Tradition Never Graduates - Kyndra Gaines ’15

Published: February 26, 2026

Kyndra Gaines ’15 has lived a life of servant leadership since graduating from NDA in 2015.

Kyndra attended the University of Toledo where she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public health, specializing in health education and promotion. She also worked in UT’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), where she first stepped into servant leadership.

One of her first initiatives there was implementing the Inclusive Wall of Honor, which recognized individuals in minority communities, including members of the BIPOC and disability communities. “I was able to honor my mentors who had shaped my mindset on what it meant to be a leader,” shares Kyndra.

Kyndra also worked for FoodCorps, a national nonprofit that strives to bring food to children in school. “I was honored to take public health and DEI – combining my two passions – to work toward eliminating homelessness and food insecurity,” she explains. “These are two social issues that don’t have to happen, especially in America.”

Most recently, Kyndra has stepped up to lead the newly formed NDA Black Alumnae Association, continuing the work that Edith (Taylor) Campbell ’75 initiated.

Kyndra’s new role came to be after conversations with her dear friend Dorian Miller ’15, who encouraged Kyndra to take on a leadership role. At NDA’s Reunion this past summer, the group of alums connected to plan for the future.

“To know that I’ll be working with Edi and other great Black alums is amazing,” she explains. Her top priority is to connect with current NDA students. “I want them to feel the excitement of what it means to be a young Black woman, and to know that if they take advantage of the opportunities available to them at NDA, college is going to be a breeze.”

“I always knew that I belonged at Notre Dame. I still feel that I can call NDA home, now and at any point. That sense of belonging stays long after graduating.”