply involved in sustainable food systems projects and community resilience initiatives, focusing on protecting local pollinators and biodiversity through the promotion of native plants. Her expertise in these areas is helping shape local conservation efforts while also providing students with opportunities to participate in meaningful, real-world environmental solutions.
The EVSS program offers a broad range of opportunities, from internships and study abroad programs to GIS technical training and beekeeping certifications. These experiences give students the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive job market, where sustainability expertise is highly sought after across many sectors. “Our graduates are making significant contributions in their fields,” Lucy shares, “whether it’s in resilience planning, climate change mitigation, or addressing other sustainability challenges.”
Her advice to prospective students? “Come in with an open mind and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the mentorship and development opportunities inside and outside the classroom. This program will challenge and inspire you in ways you may not expect.”
Lucy Davis continues to shape the future of environmental education at the College of Charleston, ensuring that students are not only well-versed in sustainability theory but also empowered to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world at large.
