Former CMA Intern Attends Wake Forest University School of Law

Former South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs intern Kayla Butler has completed undergraduate studies and is now pursuing her law degree at Wake Forest University School of Law.

Butler served as a research intern for the Commission’s Director of Research and Planning Dr. Coddy Carter from August to December 2018. As a public health major and sociology minor, Kayla used her expertise to assist Dr. Carter in examining how race and socioeconomic factors determined one’s susceptibility to chronic disease and health emergencies.

The Summerville native is a proud alumnus of the University of South Carolina, where she graduated magna cum laude with a 3.8 grade point average in Fall 2018. Butler is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Butler, who is scheduled to complete her studies at Wake Forest in 2022, plans to specialize in either criminal, civil rights, or family law.

Dr. Coddy Carter’s Thoughts on Kayla Butler

I still recall Kayla sending an email to the administrative manager at the Commission in search of internship opportunities. Seeing a young person take that type of initiative reminded me of myself at that age. I was captivated simply by that, but I was blown away when I saw on her résumé that she was on track to graduate magna cum laude in 3 and a half years!

What most impressed me about Kayla was that her commitment to her studies and leaving her mark on the world matched the accomplishments I saw on paper. The words she spoke demonstrated that she had a genuine passion for aiding people and communities in need.

During our first meeting, I told Kayla that the people here at the Commission would do whatever we could to support her on the path to law school. I cannot wait to hear the news of her walking across that stage at Wake Forest and being hooded three years from now!

I am confident that Kayla is going to make an impact on whatever ground she touches. I wish her the best of luck.

From Executive Director Dr. Delores Dacosta

Kayla is unquestionably an outstanding student and was a tremendous asset here at the Commission. Her dedication to her research and the team was unmatched. Kayla exceled at every task she was given and I know that she will excel, not only in law school, but throughout her law career. I’m proud of what Kayla has been able to accomplish thus far and I look forward to seeing what she becomes in the future.

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