Southern Nazarene University is home to many students who embody leadership, service, and community–and McKenna Franks, a nursing major, is a shining example. From the classroom to the rugby field, Franks balances a full schedule with passion and purpose.
She is deeply involved in campus life: playing on the women’s rugby team, serving in SALT and Senate through Community Relations, and participating as a Presidential Leadership Scholar (PLS). Beyond campus, she works at OU Medical Center, gaining hands-on experience that aligns with her nursing studies.
Finding balance has not always been easy. “It took me quite a long time to figure out how to balance it all and maintain a good social life,” Franks admits. “But I feel like prioritizing the important things and leaning into the little things that brighten my day has made all the difference. Life is hard, but there is beauty in the constant changes and the people who lift you.”
A typical day for Franks is filled with activity. Mornings start with an 8 a.m. class, followed by her PLS hours in the admissions building. After chapel–where she helps scan students out–she grabs lunch before heading back to class. Evenings are reserved for homework and spending time with friends. Twice a week, clinical rotations are added into the mix before heading to practice.
Much of her involvement, she credits to encouragement from her roommate and best friend, Lydia Mitchell, who inspired her to join SALT and Senate, and eventually walk onto the rugby team. “It truly has made an impact and shaped who I am. On such a small campus, it is hard not to want to get involved,” Franks reflects.
One of her most cherished memories at SNU also connects back to Mitchell. “My sophomore year, Lydia gave me a Bible. I still have it today, and it has encouraged me in my walk with the Lord every day. I cannot express how grateful I am for that.”
Looking back, Franks would remind her younger self that challenges are part of the journey. “It is okay to walk through hard times and have a bad day. But continue looking for the joy and beauty in your life, and allow yourself to live life to the fullest. Not every day is perfect, but every day is extraordinary because I get to live life with the people I love, doing the things I love. And it never hurts to be kind.”
McKenna Franks’ story is a reminder that involvement, faith, and resilience do not just shape a student’s experience–they build a foundation for a meaningful life.
Photo provided by: McKenna Franks