Kami Buchanan is a third-year Doctoral Graduate student in the Department of Educational Psychology's Counseling Psychology program at UNL and the current Miss Nebraska USA 2024. Her passion for creativity, helping others, and a deep pursuit of knowledge have driven her impactful journey.
Through her research, Kami focuses on the experiences of historically minoritized and oppressed communities, exploring how systems affect their well-being. She firmly believes that even the smallest actions can create significant transformations, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, Kami partnered with Looking Forward Counseling to create 50 care bags for the YES House, a local non-profit that supports teens and young adults facing housing insecurity. Each pack includes hygiene products, bathroom necessities, and mental health resources to provide a safe space where young people are seen, heard, and supported.
Kami’s ultimate goal as Miss Nebraska USA is to champion her "I Choose Me" initiative. She plans to travel across Nebraska, engaging young girls and women in conversations about confidence, mental health, and physical well-being. Her vision includes organizing boot camps to help women overcome internal and external barriers, using her experiences as inspiration.
Beyond her research and advocacy, Kami is a fashion model who started her modeling journey at age 12 and continues to build her career while pursuing her studies.
Did you know? Kami has never broken a bone! In her spare time, she enjoys building botanical flower LEGO sets, connecting with friends and family, working out, and expressing her creativity through fashion and makeup. Her diverse interests make her a truly unique and intriguing individual.
Kami embodies the spirit of our graduate community here at UNL, inspiring those around her with her commitment, passion, and drive to make a positive impact.
If you know anyone impacting our community, kindly nominate them here