Lifework Podcast
The Lifework Podcast is where faith, purpose, and calling come together. Hosted by Williams Baptist University President Dr. Stan Norman, this podcast explores the theology of work and why it matters for every believer. At Williams, we believe education is more than a degree — it’s preparation for a Christ-centered life of influence and service.
Through thoughtful conversations with faculty, leaders, and friends of WBU, the Lifework Podcast unpacks how God designed us to find meaning in our work and live out our calling in every sphere of life. Our goal is to inspire and equip listeners to see their lifework not just as a career, but as a way to glorify God and impact the world.
Lifework Podcast
From Rural Roots to Global Impact: Dr. Melissa Davis on Agriculture and Calling
From Rural Roots to Global Impact: Dr. Melissa Davis on Agriculture and Calling
On this episode of the Lifework Podcast, host Dr. Stan Norman talks with Dr. Melissa Davis, a new agribusiness professor at Williams Baptist University.
Growing up in the rural farming community of Eads, Tennessee, Dr. Davis originally planned to major in psychology—until a class debate on land preservation sparked a passion for environmental science. She set out to become a park ranger, but after 9/11 cut the funding for her job, she pivoted to parks and recreation work and eventually discovered a love for teaching and research. Encouraged by a mentor, she entered a direct PhD program in plant pathology at Virginia Tech, where she conducted field research on plant diseases and taught biology for three years.
Now at Williams, Dr. Davis is driven to prepare the next generation of agribusiness leaders—helping students see that agriculture isn’t just a career, but a calling with the power to nourish communities and sustain the world’s food supply.