Kayla Kosmalski: Wilmington University (Ginny Trawick Scholarship Award)

Kayla is a two-time Rockin’ Recipient and a sophomore at Wilmington University, where she is majoring in Communications and cheering with the WilmU Wildcats. She is passionate about connecting with others, performing, and using her voice to inspire, with goals of becoming both an actress and a motivational speaker. 

Kayla is also a trailblazer in the pageant world. In 2024 she became the first woman with Down syndrome to win a state pageant title as Miss Delaware Teen USA and went on to earn the title of Miss Congeniality at Miss Teen USA. She continues to shine in the spotlight with appearances in the film I Win and production beginning soon on ABLE: The Kayla Kosmalski Story, a feature film about her life. 

Her leadership extends far beyond the stage. Kayla has been a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities her entire life, helping pass local and national laws including the ABLE Act, renamed Kayla’s Law in Delaware. She serves on the board of the 321foundation, is an Ambassador for Hearts of Joy International, and was recognized as one of Delaware’s Most Influential People in 2024. With more than 400,000 TikTok followers, she uses her platform to spread positivity, advocacy, and encouragement. 

We are so proud of Kayla’s incredible accomplishments and can’t wait to see all the ways she will continue to inspire others as she pursues her dreams!