Science with Purpose: How Miss University of Louisville Is Advocating for Women's Health

By Stephanie Godward, Communications and Marketing Director , College of Arts & Sciences

Maycee Decker’s sense of scientific curiosity paired with her compassion as a caregiver is what drives her work as a molecular biology major, a philosophy minor in bioethics, and as Miss University of Louisville. 

“My molecular biology major gives me the scientific foundation for medical school, and understanding disease and treatments,” she said. "Bioethics challenges me to think about the human side of medicine, where compassion really comes through.” 

This intersection of science and service lies at the heart of Decker’s personal and professional goals. Competing as Miss University of Louisville gives her a platform to be an advocate. She took this advocacy even further with the creation of the nonprofit, BREAST Friends, which provides educational resources, financial assistance, and a place for peer support and information. 

“When I was 16 years old, I found out I had multiple fibroadenomas, which thankfully turned out to be benign. But I had no idea at the time about self-breast examinations or women's health in general,” she said. 

Decker then learned that she was diagnosed with Lynch syndrome, which significantly increases her lifetime risk for several types of cancers.  

“This really changed the way I viewed my health and my future. Being so young for both diagnoses, I realized how important early education, awareness, and being the biggest advocate for your own health care really is,” Decker said. “But I also noticed that many people my age weren't really having those conversations. Breast cancer is often seen as something that affects only older women. That mindset can delay awareness prevention and early detection.” 

Starting BREAST Friends was Decker’s way of turning something scary into something purposeful. The nonprofit stands beside individuals and families impacted by breast cancer, offering not only education but also the encouragement and understanding needed to navigate every stage of the journey. 

“I wanted to create a space where young people feel informed, empowered, and supported when it comes to their own health,” Decker said. 

Her experience competing as Miss University of Louisville and a Miss Kentucky contestant also has shaped her goals both academically and personally. 

"It has really strengthened my confidence and discipline, along with my sense of purpose,” Decker said. “These aren't just beauty pageants. They are foundations for women to truly spread their wings. It has pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and to use my voice in meaningful ways.” 

Academically, pageant competitions have also reinforced her interest in patient-centered health care, because of the many conversations she has had with so many different people from different backgrounds.  

“I think it's taught me resilience, time management, managing the responsibilities of a title and my personal life as a student, balancing a demanding academic schedule with community involvement, and still holding myself accountable,” Decker said. “But most importantly, I feel like it's shown me that leadership isn't just about titles, it's about service.” 

For other students pursuing careers in medicine, Decker encourages them to remain connected to their passion and purpose. 

"Remember what really matters is doing something that genuinely means something to you,” Decker said. “When your involvement aligns with your purpose, your passion, and your education, whether that's teaching children or health care or political science, then it doesn't become a burden and it feels like fulfillment.”