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About Cayla
Meet Cayla Kumar, a dedicated and empathetic graduate of The University of Scranton, who is passionate about advocating for those affected by pediatric cancer. With a strong desire to make a positive impact in the lives of pediatric cancer patients and their families, Cayla earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Cell & Molecular Biology, with a minor in Philosophy. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences at Quinnipiac University, as she works toward her goal of becoming a pediatric oncologist.
Cayla's journey began after being moved by a St. Jude Children's Research Hospital commercial and the passing of her great grandmother. She started The Gold Ribbon Project with the objective of increasing awareness and raising funds for pediatric cancer research. Cayla's dedication to promoting the cause of pediatric cancer advocacy is apparent through her involvement in several leadership positions on campus, including serving as a Resident Assistant, co-chairing the Coffeehouse Committee for The University of Scranton Programming Board, and assisting with orientation at the Center of Community Engagement. Additionally, she is the president of the Kindness for Chemo and Random Acts of Kindness clubs on campus and has interned with the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. While working with pediatric cancer survivors, she advocated for The Give Kids a Chance Act and The Gabriella Miller Act.
Cayla's exceptional work has been recognized with numerous accolades and awards, including the President's Lifetime Achievement Award, The Cohen Children's Medical Center Timeless Volunteer Award, and the Prudential Community Award State Finalist. She has also been recognized with the Citation of Honor from Queens Borough President, the New York State Governor's Recognition Award, and a New York State Legislative Resolution in her name. Cayla embodies the spirit of resilience and perseverance, as demonstrated by her favorite quote from Gandhi, "We may stumble and fall, but shall rise again; it should be enough if we did not run away from the battle." Her goal is to expand The Gold Ribbon Project to continue advocating for pediatric cancer research and awareness.
In addition to her advocacy work, Cayla is an accomplished dancer, specializing in traditional Indian dances such as Bharatanatyam, Khatak, and Kuchipudi, as well as Bollywood. She is deeply connected to her culture as a first-generation American and was crowned Miss New York Outstanding Teen 2018 for the Miss America's Organization.
Overall, Cayla is a remarkable individual with a heart full of compassion and dedication to making the world a better place for everyone.
The Gold Ribbon Project, a not-for-profit, section 501(c)(3)