By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

We are so proud to share the news that Ke’La Porter, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS, who serves as the student member of the DEI Committee, has been selected as the graduate student recipient of the inaugural Leadership Legacy award presented by the MLK Center. The Leadership Legacy Award is given to both an undergraduate and graduate student who embody the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy of thoughtful leadership and trailblazing vision. Award winners have demonstrated evidence of the following:

• Intentional community leadership and impact, both in and outside of the University
   
• The ability to advocate for Innovation, creativity, and vision in leadership
   
• and ability to positively impact individuals to act & advocate for social change.

Ke’La, who is a student in the Rehabilitation and Health Sciences PhD program, is a perfect selection for the inaugural award!

"This is probably one of the greatest honors that I have ever - and could ever - receive," Porter said. "It is work that I am passionate about and don’t always think twice about it, but for my efforts to be seen and recognized means the world. I plan to continue with this work and do my part to uphold the legacy of MLK.”

Porter, originally from North Carolina, earned her undergraduate degree at Western Carolina University in Athletic Training. After getting her undergraduate degree, she was passionate about continuing her education and felt that the University of Kentucky’s Master of Science in Athletic Training was the right fit for her.

As a student in the master’s program, Porter was required to partake in a research study. This requirement sparked an interest and passion that she didn’t realize she had. After her continued involvement and interest in research, her mentors encouraged her to pursue a PhD. Porter’s research focuses on looking at the impact that neurocognitive function has on dynamic postural stability.

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February is Black History Month

Since 1976 the United States and Canada have designated the month of February to recognize the contributions of people of the African diaspora. The College of Health Sciences will be recognizing and honoring some of our own Black alumni and students throughout the month – celebrating success while we also acknowledge both historical and current inequity and the work that each of us must do to dismantle systemic racism. We also hope members of our community will join with the MLK Center for events throughout the month.