Steadfast & Strong: Kyla Ranko

Many of us are partial to a specific word or phrase in The Creed of Zeta Tau Alpha—maybe it reminds us of our college days, or of ourselves, or of a special sister. When I hear, “to be steadfast, strong,” I will think of my fellow health care working sisters, especially Kyla Ranko (Iota Alpha Chapter, Robert Morris University).

Kyla has an immense passion for Zeta that shines in all she does. In addition to holding other officer positions during college, she served her chapter as President. During her term, she had the opportunity to attend Convention. “Seeing our Zeta Tau Alpha sisterhood on that national level alongside sisters who share the same passion and love for the Fraternity was something I will truly never forget,” Kyla said. “It was also incredible meeting Zetas from across the country, including alumnae from my collegiate chapter, as well as celebrating the achievements of chapters and sisters during those days. It was truly an honor to represent Iota Alpha in Orlando.”

As an alumna, Kyla has taken on the role of Program Council Advisor for Theta Chapter (Bethany College). She is thrilled to be an asset to fellow sisters as they navigate life in college and beyond. “My favorite advisor memory has been facilitating Behind Happy Faces programming for Theta,” Kyla said. “Seeing the women really take hold of the content and open up to each other as sisters to provide that safe space for each other is absolutely the most rewarding aspect. They have recognized that mental health is a journey and their fellow sisters are on the ride alongside them; they are truly never alone.”

Kyla also works as a registered nurse. In this role, she supports patients with psychiatric needs during inpatient medical stays, provides emotional and therapeutic support as well as medication and lifestyle education, and ensures patients’ needs are heard and validated. On top of advising collegiate women and working, Kyla is taking classes to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is in her third year of the four-year program and already well on the path of serving those “within and without our circle.”

Kyla’s inspiring story is a reminder that as Zetas, we have a call to serve and we can lean on each other in times of need.