Star Spotlight: Nyla McClinton ’27

Helping others improve their mental wellbeing is a passion for Nyla McClinton, an aspiring clinical psychologist.

For her Schmitt Scholars project, Nyla, a neuroscience major, created and facilitated The Kids are Alright, a workshop for DU students to speak candidly about external pressures in their lives and build community together. Her goal, she says, was to help students feel more comfortable about themselves and sharing their feelings.

“My psychology background really benefited me, especially with figuring out how people think and making sure they feel safe and included,” Nyla says.

She’s also worked alongside researchers to analyze the outcomes of a trauma therapy group supporting Black women and, through the Black Star Project, she mentors middle school-age children of color, helping them recognize their value in the world.

These service-based projects, as well as her academic achievements, earned Nyla the prestigious 2026 Lincoln Laureate Award from DU.

“I’m just happy to serve my community,” she says.