Kayla Kosmalski

Kayla Kosmalski is returning to Wilmington University this fall for another year in her Communications program as this year’s Ruby’s Rainbow Sauer Family Scholarship Award recipient, and a two time Rockin’ Recipient. Alongside her studies, she proudly cheers with the WilmU Wildcats.

Kayla is a trailblazer many times over. 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 Miss Congeniality at Miss Teen USA. She’s continued to make her mark on screen with an appearance in the film I Win, and production is beginning soon on ABLE: The Kayla Kosmalski Story, a feature film about her life. Her advocacy runs just as deep: she helped pass local and national legislation, including Delaware’s ABLE Act, renamed Kayla’s Law in her honor, serves on the board of the 321 Foundation, and is an Ambassador for Hearts of Joy International. In 2024, she was recognized as one of Delaware’s Most Influential People, and she uses her platform of more than 400,000 TikTok followers to spread positivity, advocacy, and encouragement.

Kayla’s goals for the future are just as bold as her journey so far: becoming an actress and a motivational speaker, using her voice to inspire others. She loves meeting people, dancing, singing, and cheerleading, all passions that fuel her drive to connect and perform.

Kayla, you continue to redefine what’s possible. We are beyond proud to support you, keep reaching for the stars!