Mackenzie S. Porter
Mackenzie Porter is a dedicated scholar-athlete and emerging leader in collegiate athletics, holding both a Master of Applied Science in Forensic Investigations and a Bachelor of Science degree from Missouri Western State University. Throughout her academic journey, she demonstrated excellence both in the classroom and on the field, earning multiple academic honors including the 2022–23 D2 ADA Academic Achievement Award, the 2023–2024 IWLCA Academic Honor Roll, and 2021–2024 All-GLVC Academic Honors. Mackenzie’s commitment to balance, discipline, and performance has been a defining trait of her collegiate career.
As a standout collegiate lacrosse player and two-time US Lacrosse All-American Athlete, Mackenzie served as Captain of the Missouri Western Women’s Lacrosse Team and was recognized as Lacrosse Student-Athlete of the Year in both 2023 and 2024. Her leadership extended beyond athletic competition—she was a mentor to teammates and an advocate for academic and athletic excellence, embodying what it means to be a true student-athlete.
Currently, Mackenzie has stepped into her first head coaching role with William Jewell College’s Women’s Lacrosse program, where she continues to inspire young athletes to pursue success both on and off the field. In addition to her coaching career, she has also gained experience in marketing and communications as an Account Executive at News-Press NOW, further showcasing her versatility and ambition. Mackenzie’s journey reflects a deep passion for teamwork, personal growth, and empowering others to achieve their full potential.
• Missouri Western State University - M.A.Sc.
• Lacrosse Student Athlete of The Year (2023 & 2024)
• 2022-23 D2 ADA Academic Achievement Award
• 2023-2024 IWLCA Academic Honor Roll
• 2021-2024 ALL-GLVC Academic Honors
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, my parents, and my mentors who have guided and supported me throughout my journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always make sure I’m filling my own cup — taking time to care for myself so I can pour into others from a place of fullness. I’ve also learned to lead with my faith and trust that the Lord will always provide.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to look up and recognize the people who are in your corner. Lean on them for support, seek their mentorship, and allow them to guide you — you don’t have to navigate your journey alone.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is finding balance — managing the many responsibilities that come with being a head coach. However, the greatest opportunity lies in leading and inspiring young women, helping them grow not only as athletes but as individuals on the path to success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me, both in my work and personal life, are confidence, accountability, and humility. Confidence allows me to lead with assurance, accountability keeps me grounded and responsible for my actions, and humility reminds me to always keep learning and growing.