Outstanding Masters Student

To be the 2019 Outstanding ALCE and CALS M.S. Student Award Recipient is a complete honor. I am in still in awe that I received this rewarding award. It truly means a lot to be able to contribute to the world of research and innovation. I am forever grateful for all who have supported me during my time and continuous growth at Virginia Tech.

Advisor Statement:  Hannah Scherer, Ph.D.

Kayla has accomplished a great amount in her short time at Virginia Tech, including maintaining a 3.86 GPA, serving on the ALCE Graduate Student Council, contributing to the CALS Diversity Council Lunch and Learn Series, serving as 2018-19 President and 2017-18 Vice President of the Black Graduate Student Organization, and assisting with the new undergraduate pathways course ‘Identity and Inclusion in Agriculture and Life Sciences.’  Throughout all of her efforts, Kayla has contributed her talents and expertise for the benefit of others. Her numerous accomplishments are situated in her work to address issues of diversity in the field of agriculture and mentorship for underrepresented minority students.  She is an exemplary Master’s student and has made invaluable contributions to the department and college through her coursework, service, leadership, teaching, and scholarship.