McKenna earned a B.S. in marine biology from San Diego State University before embarking on careers as a park ranger, then a college access advisor for first-generation and low-income students. She earned a Master of Professional Communication degree from Weber State University and quickly fell in love with the art and science of science communication. She is now pursuing a Ph.D. to better understand public perceptions of science, especially related to climate change and environmental hazards, and the role misinformation plays in those perceptions. She aims to enhance public understanding of complex scientific topics and ultimately promote informed decision-making for a more sustainable future. She is affiliated with the Center for Science Communication Research and the CAIDe Lab at the University of Oregon.