About Leah

Justin, Leah, and Pip, on Leah and Justin's wedding day. Justin wears an olive suit, Leah wears a white lace dress, and Pip wears a black bowtie. All are smiling at the camera in a wooded, outdoor area.

Leah Spalding is an Assistant Professor of User Experience Design at Western Kentucky University, where she leads the Interface Design and Experience Analysis (IDEA) Lab. Leah’s recent work focuses on the intersection of UX design and citizen science; and researching pedagogical practices for teaching generative AI effectively and ethically. Previously, Leah worked in public service and outreach, and she draws upon this background to advocate for UX in her community. She’s interested in the social, cultural, and ethical implications of new and emerging media technologies, considering their impact on society and individuals.

Leah has more than ten years of design experience. She has experience in all areas of digital design: graphic design, interaction design, brand identity, interface (UI) design, UX strategy and research, project management, and more.

Leah is an alumna of the inaugural cohort of the University of Georgia’s Emerging Media Masters. Upon graduating, she worked at UGA Public Service and Outreach to elevate UGA’s reputation as the state’s flagship land- and sea-grant institution. Then, she returned to Grady College to spearhead the Emerging Media Masters, expand Double Dawg offerings, and teach the next generation of designers—all while crafting communications for her department, the New Media Institute and TEDxUGA.

When she’s not at her computer, you can find her hanging out with her human counterpart, Justin, and her corgi familiar, Pixel (better known as Pip).