Black History Month Spotlight: Senior Makayla Hollifield

As part of Columbia College’s ongoing effort to observe Black History Month, we are intentionally highlighting our Black leaders, faculty, staff, students, athletes, and alumni, so that our entire community is able to witness their impact on the Columbia College Family. 

Columbia College Senior and 2022-2023 Savory Award winner Makayla Hollifield is but one of our incredible Black leaders on campus. As a member of the Women’s Track and Field team, Makayla leads her teammates and peers by her example of passion and dedication. According to Makayla, “Motivated and empowered are two words that come to mind when I think about being a student-athlete at CC. Although it has its challenges, it is truly a rewarding feeling to be able to make a difference in the lives of my teammates and in my community while striving to reach my goals. I am grateful for this journey that I am on and blessed to have such wonderful teammates, family, friends, professors, and coaches, who have helped me become the best version of myself.” 

When asked what she has learned from her Columbia College experience, Makayla shared that she has learned to take chances and step outside of her comfort zone. Through the boundless opportunities offered to her through Columbia College, she has grown in her leadership skills, which she believes has led her closer to achieving her personal and professional goals. 

Finally, Makayla shared, “I am inspired and proud to be a Koala because the core values courage, confidence, commitment, and competence are exemplified by students, faculty, & staff daily. Columbia College embraces and unifies the community through the inspiring leaders it has produced, past and present. Being a Koala has shaped my life in many ways, and I aspire to keep making first-year Makayla proud.” 

As we highlight key Columbia College leaders, we are constantly humbled by the ingenuity of our Koalas and how they shine within and beyond our community. We are honored to showcase leaders like Makayla as we continue to celebrate Black History Month.