Where Science Meets Humanity

By Katie Ray ’24

For Lyndsay Leigh Madden, D.O., ’05, KYCOM ’09, medicine was more than a destination. It was a calling that revealed itself over time. Today, she serves as a board-certified otolaryngologist and associate professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, helping patients reclaim their voices and restore their quality of life.

“I’ve always had a creative side and a deep love for storytelling, history and performance. All of that now shows up in my work with patients,” said Madden. “Treating voice disorders feels deeply personal. The voice is central to everyone’s identity, communication and professional life.”

Raised in Knott County, Ky., Madden grew up in a close-knit community that instilled in her a strong work ethic, resilience and compassion. Those values have guided her every step.

“That is where I learned what it means to care for your neighbor and show up when it counts,” said Madden. “Those lessons shaped the physician I am today.”

Initially drawn to the University of Pikeville for cross country, Madden’s journey quickly expanded. While juggling academics, she dove into student government, sports medicine, university choir and softball while double-majoring in biology and psychology.

“UPIKE appealed to me because it offered the rare combination of being close to home while providing a rigorous, high-caliber education,” said Madden. “I considered careers in psychology and counseling, biology and even becoming a museum curator. UPIKE gave me the space and support to follow my curiosity.”

While attending undergrad, she spent countless hours in the Armington Building, which then also housed the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. That proximity allowed her to become deeply familiar with the school’s mission, culture and community.

“Dr. John Strosnider, KYCOM’s founding dean, was an extraordinary mentor and visionary leader. His influence continues to shape the kind of physician and leader I strive to be,” said Madden. “I keep a photo of him in my academic office today as a daily reminder of where I came from, the values he instilled in me and the legacy of opportunity that KYCOM represents.”

Madden’s initial plan was to return home as a family physician. However, a rotation with Dr. Greg Hazelett in Pikeville introduced her to otolaryngology, and everything changed.

“Otolaryngology’s unique blend of surgical precision and long-term patient relationships captivated me. The old saying ‘to cut is to cure’ resonated deeply, but what truly sealed it for me was the ability to follow patients over time, witnessing the lasting impact of our care,” said Madden. “The chance to help someone regain their voice, breathe more easily, or enjoy a meal again felt both humbling and powerful. It’s a field where science meets humanity in the most meaningful way, and I knew I had found my calling.”

Madden is not only a practicing physician but a national leader in her field. She serves as president of the American Osteopathic Colleges of Ophthalmology/ Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, the first woman otolaryngologist to hold that position. She is also a key figure in performing arts medicine, working with singers and performers, including students from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Her osteopathic training and artistic sensibility equip her to treat voice professionals holistically.

“When the body isn’t in sync, it impacts vocal performance,” said Madden. “It’s a privilege to help artists protect and preserve the very thing that brings their craft to life.”

Despite a demanding clinical and academic schedule, Madden remains committed to research, mentorship and advocacy. While she is on track for promotion to full professor, she is currently preparing her thesis for the Triological Society, one of the most prestigious academic organizations in the field of otolaryngology.

“Research isn’t separate from patient care. It’s a way to ask better questions and improve outcomes,” said Madden. “And mentoring passionate trainees reignites my own sense of purpose every day.”

She is also helping to launch a nonprofit, the Alliance for Voice, Airway and Swallowing Disorders, aimed at advancing multidisciplinary care in specialized areas.

“I realized that being a physician allows me to integrate many of my interests: the human connection and emotional insight of psychology, the investigative nature of biology, and the intellectual curiosity that drives both science and the humanities,” said Madden.

Medicine offered the perfect blend of purpose, challenge and lifelong learning. I feel incredibly fortunate to care for patients while teaching and mentoring the next generation of physicians.