Alumni Spotlight: Kayla Andrews '17
A Conversation with Kayla Andrews '17
February 23, 2026
We are honored to spotlight Kayla Andrews '17 as part of our February Alumni Spotlight series. From founding student organizations on our campus to leading development in the progressive nonprofit tech space, Kayla’s journey is a testament to the power of turning "thought into action."
Kayla will return to campus on Friday, February 27, as a featured panelist for our Alumni Culture & Community Celebration for Black History Month. She will join Blayre Riley '20 and moderator Dr. Michael Sorrell P'29 for an insightful discussion titled "Navigating Life & Career with an HBCU Education."
Join Us for the Alumni Insights Panel
Don't miss the chance to hear more from Kayla!
- What: Alumni Culture & Community Celebration for Black History Month
- Theme: Navigating Life & Career with an HBCU Education
- When: Friday, February 27 | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.
- Where: North Dining Room, The Episcopal School of Dallas
Purpose: From Pondering to Pioneering
For Kayla, purpose is the ability to create experiences that challenge how we treat one another and the systems that reinforce those behaviors. While she honed her analytical skills in ESD’s AP Literature and Government classrooms, she has transitioned from a "deep thinker" to a "doer."
I'm driven to push beyond thinking and pondering and instead turn thought into action to be the change.
The"Do It Yourself" Spirit at ESD
During her six years at ESD, Kayla learned a vital lesson: sometimes, you have to be the one to make it happen. Noticing a lack of affinity groups on campus at the time, Kayla took the initiative to establish the Black Student Union (BSU).
By gathering signatures, finding a sponsor, and proving the demand, she brought the BSU to life. "There was no obstacle in the way of a BSU existing, except no one had asked for one or made it happen," she reflects. "Sometimes, you have to do it yourself!"
A Global Perspective and Professional Excellence
After ESD, Kayla attended Howard University, where she deepened her commitment to Africana Studies and leadership. Her undergraduate years were marked by international advocacy and a commitment to sisterhood.
- Global Leadership: Traveled to South Africa and Ghana as President of the Young AfricanA Leadership Initiative (YAALI).
- Legacy: A proud initiate of the Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Professionally, Kayla has already made a significant mark in the communications and nonprofit sectors. Before joining The Movement Cooperative (TMC) as the Development and Partnerships Lead, she served as the Creative Lead for the award-winning Education Equity Action Plan (EEAP) Coalition NYC Campaign, which earned "Best Integrated Campaign" at the 2022 U.S. Agency Awards.
Career and Education at a Glance
- Education: Howard University; B.A. in Africana Studies
- Current Role: Development and Partnerships Lead, The Movement Cooperative (TMC)
- Achievement: Creative Lead on award-winning Education Equity Action Plan (NYC)
Advice for Current Students
Kayla’s advice to students is rooted in authenticity and the "heart" of the work:
Your passion, your empathy, your love of humanity is what will carry you through your career. Never doubt yourself because others don't understand it. And you should always, always bring your whole self to your work—who you are matters.
Every day, our alumni are fulfilling ESD’s mission by making an incredible impact on the world. From innovative entrepreneurs to community leaders to creative trailblazers, their stories are a testament to the power of our community and the values we share. This series is dedicated to showcasing the diverse paths our alumni have taken and the meaningful work they are doing. We believe their journeys will inspire you and highlight the many ways our alumni are living lives of purpose.
Are you an alum with a story to share? We want to hear from you!
Each month, we feature a new Alumni Spotlight, and we're looking for alumni stories to highlight your success, purpose, and impact. Whether you've launched a new business, led a community initiative, achieved a personal goal, or made a difference in your field, we want to celebrate your accomplishments. Ready to be featured? Submit your updates and achievements through the form below for a chance to be our next alumni spotlight.
