Student Leader Spotlight: KaLynn Irey – Leading with Heart, Hustle, and Humility
For KaLynn Irey, basketball has always been more than a game — it’s been a way of life. “I was always bigger than all the kids my age,” she laughs. “I had a blast playing any chance I could — especially beating all the boys who said they’d win.”
That competitive spark ignited a lifelong passion. What kept her hooked, she says, wasn’t just the thrill of winning but the community that came with it. “The intense competition, the physicality, the endless encouragement from my family, it all drew me in,” she explains. “But playing for the Stephens College Stars these last four years has been the most rewarding chapter yet. I’ve learned so much about sisterhood, mindset, discipline, teamwork, and culture. They are lessons I’ll carry with me for life.”
As a senior forward, KaLynn has helped make school history, including the team’s first-ever national tournament appearance — a moment she’ll never forget. “Winning that first round was surreal,” she recalls. “We were so excited we went to Wendy’s after and danced with the workers because they were connected to the speaker playing GloRilla. It was pure joy.”
Balancing the Game and the Grind
Beyond the court, KaLynn’s impact is felt across campus. She serves as Vice President of the Student Government Association, a resident assistant, student ambassador, and Stephens’ representative to the NAIA. Balancing it all, she admits, “can get pretty wobbly.” But she credits strong communication, time management, and the flexibility of those she works with. “I give all credit to the amazing individuals I work with — they make it possible.”
Her leadership philosophy centers on empathy, accountability, and authenticity. “I value listening, confidence, humility, and consistency,” she says. “Having people around me who are honest and help me grow has been vital. Feedback from my mentors, coaches, and friends has shaped me into a stronger leader.”
A Voice for Students
As SGA Vice President, KaLynn and SGA President Wylla McClurg share a deep commitment to student advocacy. “We’re passionate about being a voice for every single person on campus,” KaLynn says. “We want students to feel they have a say in the decisions that affect them.”
That focus on inclusion also drives her work as an RA and ambassador. “I want everyone to feel comfortable and have fun,” she says. “If someone isn’t having a good experience, I take pride in listening and helping however I can.”
Representing Stephens on a National Stage
In her role as the NAIA’s student representative for the American Midwest Conference, KaLynn helps amplify student-athlete voices across the country. “It’s one of the most rewarding and exciting roles I’ve ever had,” she says. “We discuss issues, propose new legislation, and advocate for autonomy and opportunity for all athletes. Connecting with student-athletes nationwide has shown me we share more similarities than differences — especially in what we value.”
Rooted in Community
For KaLynn, Stephens College is more than a campus — it’s a community that invests deeply in its students. “Our sense of community is different from any other college,” she says. “Faculty care, coaches support us, and peers encourage each other to get involved. Their belief in me has built my confidence and shown me that hard work really does pay off.”
Leaving a Legacy
As graduation approaches, KaLynn has her eyes set on another national tournament run, a 4.0 semester, and a senior capstone that reflects her dedication. After Stephens, she plans to pursue a graduate degree in sports psychology or sport and human performance — blending her passions for athletics and leadership.
But before she leaves, she hopes to inspire others to step forward. “Never cut yourself short,” she says. “Be authentic, lead your own way, and believe in yourself. If things don’t work out, it’s just a lesson — not a failure.”
Her advice to new Stephens students is simple: “What you get out of your college experience is what you put into it. Be involved, try new things, thank the people who help you, and don’t just talk about it — be about it.”
And when future Stars look back, KaLynn hopes they’ll remember her for more than her accomplishments. “I hope they remember my positivity, dedication, passion, and that I was true to my word,” she says.
With heart, hustle, and humility, KaLynn Irey has left her mark on Stephens — and she’s only just getting started.
