Liberal Arts student overcomes health challenges, aims to impact health care

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Gwynne Morris, a first-year Penn State student majoring in political science from Loganton, Pennsylvania, is no ordinary student. She is the first student that the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has sent to college with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a life-saving mechanical pump that helps the heart pump blood to the rest of the body. 

It has been less than a year since Morris learned she has a heart condition that will require her to need a new heart. She said her journey has already taught her a lot about resilience, ambition and dedication at a young age, and her commitment to public policy and her determination to thrive despite medical challenges have already set her apart as a role model for both her peers at Penn State and the broader community.

For Morris, who grew up familiar with Penn State University Park since her father works on the campus, there was a lot to love about Penn State, which, she said, helped solidify her decision to become a Nittany Lion.

“I chose Penn State because of the student culture, professionalism, beauty and architecture, opportunities, community and thoroughness of the education I would receive here,” Morris said.

Morris’ decision to major in political science stems from her deep-rooted interest in government and public policy. With a vision of creating a more equitable world, Morris hopes to influence public policy in a way that benefits all people, particularly when it comes to health care. Her personal experiences with CHOP’s health care system have shaped her desire to make a positive impact in the politics.

“I believe in a future where people have access to medical care and resources to live better and healthier lives,” she said.

As the first student to attend college with an LVAD from CHOP, Morris said her experience managing her health while pursuing a degree has been pretty smooth so far. Having had the device for nearly a year, she noted that it hasn’t significantly impacted her daily life.

“I’ve become so used to having the LVAD that I don’t think very much about it. My routine hasn’t changed much since arriving at the University," Morris said.

However, she said, she did prepare extensively before starting college, working closely with Student Disability Resources and University Health Services (UHS) to ensure that proper accommodations were made available. From arranging her own room with a private bathroom to notifying UHS in case of emergencies, Morris prioritized her health without hindering her ability to fully engage in the college experience.

Living with an LVAD requires certain adjustments, but Morris said she handles it with relative ease. Her device is always with her, and she relies on rechargeable batteries — “I must ‘plug into’ the wall every night,” Morris said.

Although she’s unable to swim and limits her showers to once a week, she said these lifestyle changes have become a normal part of her routine.

Morris attributes much of her success to her family, the team at CHOP and the supportive community in her hometown. She said her proudest moment came when she graduated as valedictorian of her high school class this past June, despite missing four months of school due to her health challenges.

“I felt particularly proud giving my graduation speech, knowing how much I had worked throughout my schooling to get there," she said.

Morris’ experiences with CHOP and managing her health have directly influenced her interest in political science, particularly health care policy. She said she believes that everyone should have access to the same level of care that she received, and she hopes to influence future legislation to make that a reality.

During her time at Penn State, Morris said she wants to grow both academically and personally. She is passionate about becoming a better leader, a more authentic person and an active listener. Outside of the classroom, she is involved with Project 26 Pennsylvania, Penn State College Democrats and the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity. She said her involvements with these organizations not only align with her political aspirations but also allow her to connect with a wide range of students. As a transgender student who recently began her social transition, Morris said her identity also informs her passion for service and public policy.