Makena began working with the Eugene D. Smith Leadership Institute in January of 2019. Her primary focus includes the day to day operations, and program analytics. Makena assists with program curriculum design and oversees implementation, assessments, and data reporting for The Institute, while tracking and analyzing participation and involvement across programs.
She has been with the Department of Athletics since 2014, serving as an intern for (2) years and Assistant Director of Camps and Clinics for (3) years prior to transitioning into her current role. She is a former Ohio State swimmer and graduated from The Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in Marketing. She then earned a Master’s Degree in Sport Management from The Ohio State University in 2015. She recently completed her PhD in Sport Management with a focus on Leadership Development Effectiveness.