By TYLER ELLYSON
UNK Communications
KEARNEY – Kayle Morris is a people person.
She’s kind and compassionate, someone who truly enjoys interacting with others and making a difference in their lives.
Basically, she’s a poster child for the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s family science program.
“Kayle demonstrates all the traits of a true servant leader,” said professor Toni Hill. “She exemplifies high standards in her service and commitment to the family science program, the UNK campus and the Kearney community.”
A Gering native, Morris came to UNK because she liked the close-knit campus and small-town feel. Interpersonal relationships have always been important to her, so she appreciated the one-on-one connections students have with faculty, staff and each other.
“I really think UNK is a great choice if you’re wanting that community and family feel,” she said. “That’s especially true in the family science program. The professors here go above and beyond to support you and work with you. They genuinely care about their students and get to know you as a person.”
Originally enrolled in the pre-dental hygiene program, Morris switched to family science during her sophomore year and immediately fell in love with the major. She added an early childhood minor to gain more experience working with young kids.
“This program was the perfect fit for my interests,” she said. “I gained valuable knowledge that I can use not only for my career but also for my own family in the future.”
Morris was a standout scholar in the classroom, developing the skills to support and empower families as a professional. Hill called her an enthusiastic learner and active leader within the program.
“Kayle brings enormous engagement and energy to projects. She was selected as the 2024-25 Outstanding Family Science Student by the FAMS faculty because of both her intellect and her investment in the department,” said Hill, who serves as faculty adviser for the Council on Family Relations (CFR), a family science-focused student organization.
During her three years of involvement, Morris served as the group’s vice president and president, organizing meetings and networking events, hosting guest speakers and planning community outreach projects. The group participates in activities at Kearney Area Children’s Museum and other family service organizations within the community. They also spread joy on campus through random acts of kindness, whether they’re sending thank-you notes to faculty members or sharing inspirational messages with students during finals week.
“That’s been a really great experience,” Morris said. “The CFR organization creates a community within our major, allowing you to connect with people who are going into similar fields. It’s also a way to get involved in the Kearney community while supporting local kids and families.”
In addition to that group, Morris was part of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority for two years and she participated in a variety of intramural activities.
She completed an internship during the fall semester, working with counselor Kara Estes at Horizon and Sunrise middle schools in Kearney.
“She was a great role model,” Morris said. “Working with her inspired me to want to help kids even more. Seeing how she helped students with coping skills and resources was beneficial for me and something I will take with me to my future career.”
Morris graduates Friday with honors, then she plans to pursue a master’s degree in counseling. She wants to work with children and families, providing a safe and welcoming space to focus on their well-being.
“Mental health is a very sensitive topic, and it’s hard for some people to discuss,” she said. “As a counselor, I want people to be comfortable and recognize that it’s OK to ask for help. I don’t think it should be something that people are ashamed of.”
