One Course At A Time teaches students to think fast and work with focus—skills Hannah Koenighain ’26 will carry with her after graduation as this sociology major tackles two master’s degrees.
This fall, she’ll begin programs at the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago: a master’s in social work, with a specialization in children and families, and a master’s in public health, with a specialization in health policy and administration.
“I plan to continue to advocate for survivors of gender-based violence and children with trauma,” Koenighain said.
Koenighain was taught from a young age to treat people with kindness and empathy and speak up when something is wrong. Although she knew she wanted to help others, it wasn’t until she came to Cornell that her vision came into focus.
“I thought that career would be in the medical field, but Tori Barnes-Brus’ Reproductive Policies, Reproductive Practices course opened a new window,” she said. “I left the school for a semester as I struggled to find my identity, but I came back to Cornell and declared my major as sociology because I missed how much I enjoyed Tori's classes and how Cornell made me feel at home.”
According to Koenighain, Professor of Sociology Tori Barnes-Brus had a major impact on her journey and was the “true definition of selfless.” Barnes-Brus was always there to help and supported Koehnighan’s ideas, helping her to feel prepared for what’s next
“Cornell taught me skills such as qualitative and quantitative reasoning, time management, and a sociological perspective within a social justice framework,” she said. “I feel ready to take on the future.”
Barnes-Brus says Koenighain has thrived as a student leader for feminist issues, mental health and survivor support, and applying research-driven models to real-world policy.
“She applies her sociological insight with genuine compassion, and she has proven herself to be a deeply thoughtful, trauma-informed advocate,” Barnes-Brus said. “Hannah hasn’t just excelled academically; she has translated her Cornell education into meaningful action, making her an emerging voice in the next generation of social work and public health professionals. I couldn't be more proud of Hannah's journey at Cornell and her plans for the future!”
For this senior profile, we asked Koenighain a few questions before she graduated. Here’s what she said in her own words:
What was your biggest achievement while at Cornell, and what does it mean to you?
My biggest achievement is graduating on time despite taking a semester off and several health withdrawals. I have always struggled immensely with my mental health, and when I came back to Cornell, I made it my mission to ensure I would graduate on time and put my all into my work, which also landed me on the Provost’s List.
What experiential learning opportunities did you participate in during your time here?
I did career exploration with the University of Iowa's Emergency Learning Resource Center and obtained my EMT certification. I have also participated in the Iowa Sociological Association’s annual conference that highlights undergraduate research.
Were you involved in any extracurricular activities or student organizations?
I was the co-president of the Third Wave Resource Group (TWRG), a sexual assault advocate at Riverview Center, and a youth service worker at Tanager Place.
How did your involvement in either experiential learning or student activities shape your experience here?
My time with the sociology department has ultimately shaped my time at and outside of Cornell. Tori, Erin (Davis), and Mary (Olson) have majorly influenced my decision to become a sociology major and given me the guidance to turn my passion for social justice and advocating for others into a career. TWRG has opened opportunities to make connections with the Cornell community and Linn County, while giving me the space to work on communication skills, education, and applying a feminist lens.
What’s a value or lesson from college you want to keep living out?
Study what you love, and you will never work a day in your life.