Meet Your 2026-2027 Ambassadors

Meet McKenna! She is a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Cell and Molecular Biology in the College of Engineering & Science. She holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Astrobiology and Astronomy & Astrophysics from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Originally from Arkadelphia, Arkansas, McKenna chose Florida Tech because it was the only university in the United States to offer an undergraduate Astrobiology program, along with extensive opportunities for undergraduate research and leadership. McKenna knew Florida Tech was the kind of university where innovation was celebrated.

As a returning President’s Ambassador, she hopes to represent the university well and share just how special this campus is to all guests.

After graduation, McKenna plans to pursue a Ph.D. and eventually work at NASA to help advance human spaceflight. Her ultimate dream is to become an astronaut.

Her favorite thing about Florida Tech: “Color Wars!!! I was on the Orientation Team each year of my undergrad and absolutely loved it. Won 3 out of my 4 years!”

Her involvement at Florida Tech: Gamma Phi Beta (Financial Advisor, Recruitment Advisor), Analog Research Program (Vice President), Graduate Student Research Assistant in Space Biology Lab, Phi Kappa Phi (Student Vice President)

Her involvement off campus: American Society of Gravitational and Space Research Student Board (Education and Outreach Coordinator), 2024-2025 ASF Astronaut Scholar