Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) has recognized two outstanding graduates from the Paul V. Hamilton School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS) as part of its 40 Under Forty program, which celebrates young alumni who demonstrate strong leadership, career success and meaningful contributions to their communities.
The LMU 40 Under Forty program recognizes alumni under the age of 40 who are making an impact in their professions and communities. Honorees are selected based on professional achievement, leadership ability, service and the positive influence they bring to their organizations and industries. The recognition also reflects each recipient’s continued connection to LMU and their reputation as leaders in their field.
The program highlights the real-world impact of an LMU education while strengthening alumni engagement and connection across the University community. By sharing their success, LMU aims to inspire current students and encourage young alumni to stay involved and invested in the University’s future.
“LMU’s 40 Under Forty program is a powerful reminder of what our alumni go on to do after they leave our campus,” said Dr. Frank Woodward, Vice President for University Advancement. “These individuals are building meaningful careers, leading with integrity, and making a real difference in the lives of others. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is the connection they continue to have with LMU and the role they play in inspiring the next generation of students.”
Honorees from LMU-AHSS represent a range of industries and leadership roles, demonstrating the breadth and strength of LMU’s academic programs. Their work reflects a commitment to excellence, service and continued growth after graduation.
The following LMU-AHSS alumni have been named to LMU’s 40 Under Forty class of 2026. Their accomplishments highlight the lasting impact of an LMU education, as each continues to lead, innovate and give back in ways that strengthen their professions, communities and the University they call home. Their continued success and connection to LMU reflect a strong and engaged alumni community that supports future generations of students.
Joshua Burns, B.S., Criminal Justice ‘09, M.Ed., Educational Leadership ‘14
Joshua Burns, a graduate of the LMU-Paul V. Hamilton School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences and the LMU-Carter and Moyers School of Education, serves as vice president and financial consultant at Fidelity Investments, where he brings more than 12 years of experience guiding clients through diverse investment strategies, strengthening client relationships, and driving asset growth. He is recognized for his expertise in relationship management, high-volume client engagement, and team leadership. Burns remains actively connected to his community and his alma mater as a donor and regular attendee of events such as Homecoming, with a special interest in supporting the Dan Burns Golf Tournament. He is also committed to philanthropy, supporting local organizations including the Barbara Stone Foundation, Meyer Center, Junior Achievement of the Upstate, and the YMCA of Greenville.
Kayla Swiney, B.A., Art ‘13, J.D. ’17
Kayla Swiney, a graduate of the LMU-Paul V. Hamilton School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences and the LMU-Duncan School of Law, serves as director of bar preparation and assistant professor of law at the LMU Duncan School of Law, where she leads bar preparation initiatives and supports students and graduates through the bar exam and admissions process. An attorney with experience in private practice and as an appellate law clerk for judges on the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, she joined LMU Law as a full-time faculty member in 2023. Swiney provides faculty training on bar preparation and academic success, including preparing students for the NextGen Uniform Bar Exam, and has contributed to a 21 percent increase in the school’s first-time bar passage rate over two years. Appointed director of bar success in October 2025, she now leads the Bar Studies Program and presents at academic conferences on topics such as helping students secure accommodations for the bar exam.
LMU is proud to recognize these alumni whose achievements continue to strengthen their communities and elevate the University’s legacy. Their ongoing connection to LMU reflects a shared commitment to opportunity, service and student success. The University looks forward to celebrating their continued impact and engaging them in shaping the future of LMU.
To learn more about the LMU 40 Under Forty program and view the full list of honorees, visit https://www.lmunet.edu/giving/40-under-forty-honorees
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.
