Sport: Track & Field 
Major: Mathematics 
Bryn Mawr College Affinity Groups: SAAC, BMAA, Sisterhood 
Hometown: Canton, Massachusetts  

As Black History Month unfolds, we take the time to honor and amplify the voices of Black scholar-athletes who are making an impact both on and off the field. Kayla Camille, a standout track athlete and dedicated student leader, embodies the essence of resilience, representation, and empowerment. Her journey reflects the importance of community, self-growth, and the ongoing fight for inclusivity in athletics and beyond. 

The Importance of Black History Month 

For Camille, Black History Month is a crucial time for reflection and education. She believes it is an opportunity to celebrate Black voices and acknowledge the struggles and triumphs of those who paved the way. In her own words: 

"We get one month. Why not take the time to think about it? Just one month out of the whole year, so why not educate yourself, do something different, read new books?" 

Navigating a PWI as a Black Scholar-Athlete 

Attending a predominantly white institution (PWI) has presented unique challenges for Camille, particularly in finding a strong Black community within athletics. She describes the experience as one requiring intentional effort: 

"Being at a PWI, I had to make a conscious effort to find community. It wasn't as easy as it was in high school." 

To address this, she took on leadership roles in organizations such as the Black Multicultural Athlete Association (BMAA) to create spaces where Black athletes can connect and support one another. 

Leadership and Representation in Athletics 

Camille's commitment to inclusivity extends beyond her own experience—she is passionate about ensuring that future Black athletes feel seen and supported. Her leadership in BMAA and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has been instrumental in fostering change: 

"I didn't want my first-year experience to necessarily be everyone's experience. How can we make it easier for athletes of color to connect?" 

Track as a Mental and Personal Growth Tool 

Track & field has served as more than just a sport for Camille—it has been a vehicle for building confidence and resilience. She compares the mental toughness required on the track to the challenges she faces in academics and life: 

"Track is all mental. It's just me on that track. It's just me looking at that exam. And it's all about confidence." 

Building Community Across Schools 

Kayla has also worked to extend the sense of community beyond her own campus. Through initiatives like "Uncomfortable Conversations" with athletes from Ursinus College, she has engaged in open discussions about the experiences of BIPOC athletes, fostering connections and understanding. Reflecting on these conversations, she notes: 

"Hearing the experiences of a Black alum made me reflect on how much has changed—and how much hasn't." 

Family Influence and Inspiration 

A significant source of Camille's motivation comes from her family, particularly her grandmother, an immigrant from Haiti whose resilience and sacrifice continue to inspire her: 

"My grandmother paved the way for me. She worked so hard, and now I want to make the most of every opportunity." 

Finding Community Beyond Sports 

While athletics have been a core part of Camille's college experience, she has also found support and connection through affinity groups, such as Sisterhood. These organizations provide a space for Black students to uplift one another, reinforcing the importance of belonging: 

"I might not know every Sisterhood member personally, but when I see them on campus, there's always a smile, always a 'Hey.' That's what community feels like." 

A Legacy of Impact 

Camille's story is one of perseverance, leadership, and a deep commitment to fostering change. As she continues her journey, she remains dedicated to ensuring that Black scholar-athletes have the support and representation they deserve. Her story reminds us all of the importance of celebrating Black history, strengthening community, and embracing leadership as a tool for progress. 

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This Black History Month, we honor Kayla Camille's voice, her impact, and her dedication to making a difference. Her journey serves as a powerful testament to the strength of Black excellence in sports, academics, and beyond. 

Click the link to watch an exclusive interview with Camille.