CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Being a student-athlete at any level can have its ups and downs. The balance of school and sports can be difficult at times, but it’s all about time management and understanding that you are a student first and an athlete second.
Kiarra Fennell has learned a lot in her time at Nebraska Wesleyan University, and being a women’s track & field student-athlete in the American Rivers Conference has helped her grow.
Fennell is one of the best student-athletes in the country and is proud to represent NWU and the A-R-C.
Why NWU?
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The recruiting process is one of the most critical aspects of a student-athlete’s journey. Fennell wasn’t sure what she wanted to do in college or whether she wanted to compete in college.
She was recruited by NWU’s head coach, Derrick McKenzie, who called and texted her frequently.
“At the time, I had little interest in competing in track and field collegiately,” Fennell said. “I had a love for volleyball and basketball more than track. I transferred to a bigger school, and I couldn’t do the sports I loved, which meant I would have to love a sport that I also demised.”
Fennell didn’t have many college options and asked Coach McKenzie if his offer was still available.
“The rest is history,” Fennell said. “He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity he’s given me.”
Fennell is a standout student-athlete for NWU.
She was named to the 2022 USTFCCCA NCAA Division III Indoor Track & Field All-Region Team, earned a USTFCCCA NCAA Division III Indoor Track & Field All-American honor, and was named the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Central Region Women’s Track Athlete of the Year.
She loves being a student-athlete at NWU and the A-R-C.
“I chose NWU because it felt like home since my first visit,” Fennell said. “I knew that I would have many interactions with faculty members and instructors that would better my future. Most importantly, I chose NWU for their amazing athletic training program and to participate in track and field.”
Embracing Division III
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The Division III level provides student-athletes with a unique experience. They have the opportunity to compete at a high level while receiving a quality education.
For Fennell, she enjoys competing in the A-R-C.
“Being in the American Rivers Conference is an absolute shocker,” Fennell said. “Our conference holds some of the country’s best collegiate athletes, and it shows in our work. The part I love the most is the fun with the competition. Our A-R-C schools compete with each other but also cheer and support each other as if we were all on the same team.”
As a student-athlete, Fennell understands the importance of going to a school where she can represent both on and off the track.
For Fennell, she’s proud to wear NWU on her chest and represent the A-R-C.
“My favorite sports memory at Nebraska Wesleyan would be the moment that I qualified and would be competing at the National DIII level,” Fennell said. “It wasn’t a dream come true but all the time and dedication I put in paid off.”
It’s not easy being a student-athlete, but Fennell is grateful for the opportunity to compete at the high level in the A-R-C.
She’s proud to represent NWU in one of the best conferences in the country.
A Different Side
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There’s more to student-athletes than what you see on the track or field. They have different hobbies and interests outside of sports.
When Fennell isn’t competing, she enjoys browsing Facebook Marketplace, looking at car parts, and taking a nap.
But there’s something you may not know about Fennell.
“I want people to know that I put my mind into things toward getting better,” Fennell said. “Not to show off and declare dominance. I am competitive, but I do so humbly.”
Fennell has a competitive nature, but she doesn’t think she has to flaunt it to the world. She’s focused on being the best student-athlete she can be for NWU and the A-R-C.
Fennell is a young, talented student-athlete who has a bright future ahead of her.
In addition to being an outstanding student-athlete, Fennell has big dreams for her future.
“My career goal is to be the change that I didn’t have,” Fennell said. “I chose to major in athletic training because I didn’t have one for most of my sports career. I understand how important their jobs are and how much I wish I had them when I needed it.”
Fennell’s ultimate goal is to inspire others and make a difference in their lives.
She aspires to be a business owner and help athletes perform at their best both physically and mentally.
The life of a student-athlete is challenging, but it’s also rewarding.
Fennell is doing what she loves at NWU, and she’s excited about what the future holds for her.
Whether it’s competing on the track or working hard in the classroom, Fennell is chasing her dreams and making the most of her time at NWU.
Don't forget to become a fan of the American Rivers Conference on Facebook @AmericanRiversConference, X (Twitter) @AmerRiversConf, and Instagram @AmericanRiversConference.
About the American Rivers Conference
The Conference dates back to December 8, 1922, when representatives from 12 colleges got together and formed the "Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association." Honoring its heritage in Iowa and its expansion outside the state, the American Rivers Conference brand was established on August 9, 2018, to build on the academic and athletic success provided by its legacy, the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The A-R-C has nine full-time members: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Luther College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College.
