2026 Black Student-Athlete Summit

Mikaela Adolphus, M.Ed., originally from Upland, California, is a dedicated advocate for education, inclusivity, and positive social impact. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Education, Leadership, and Policy Analysis (Higher Education) at the University of Missouri, where her research examines student-athletes’ professional development experiences and their transitions from sport into non-athletic career pathways. Mikaela also serves as the Inclusive Excellence Graduate Assistant with Mizzou Athletics and as an intern with Missouri State Senator Karla May.A former Division I student-athlete, Mikaela competed in track and field at the University of California, Davis, where she earned dual bachelor’s degrees in African American and African Studies and Sociology. She later obtained a master’s degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Positive Coaching and Athletic Leadership from the University of Missouri. Professionally, Mikaela has held roles in partner marketing and inclusive leadership at Five9, where she served as a Partner Marketing Manager and DE&I leader and was recognized on the Channel Futures DE&I 101 list.Mikaela is also the co-founder of CODE Switch, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the collegiate student-athlete experience through education, community, and empowerment. Outside of her professional and academic work, she is passionate about fitness and wellness and enjoys spending time outdoors, attending live music events, spending time with family, and with her dog, Chance.