Standout Spartan: Kayla Ayala-Delgado '28

Kayla Ayala-Delgado ’28 is a proud eighth grader. She joined the Steward community as a fourth grader, and when asked what she loves most about being a Spartan, she smiled and said, “Being able to help other people! I like making a difference in other people’s lives.” 

And that’s exactly what Kayla does. In her free time, she volunteers at school and in her community. At Steward, she serves as an Admissions Ambassador, speaking with prospective students and making sure that new Spartans get settled in. 

“I know what it’s like being new,” she shared. “I like helping out new students … sometimes you can feel a little lost, and you need someone to help you out.”

Beyond campus, Kayla has participated in a variety of service opportunities. At a Richmond Symphony gala fundraiser, she served as a special events volunteer, setting up for the event. It was hard work, but “I like a good challenge,” said Kayla. “I like trying to find different ways to solve things, and I feel proud when I’m done.” 

She has also volunteered with Sacred Heart Center, a non-profit that provides resources for Latino families, by helping with mailings. 

Passionate about nature, Kayla helped plant trees and harvested fruits and vegetables at Sankofa Community Orchard, a green space dedicated to food justice. Kayla, who loves being in nature, recalled, “It was a mostly empty field, and I helped plant some baby trees. There were lots of blueberry bushes that were overgrown, so the other volunteers and I did lots of weeding!  We also planted some thyme and rosemary.” 

This dedicated volunteer encourages her fellow Spartans to help others whenever possible.

“Look at volunteer opportunities in a positive way, and give it a try,” she said, “and you just might end up liking it!”