KYLA MARKS
voices, promoting school pride, and supporting initiatives that enhance student life and institutional visibility. She embodies the institution’s mission of uplifting communities through excellence, compassion, and transformative leadership. Passionate about dental public health, Kyla focuses her training on addressing oral health disparities in underserved communities, with a particular passion in pediatric populations. She is committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care guided by integrity, empathy, and service. During her time at Meharry, she has contributed to community-centered initiatives such as Oral Health Day, which provides free dental services to individuals across Nashville, Middle Tennessee, and surrounding states, helping reduce barriers to care. Beyond her clinical and ambassadorial roles, Kyla is an engaged campus leader and proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, previously serving as president of the Xi Phi Chapter at Washington State University. As she prepares to graduate in May 2026, Kyla Marks continues to emerge as a rising leader in dentistry, dedicated to expanding access to oral healthcare and uplifting the communities she serves.
Student Dr. Kyla Marks, a proud native of Seattle, Washington—the “Pacific Northwest”—is a distinguished dental scholar, community advocate, and student leader at Meharry Medical College, where she is completing her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree as a fourth-year dental student. The cherished daughter of Retired 1st Sgt. Don Chandler and Trinity Chandler, Kyla’s journey is grounded in faith, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Throughout her academic career, Kyla has demonstrated exceptional dedication and strategic planning,
earning more than $700,000 in scholarships over eight years. Her efforts allowed her to complete both her undergraduate and dental education completely debt-free. Her story has been recognized nationally as a powerful example of scholarship advocacy and financial literacy, inspiring students across the country to pursue higher education without financial barriers. In April 2025, Kyla was crowned Miss Meharry, a prestigious honor that reflects her leadership, character, and commitment to service. As Miss Meharry, she serves as an ambassador for the university, representing student
HBCU TIMES WINTER ISSUE 2026 | 4 5
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