Oriana McKenzie is a living example of true girl grit! This senior at City Honors International Preparatory School (CHIPS) boasts a 4.67 GPA and is a finalist for both the Posse Foundation Scholarship (Pepperdine University) and the QuestBridge National College Match (Harvard or Yale University). Pursuing a pre-law track with a major in business and minors in marketing and media studies, she aspires to become a corporate entertainment attorney representing artists and athletes. She tells me she has always been fascinated by business logistics, policy making, and representation. Oriana says she wants to be in the rooms where change happens and represent people on and off screen.
Her leadership and professional preparation extend through several notable programs. At CHIPS, she participated in the Women In Entertainment Hollywood Reporters Program hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of LA, gaining mentorship from a Hulu/Disney executive and building professional confidence. She also engaged in Loyola Law School's Women In Law (WIL) Mentorship Program, attending monthly workshops with judges, attorneys, and law students, culminating in a mock trial presented before an active judge.
Beyond academics, Oriana serves as President of the Grades of Green environmental club, where she created a school garden and established a food recovery system for food-insecure families. Through Brotherhood Crusade, she completed over 300 hours of community service, including events for the Chris Paul Family Foundation/Club 61, the 2026 Democratic National Convention in Phoenix, and the 2026 NBA All-Star game. As a lifelong dancer and 2-year member of the Inglewood High School Marching Band Tall Flags team, she had the honor of performing at SoFi Stadium for a Rams vs. Seahawks game and in Washington D.C. for the 2025 4th of July parade. In her free time, Oriana enjoys reading, traveling, shopping, and event planning. She considers herself her own greatest inspiration as she continually challenges herself to accomplish new goals. Oriana has this advice for her fellow IUSD students: “The best investment you can make is in yourself.”