GSA Biographies
2026-2027 GSA Executive Board
Brooke Schmoyer (they/them), President
Doctorate of Clinical Psychology
Hi! I am entering my 2nd year in Xavier’s Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program. I previously worked in Native law and policy in D.C., before deciding to obtain my PsyD here at Xavier. I graduated with my B.A. in both Political Science and Psychology from Stanford University in 2023. This year, I will be training and providing clinical services at Xavier’s Health United Building and Psychological Services Center!
I really hope that this year all students truly feel represented by the GSA and I look forward to the year ahead!
Brennan Patterson, Vice President
Master of Health Services Administration
My name is Brennan Patterson and I am a second year PsyD student. I have a passion in forensics and hope to one day do court mandated/criminal assessments. Outside of school, I am a psychometrist at a private forensic practice and a project coordinator for Population Health. I am excited to begin working with GSA and creating a fun, inclusive environment for the students.
Sophia Bevin, Treasurer
Master of Health Services Administration
Hello! My name is Sophia Bevin, and I am a second-year Master of Health Services Administration student at Xavier University. I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky, and earned my undergraduate degree in Accounting and Management from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. I am passionate about the healthcare industry, and my long-term goal is to make healthcare more accessible and affordable. I hope to pursue leadership roles in revenue cycle, healthcare finance, or budgeting, where I can help organizations improve both financial performance and patient access to care. I am excited to serve as the 2026–2027 Treasurer for GSA. Outside of school, I enjoy staying active and am passionate about health and fitness. Outside of school, you can usually find me exploring local coffee shops, browsing thrift stores, or driving through beautiful neighborhoods while listening to music. I always enjoy meeting new people, so please feel free to reach out and connect with me!
Kennedi Heard, Social Chair
Master of Health Services Administration
My name is Kennedi Heard, and I am a second-year student in Xavier University's Master of Health Services Administration program. I earned my bachelor's degree in Health Sciences from Tuskegee University, where I also minored in Business Administration and Global Humanities. I am passionate about healthcare leadership and hope to build a career in hospital operations and strategic initiatives that improve both patient and employee experiences.
As the Social Events Chair, I am excited to create opportunities for graduate students to connect beyond the classroom. Graduate school can be challenging, and I believe building meaningful relationships and taking time to enjoy our community are essential to a successful experience. I look forward to planning engaging events that foster connection, collaboration, and lasting memories throughout the year. I can't wait to meet you at our upcoming GSA events!
MaKayla Merk, Solidarity & Kinship Chair
Master of Business Analytics
I am a second-year student in Xavier’s Master of Business Analytics program. Native to Cincinnati, I attended Xavier for my undergraduate studies, graduating in fall 2021 with a double major in Communications and Philosophy, Politics, and the Public.
Following my graduation, I fell in love with the world of consumer-packaged goods and retail relationships. I have worked for a CPG called EM Brands, The Kroger Company, and currently work for C.A. Fortune as the Kroger Omnichannel Account Manager. I am passionate about data and the insights that fuel value for the consumer at shelf.
As Solidarity and Kinship Chair, I strive to bring together diverse groups across different backgrounds and majors within the Graduate Programs. Xavier is where I found my best friend and I hope to help you do the same at one of our events. If you have any questions or ideas don’t hesitate to reach out or stop by one of our meetings!