Dr. Holly Kihm serves as Professor of Human Development and Family Science and Coordinator of the Child Life Graduate Program. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Science from The Ohio State University, a Master of Science degree in Family and Consumer Science with a concentration in Child Life from the University of Akron, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Ecology from Louisiana State University
She has led multiple program initiatives, including her tenure as Program Coordinator for both Family and Consumer Sciences and Child Life, and is recognized for her contributions to advancing child life education. Dr. Kihm has authored numerous publications and delivered presentations at regional, national, and international conferences, and secured external funding to support program development. She is the recipient of several institutional awards for teaching and leadership, and her grant-supported projects underscore her commitment to scholarship, innovation, and advancing the field of child life and human development and family science through evidence-based practice.
Her expertise centers on child life practice, family systems, and developmental support for children and families in healthcare and community settings. At Southeastern, Dr. Kihm teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in child life, and human development and family science, with a focus on preparing students for applied professional practice. She also developed and coordinates the Medical and Therapeutic Play Lab, a hands-on learning environment designed to bridge theory with clinical application for child life students.
