06/12/2026
“My proudest accomplishment at Duquesne was chartering the first and only multicultural sorority Alpha Phi Gamma with my six line sisters and it's just really exciting to see how our community has grown.”
Duquesne University Liberal Arts Political Science and Psychology graduate Malka Gendlin can definitely say that she took full advantage of her opportunities while on the Bluff.
The McDowell High School (Erie, Pa.) graduate also earned minors in Philosophy, Communications and African Studies and was a winner of The Center, Duquesne University's Spirit of Community Building award. The Center’s Executive Director Dr. Quincy Stephenson noted that, “the award winners truly embody what it means to be a part of the moral compass here.”
Malka’s passion to serve others started early. After taking part in the Pre-O program, she decided to pay it forward by volunteering as a leader her second year to help new students adjust to college life.
That spirit continued as president of the Art Club and a member of the Speech and Debate team. Malka also volunteered as a mentor for Duquesne’s Compass program, a four-year inclusive post-secondary education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
What’s next for Malka?
She’s headed to the Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University for law school. Her bigger goal is to create a more accessible understanding of the law, with a focus on the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“Dr. Kristen Coopie is one of the many faculty and staff members who has a special place in my heart for the work she’s done. She was one of the first faculty members I met during FAST before I had even officially become a student and helped solidify my confidence with coming to Duquesne,” she said.
“I was unsure if I even wanted to pursue law school at that time, but through my Learning Community I had a class with Dr. Coopie and it helped foster the love for political science that I have today!”
Being the Pre-Law director and advisor, “Dr. Coopie was also there for me both academically and emotionally while I was preparing to apply for law school. She checked in on me after my LSAT score was released and gave me prep resources, helping me feel less alone during such a stressful period.”
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