2024 Students of Distinction

MacKenzie Boyd turns challenges into triumphs

Gig Harbor Now is posting profiles featuring the Students of Distinction being honored by the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation. These students will be celebrated during a banquet from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Ocean5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr.

MacKenzie Boyd

School: Peninsula High School

Category: Overcoming Adversity Achievement

MacKenzie Boyd finds inspiration in a variety of creative sources, including Cirque du Soleil and the Icelandic singer Björk.

“I grew up watching Cirque du Soleil shows, and their use of music, makeup, costumes and cultural storytelling always felt magical to me,” she says.

This creative influence kickstarted her love for language and culture. MacKenzie also admires Björk’s eccentric style and unique approach to music and fashion.

“Her unapologetically bright and unusual style taught me that it’s OK to be different, as long as you’re being true to yourself,” she explains.

MacKenzie Boyd

Overcoming chronic illness

MacKenzie has faced considerable health challenges due to chronic illnesses like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Dysautonomia. These conditions have led to numerous medical treatments and created significant obstacles in her daily life. Despite these difficulties, MacKenzie has learned to advocate for herself, gaining the confidence to stand up to doctors who dismissed her symptoms.

“I realized I needed to speak up for myself because I understand my body best,” she says. This self-advocacy has empowered her to pursue her goals despite the physical and emotional toll of chronic illness. She hopes to use her experiences to help others facing similar challenges. “Invisible illnesses like mine affect a lot of people worldwide; I can now use my knowledge and skills to help protect people from guilt and pain that they don’t deserve.”

Passion for languages and culture

After graduation, MacKenzie plans to attend The Ohio State University to study linguistics and speech-language pathology. Her passion for languages and cultures fuels her desire to study abroad and work in language interpretation.

Advice for incoming freshmen

MacKenzie’s advice for incoming freshmen is straightforward: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.” She emphasizes that teachers and staff are there to support students, so it’s crucial to speak up when struggling. “Bottling things up only makes it harder,” she warns. She also encourages freshmen to be open to new experiences and not to fear failure.

MacKenzie Boyd

Category: Overcoming Adversity Achievement

Parents: Andy and Kristen Boyd

Achievements/Activities: Fluent in Chinese and loves to travel (she’s been to France, England, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Qatar). MacKenzie has actively contributed to the Peninsula High School Theatre Department, where she overcame her illness and gained confidence to perform.

Favorite Teacher: Mr. Bullock, the theater director, is MacKenzie’s favorite teacher. MacKenzie gained confidence thanks to Mr. Bullock’s encouragement. “He helped me build the courage to perform on stage,” she explains. “Without his advice, kindness, and support, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

Best Thing About High School: There’s no doubt she will miss theater most of all. “From day one, the energy was welcoming and kind. I’ll miss sharing meals with my cast mates before shows, our pre-show ‘shake-out,’ and holding hands with friends for the final bows. Theater has been the highlight of my high school experience.”