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Meet our Students: Kimani Griffin - USA Winter Olympian

 

Man speed skating at the Winter Olympics
Kimani Griffin competing at the 2018 Winter Olympics

Name: Kimani Griffin

Pronouns: he/him

Residence: West Jordan, UT

Major: Computer Science

Academic goals: Complete my undergraduate degree and finish my academic journey with a Masters in Computer Science. 

Dream job: Haven’t decided but perhaps a career in cyber security. 

Plan B: Any software engineering job with a focus on developing something surrounding minority groups. 

Why higher education: After retiring from Olympic sport, I needed a new goal. I decided to revisit college and rekindle my dream of being a college graduate. I believe our work here is never done and higher education gives me another outlet to continue to grow.

Why SLCC: SLCC gives me an opportunity to go back to college at a more affordable rate. It also has the same curriculum in the field of computer science as the University of Utah, which I plan on transferring to upon graduating. 

What motivates you or inspires you at school or in life: My mother has been my hero my entire life. We have both endured a lot of loss throughout life, but her unwavering support and unconditional love has always given me enough strength to keep striving for more. My faith in the divine spirit has also allowed me to stay motivated to dream and continue learning from all of life’s experiences. 

Meaningful life or career lessons you have learned so far: When you aren’t motivated, stay consistent. Consistency will bring back your motivation. Be humble. Dream big. Work hard. Be grateful for your story and your struggles. 

Hobbies: I have a clothing company called Eye Am I and I enjoy creating custom clothing. I’m an avid hiker and backcountry camper. I also love skiing and golfing. I’ve also been collecting “cool” looking rocks since I was a kid. 

Awards/accomplishments: Performing a solo classical guitar concert live on PBS, at Carnegie Hall, at 17 years old. Performing a solo concert in Italy at 18 years old. A member of the 2018 Winter Olympic speedskating team and an international competitor from 2014-2022. 

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