Central College Athletics

Makenna Hall
Keokuk, Iowa
Class of 2023

Why did you chose Central?

After attending the University of Iowa for one semester, I chose to transfer to Central because of the small, welcoming community it provided. I knew that there would be so many great opportunities for me at Central and I would be able to make lifelong friends and meaningful connections with the great people here.

Favorite professor and why?

I have had so many great professors, but one of my very favorites is Dawn Reece. She has taught some really interesting classes and genuinely cares about her students. She is also very friendly and makes class engaging with her fun personality.

You’re majoring in psychology and sociology because?

I love learning about the social world and human behavior. I want to be a school counselor, and psychology and sociology have so much to offer for my future career goals.

Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

I am involved in SOS, Campus Ministries, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes and hold work study positions in Admissions and Sports Information.

Who are your go-to musical artists?

Cody Johnson and Ian Munsick are two of my favorite country artists at the moment! If I am feeling nostalgic, Taylor Swift is good. I also enjoy KB and Phil Whickham a lot.

How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

Attending Central and being involved in athletics has truly allowed me to meet some of the best people and make the coolest memories. I was searching for community, and I found it here.

What makes you laugh no matter what mood you are in?

The episode of Friends where Ross can’t get his couch up the stairs to his apartment. Gets me every time.

Favorite animal as a kid?

My favorite animal as a kid was a penguin ever since I watched Happy Feet with my friends at school. I had a penguin-themed birthday party that year, which really bumped me up on the social ladder. 

Do different colors of skittles (or whatever fruity candy you want to say) have different flavors?

Without a doubt. The yellow-colored candies always taste the worst.

Favorite professional athlete?

Shawn Johnson! Iowa girl, born and raised. 

Favorite TV Show

My favorite show is a toss-up between The Office and Friends. The characters in both shows are hilarious and some of the scenes are just flat-out comedy gold.

What’s it like to play for Coach Wares?

Playing for Coach Wares means being constantly challenged physically and mentally. He cares about the softball program so much and does whatever he can to put our team in a position to be successful, which means holding each of us to a high standard individually. Also, you better be ready for lots of Wendy’s stops when playing for Coach Wares.

What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central softball?

It’s hard to pick a favorite part about being a member of Central softball because there is so much to love. I am super thankful to get to spend time with such great people who put their heart into everything they do. They make the adventure of striving for big goals so much fun!

What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

10 years from now, I hope to be a school counselor, coach, and a mom with a family of my own! More than anything, I hope to be making an impact on the world for the better and sharing the love I have been shown to others, especially kids and families in schools.

Favorite food from Central Market

CTO brisket quesadilla and Mongolian are both super tasty, but anyone who really knows me well knows how much I love Fresh Cookie Tuesday.

Bucket list

There is so much I want to do, but Greece and Israel are two top travel destinations for me.