Magdala D. Norton, born in Nassau, Bahamas to Haitian parents, moved to the U.S. at age 9 and became a lawful permanent resident in 2008. Driven by a passion for education, she quickly enrolled in college. In 2010, while pursuing her studies, Magdala enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, a master’s degree in Education, and a Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law, eventually passing the Maryland Bar Exam. In 2020, she commissioned as a Judge Advocate and entered active duty service with the U.S. Air Force.
Magdala currently serves as Disability Counsel with the Office of Disability at Cornell. With a career rooted in service, legal expertise, and advocacy, she continues to serve her country with unwavering dedication and integrity.
Beyond her role as a captain in the United States Air Force, Magdala is the co-owner of DalaDFitness, a fitness brand dedicated to helping individuals prioritize their health and well-being.
DalaDFitness was born during the COVID-19 pandemic. When gyms shut down and group fitness instructors were laid off, Magdala decided to move her fitness classes online, which ultimately led to the creation of DalaDFitness.
Fitness has always been a part of Magdala’s life. She fondly recalls childhood memories of her father taking the family to the park to exercise. Those moments felt like play, but they were also meaningful bonding times with her dad and siblings. This nostalgic connection has fueled her passion for fitness.
Through fitness, Magdala finds balance, coping with life’s challenges and becoming her best self—physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and even financially. To her, fitness is more than just physical exercise; it’s a holistic approach to life.