Academics and Advocacy

Mikayla Meachem ’24, an earnest advocate for social justice and a dedicated scholar, is graduating with a double Bachelor of Arts in Peace and Justice Studies and Women's and Gender Studies. Mikayla's deep commitment to community advocacy and academic excellence during her time at Pace have led to her being honored with the prestigious Trustee Award, an accolade that highlights her as a standout leader in the 2024 graduating class.

Mikayla’s commitment to activism is deeply intertwined with her own lived experience. “My passion for advocacy stems from being a person of color and living in a community of color, thus witnessing the impacts that social injustices and systemic inequalities have on BIPOC communities,” she explains. “Issues such as the attack on reproductive rights and care, the alarming Black maternal health crisis, and the injustices BIPOC communities face are extremely important to me.”

I am proud of being able to foster change in my community, as well as seeing the departments that I am a part of thrive.

Her academic journey at Pace has heavily focused on examining these topics through research. Director of Peace and Justice Studies Emily Welty, PhD, advised Mikayla on her senior capstone thesis regarding Black feminist understandings of doula activism as social justice work. Welty quickly recognized Mikayla’s passion for her work, saying, “Mikayla’s appetite for research was infused with a delight in the process of writing and deepening her own work. Every week, she brought detailed questions about both the specifics of her own project and the process of research.”

Mikayla presented her research at three different conferences—the National Peace and Justice Studies Association Conference, the Notre Dame Student Peace Conference, and the Dyson Society of Fellows 2024 Annual Meeting. Beyond showcasing her own work, Mikayla went the extra mile to support her peers. According to Welty, “Mikayla found ways to participate not only in her own conference sessions, but to build the confidence of other undergraduate students.”

I have not seen another student demonstrate such passion for the process of research and immediately upon completing it, ask how she might broaden the work beyond Pace.

This spirit of mentorship extended throughout her time at Pace. Mikayla frequently helped younger students enhance their resumes and LinkedIn profiles, assisted in networking, and facilitated meetings that explored careers in Peace and Justice Studies—all while maintaining a 3.98 GPA and making the Dean’s List every semester.

Welty highlights how Mikayla's drive sets her apart, particularly in how she extends her commitment beyond academic requirements. “I have not seen another student demonstrate such passion for the process of research and immediately upon completing it, ask how she might broaden the work beyond Pace,” says Welty.

This intrinsic motivation and forward-thinking approach seamlessly transition into the next chapter of her career. Fittingly, Mikayla will continue her work after graduation in a full-time position at SisterLove Inc., a sexual and reproductive justice organization where she previously interned, ensuring her advocacy efforts continue.

Ask questions and pursue topics that you are deeply passionate about! It is so important to seek out mentors and share your ideas and interests with them.

According to Mikayla, her drive stems from the support she’s received from her family and professors, and from a sincere desire to learn more and make an impact. “I am proud of being able to foster change in my community, as well as seeing the departments that I am a part of thrive,” she says.

Reflecting on her experiences, Mikayla shares a simple yet profound message for current students: “Ask questions and pursue topics that you are deeply passionate about! It is so important to seek out mentors and share your ideas and interests with them.”