Makayla is pursuing her Bachelor of Science with an Individualized major in Gender, Sexuality, and Reproduction, with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences. For her outstanding influence and dedication to eliminating bigotry, prejudice, and discrimination and to fostering tolerance and understanding among campus students, she has been awarded the Cohen Student Leader Scholarship for Enhancing Community. Makayla has also been awarded for her leadership skills with the UConn Emerging Leader Award, the UConn Leadership Legacy Experience, and the UConn CLAS Women’s Leadership Collective.

Makayla’s participation on campus is reflective of her values as a student leader. Within the Rainbow Center, Makayla is a part of the FAMILEE Mentoring Program. By providing a welcoming atmosphere, she assists students in their first and second year at UConn-Storrs with their transition on campus. In addition to being involved with the Rainbow Center, she is also a participant in other student organizations as well as being a part of the Collegiate Health Service Corps Undergraduate Student Government.

Makayla’s interests lie in human development, helping those with HIV/AIDS, artivism, health disparities, and sexual health education. She hopes to be the Director of HIV Prevention and Harm Reduction Services while leading her future nonprofit for children with incarcerated parents and bereaved children.