Kaylynn McClimans, one of the National Leaders Collective’s (NLC) leaders of the month, is a Students for Life of America (SFLA) Christian Leadership Fellow attending Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Learn more about McCliman’s activism, in her own words, below.  

I became involved in the pro-life movement during my freshman year at Gonzaga University. At first, I wasn’t consistently attending meetings. However, I ended up living with several members of the SFLA group’s board, which kept me connected to the cause.   

During my sophomore year, while in prayer, I received a vision from the Lord of an abortion procedure. In that moment, I felt the Lord asking me whether I was “in or out” when it came to taking a stance on this issue. I said yes out of obedience and willingness to be led wherever He called me. That fall, I began attending SFLA meetings again and was soon invited to join the board as the Community Outreach Coordinator.   

By the spring, I had the honor of representing the group on a panel hosted by another campus organization, Courageous Conversations, where we discussed the topic of reproductive justice. While I felt deeply convicted about the horror of abortion, I struggled to articulate my beliefs during the panel. Still, being challenged and stretched in articulating my beliefs was a blessing. The following year, I was honored to be asked to serve as Vice President of the group. That role led to a nomination by the SFLA Regional Coordinator to join the NLC Christian Leadership Fellowship program—a transformative experience. The NLC opened unexpected doors and clarified my role in the pro-life movement by allowing me to learn from those who have been part of it since the beginning.  

I recently completed the Christian Leadership Fellowship. The former SFLA Regional Coordinator for the Pacific Northwest nominated me for the program, which encouraged me to apply. I believed they saw potential in me as a leader. I also recognized that the NLC could significantly shape and sharpen my leadership skills, making me more effective and intentional in my efforts.  

The NLC program has been a turning point in my leadership journey. While I’ve always been involved in church ministry and school activities, this was my first time stepping into leadership, specifically within the pro-life movement. I have since realized that the fight for Life is a massive battle, and each person has a part to play. This awareness has deepened my commitment and given me a greater responsibility to use my voice and skills to advocate for Life.  

I’ve grown immensely as a leader through the opportunity to collaborate with others who have long been engaged in this cause. Their dedication and wisdom have not only inspired me but have also become integral to my personal growth. I’ve learned lessons that go beyond advocacy and have influenced how I lead in all areas of life.  

One of the biggest takeaways from my time in NLC has been the importance of community. My understanding of leadership has deepened: a strong, supportive community is essential. It’s the foundation that enables leaders to thrive and endure. 

I’m excited to share my top pro-life accomplishments this year:  

Holding a Defund Planned Parenthood Rally  

The Gonzaga University SFLA group organized a rally as part of the Defund Planned Parenthood campaign. We gathered outside the local Planned Parenthood, which is located right next to the university. Our group assembled and held the Cemetery of the Innocents, which displays 1,076 pink crosses as a peaceful visual witness for life. Members of the community, Knights of Columbus, Sidewalk Advocates for Life, and 40 Days for Life joined us, bringing the total attendance to about 25 people. It was a decisive moment of unity and public witness among different pro-life groups in our community. 

Starting the Abortion Free Cities Campaign in Spokane  

As I approached college graduation, I knew I didn’t want my time in school to end without continuing to take action in the fight against abortion. When I learned about SFLA’s Abortion Free Cities Campaign (AFC)—and saw that Spokane wasn’t yet involved—I felt called to bring the initiative here. It was the perfect opportunity and challenge to continue advocating for life while engaging and educating the community about the harm caused by abortion.  

Taking a Group to Washington, D.C. for the Pro-Life March  

During the fall semester, I organized and led a small team to attend the National Pro-Life March in Washington, D.C. Through a group effort, we raised $5,000 to send a team of four. Though the trip was brief, the experience was deeply impactful. I’m incredibly grateful that the Lord provided the guidance and the resources to make this journey possible. The powerful speeches, the overwhelming number of people united for Life, and the new friendships we formed all left a lasting impression, fueling our passion to continue fighting for the dignity of every life.  

After completing the NLC program, I’m excited to stay connected to a community that is actively fighting abortion and supporting one another to keep pressing forward. I look forward to watching future graduates grow into bold, effective leaders who champion the dignity of every human life. 

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