Maya Adams ’26 (Penn) ’29 (Drake)
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Major: 3+3 Law Program
From the South Side of Chicago to the heart of Oskaloosa, Maya Maria Adams has made her mark at William Penn University in ways that reach far beyond the classroom. A third-year student in the competitive 3+3 Law program with Drake Law School, Maya is pursuing majors in Political Science and History and will begin working toward her Juris Doctor at Drake after this academic year.
Her involvement on campus is extensive and deeply impactful. Maya serves as the Sitting President of the Campus Activities Board and Vice President of the Student Government Association, where she also holds the role of Events Coordinator. She is Vice President of both Penn Zone and the Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society, Social Media Liaison for the Black Leadership Initiative, Student Services Social Media Coordinator, Senator for the Social and Behavioral Sciences Club, and Senator for Latino Leaders of Tomorrow.
Her list of leadership roles is impressive, but what stands out most is how she balances it all while maintaining a high GPA and preparing for law school. Maya embodies what it means to be a Statesmen: driven, engaged, and committed to making a difference.
Maya’s journey at Penn did not begin with certainty. She arrived as a student-athlete on the Women’s Volleyball team, searching for connection and belonging.
“I first began my journey at Penn on the Women’s Volleyball team, and I soon learned that it was not for me. After feeling lost and wanting to transfer to a school closer to home, I chose to give Penn one more chance. At the recommendation of my best friend, I joined the Student Government Association. Upon joining SGA, I knew that I had found my calling, and I joined more clubs, working my way up the leadership ladder. Although I did not find my place through sports, I was able to find my passion through clubs and organizations.”
That decision changed everything. Through Student Government and other campus organizations, Maya discovered not only her passion but also her voice. As a woman of color in leadership, she has taken on roles that allow her to advocate, organize, and create spaces where students feel represented and heard.
Her involvement stretches across academic honor societies, cultural organizations, student government, campus programming, and communications. Each role adds a new layer to her leadership experience and deepens her connection to the Penn community.
Beyond titles and meetings, Maya’s campus engagement has equipped her with skills that will carry her into the legal profession and beyond.
“Being involved on campus has taught me important life skills such as balancing both school and work, communicating with my peers, organizational and time management skills, planning and networking skills, as well as the ability to multitask. These experiences outside of the classroom have helped prepare me for real world work experiences as an attorney.”
For prospective students considering William Penn University, Maya’s story offers a glimpse into what is possible. At Penn, students are not limited to one path. They are encouraged to explore, to lead, and to redefine their journeys when plans change.
Maya gave Penn one more chance. In return, she found her calling, built an extraordinary leadership portfolio, and positioned herself for success in law school.
Her experience reflects the heart of the William Penn community: a place where students can discover their passions, rise into leadership, and prepare for meaningful careers while making a lasting impact along the way.