Discipline, Leadership, and Discovery

Before her first chemistry lab or leadership class, Kayla Lippincott Boynton ’21 was already preparing to lead and serve. Through Bradley University’s Army ROTC program, she found a path that blended academic challenge with discipline, purpose, and hands-on leadership, shaping both her college experience and her career in the U.S. Army.

Boynton earned a four-year Army ROTC scholarship while in high school, covering 100% of her tuition along with a monthly stipend and annual book allowance. In return, she committed to eight years of service in the U.S. Army, which can be completed through active duty, the Army Reserve, or the Army National Guard.

“ROTC became one of my favorite parts of college,” Boynton said. “It gave me structure, made me focus on health and wellness, and developed my leadership skills.”

While majoring in chemistry, she balanced ROTC training with coursework and campus involvement. Early-morning physical training, weekly leadership labs, and Military Science courses each semester provided consistency and hands-on leadership experience. She credits Bradley’s midsize campus and supportive faculty with making it all manageable.

“Professors were approachable, resources were accessible, and there was flexibility when I needed it,” she said. “Bradley made it possible for me to succeed academically while fully participating in ROTC.”

As a senior, Boynton competed for one of the Army’s 17 branches and was selected for the Chemical Corps—an ideal match for her academic background. Today, she serves as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Officer in the U.S. Army, where she is responsible for protecting soldiers and units from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.

In her role, Boynton assesses and responds to hazardous situations, supports operational planning, and advises commanders on CBRN risk and protection strategies. She is certified in HAZMAT operations and toxic materials management, using her chemistry training daily in both operational and peacetime environments.

She credits Dr. Dean Campbell, a professor in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, for inspiring her to become a lifelong scientist and researcher. “His teaching style and discipline influenced how I communicate about chemical hazards at my job, making them understandable to everyone,” Boynton explained. “I wouldn’t be half the scientist I am today without his mentorship, and I am forever thankful for him.”

Campbell noted, “Kayla has this trifecta of academic excellence, strong work ethic, and positivity that places her among the very best of student collaborators. Working with her, even on challenging projects, was a great experience and honor for me.”

Looking back, Boynton says choosing Bradley, and Army ROTC, set her on a path with purpose. “Bradley gave me a home, an education, and a family,” she said. “ROTC showed me what I was capable of. I’m proud to serve, and I’m proud to be a Bradley Brave.”

—Emily Potts