The Dr. Is In: Kaela Singleton’14 Named to Forbes 30 Under 30

Kaela Singleton ’14 was recently recognized as a 2022 Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient in the sciences. Singleton, a postdoctoral research associate at Emory University School of Medicine, is currently involved in research about Menkes disease, a progressive form of childhood neurodegeneration.

Singleton, who also serves as an adjunct professor at Agnes Scott College, was thrilled to receive the honor and expressed how much it means on her journey in science.

“I really can’t begin to explain what it means to me,” said Singleton. “It feels a lot like validation and recognition for how hard I’ve worked and the sacrifices I’ve made. I’ve truly waited my whole life to be as happy and successful as I am now, and it feels so much better than I ever imagined.”

As the recent president-elect of Black in Neuro, an organization dedicated to celebrating Black excellence and achievement in neuroscience, Singleton knows that the honor means not only something to her but also her community — an inspiration that loudly echoes in Agnes Scott’s growth in STEM fields, especially among diverse populations. 

Singleton credits experiences at Agnes Scott for helping get her to this place of distinction. 

“Agnes means the world to me,” Singleton starts. “The community at Agnes, from the staff to students, made me who I am. It challenged me to be the best version of myself at a young age, and I’m forever thankful and proud of that.

“I wouldn’t be where I am or the person I am without professors like Dr. Jennifer Larimore, Dr. Megan Drinkwater and Dr. Lindsay Sampson. The confidence and skills they instilled in me as a student, mentee, and now, colleague is truly hard to put into words.”

Singleton is the second former Scottie to be named to the prestigious list in the last four years after Jordan Casteel ’11 was named an honoree in the arts in 2018.