Kristen N. Hayden is an accomplished scholar-athlete, media professional, and dynamic leader with a distinguished career in both athletics and academia. As a two-time USA Olympic Diving Team alternate (2021, 2024) and a gold medalist at the 2022 World Aquatics Diving World Cup in Berlin and the 2024 Canada World Cup, Kristen has demonstrated exceptional dedication, resilience, and competitive excellence. She is also a top contender for the 2028 Olympic Team.

Kristen holds a Bachelor of Liberal Studies degree from Indiana University, graduating with an outstanding 3.994 GPA. Her academic journey reflects a passion for communication, media, and leadership, with coursework spanning Organizational Communication, Public Speaking, and Social Media. Recognized for her academic prowess, she was honored as an IU Founder Scholar and a Top 10 Division I Honoree for the NCAA Woman of the Year Award in 2023. Both of these awards are for student-athletes who excel both in their sport and in the classroom.

Kristen made history as the first African American woman to win a national title in USA Diving and the first African American to represent Team USA at an international competition on both the Junior and Senior levels. These groundbreaking achievements highlight her role as a trailblazer in the sport, inspiring future generations of athletes.

Beyond the pool, Kristen has carved out a significant presence in media and brand partnerships. As a social media influencer with over 129,000 followers, she has created compelling content for notable brands like Adidas, Crocs, JOYLN, CVS, Stanley, and Lulus. Her media expertise extends to roles with ESPN College GameDay, Fox Sports, and as an Archiver for the Olympic Broadcast Center during the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Kristen’s leadership extends to her role as a founding member of USA Diving’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She is also a disability advocate and has served as a keynote speaker at the global business conference, Disability:In. In the media space, she has experience as a diving color analyst and has covered the B1G Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships. She is also a part of IU TV’s Production Crew that produces for Big Ten Plus and ESPN plus.

Her work as an Athlete Tax Liaison for the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, an Academic Mentor for IU student-athletes, and as a head high school diving coach underscores her commitment to supporting athletes both in and out of competition.

Kristen Hayden embodies the spirit of excellence, leadership, and innovation, making a lasting impact in sports, media, and beyond.