Luther College Graduate Receives Dr. Christopher C. Joyner Memorial Award

If no one funds local news, your community is just rumors. Help Decorah News bring facts home. DECORAH — Luther College graduate Kayla Will, class of 2025, received the Dr. Christopher C. Joyner Memorial Award for her participation in the Lutheran College Washington Semester (LCWS), where she interned at the Death Penalty Information Center. The award recognizes students who excel academically, demonstrate curiosity in their studies and show a commitment to learning. It is named for the late Dr. Christopher C. Joyner, a former LCWS faculty member and professor of international law at Georgetown University. Will, of Lake Mills, Wisconsin, was nominated by her fellow LCWS students and faculty. "Being selected for the Dr. Christopher C. Joyner Memorial Award feels truly amazing," Will said. "Exploring new experiences, engaging with communities, supporting others and having meaningful conversations have always been central to how I learn and grow. And that's exactly what Lutheran College Washington Semester embodies, and what the award recognizes — dedication, curiosity, thoughtfulness and enthusiasm for learning. I am so grateful to my peers for recognizing me in these qualities. This is an honor I will always remember." During her semester in Washington, D.C., Will interned as a data researcher and archivist at the Death Penalty Information Center. Her primary role involved maintaining and updating the database of all individuals on death row in the United States. She also attended events with the DPI team, including a gathering at the German Embassy for World Day Against the Death Penalty and a lecture on wrongful convictions at Georgetown University Law Center. "I learned so much — not from textbooks or lectures, but from the daily realities of working in a real office and supporting projects that have a tangible impact," Will said. "I gained firsthand experience in meaningful, purpose-driven work and developed a deeper understanding of both the research process and the broader impact of informed policy analysis." Will recently graduated from Luther with a degree in political science. She transferred to Luther in fall 2023 and quickly immersed herself in campus life, playing center for the Norse women's basketball team and serving as president of the Luther Democrats. She said her LCWS experience strengthened her confidence, broadened her perspective and prepared her for her future career. "Participating in the program has made me feel ready, prepared and excited for my job search," she said. Will said she is passionate about "helping people stay informed, bridge differences and work together toward fair and effective solutions." She added: "I want to support a government and society where understanding and collaboration drive meaningful, positive change. I'm especially interested in issues like criminal justice reform, education, veterans' benefits, women's rights and freedoms, and civic engagement. Moving forward, I hope to pursue work that allows me to combine these passions." Stay connected and informed! Join the free newsletter for curated news, trending topics, and insider perspectives you won't find anywhere else.