Kristen Hayden Breaks Barriers With Historic Diving Title
In December 2021, 23-year-old diver Kristen Hayden made history by becoming the first Black woman to win a U.S. senior national diving title. Teaming with freshman Quinn Henninger, Hayden won the mixed synchronized 3-meter event at the USA Diving Winter National Championships.
“I don’t think words can describe the feeling,” Hayden told USA Diving. “You read about people like that. You watch Serena Williams, Simone Biles, Simone Manuel — but when it’s yourself, it’s insane.”
The victory was even more notable given it was the first synchro competition for the duo. But they took the lead on their third dive and never looked back, winning by three points.
“I think the whole diving community is headed in the right direction, and I just want to be a good example for young Black Americans, or any minority really, for diving in the U.S.,” Hayden added.
In the process, the Hillsborough, New Jersey native also became the first Black American diver to earn a bid to the FINA World Aquatics Championships, being held in Japan later this year.
Diving Standout Making Waves On and Off the Board
A graduate student at Indiana University, Hayden only took up diving at age 10 but quickly excelled. She is also a founding member of USA Diving’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council.
During the pandemic, the New Jersey native facilitated virtual diving and strength workouts for youth divers. She helped create initiatives to make the sport more inclusive for minorities.
Hayden is also a leader off the board. A summa cum laude graduate, she is a three-time CSCAA Scholar All-American. She earned the 2022 Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor for combined academic and athletic excellence.
The academic standout was recently recognized as a 2023 Indiana University Founders Scholar.
Woman of the Year Finalist Leaves Lasting Legacy
With her accomplishments in the classroom, in competition, and in her community, it is no surprise that Hayden was named a Top 30 national honoree for the 2023 NCAA Woman of the Year Award.
She is a contributing author to the book “Dear Rebel,” written to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams. An auditory processing disorder diagnosis did not deter the inspirational Hayden.
From barrier-breaking diver to scholar and selfless community leader, Kristen Hayden has undoubtedly left her mark on diving, Indiana University, and as a role model for young women of color across the country.
