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From the pool to medical school

McKenna DeBever with her supportive family at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. From left to right: brother Riley, sister Alexis, McKenna, dad Steve, sister Taylor and mom Alex.

McKenna DeBever grew up in Highlands Ranch and is a two-time Olympic swimmer who has traveled all over the world, competing on the international stage. A swimmer with the Highlands Ranch Community Association Seahawks from age 5, McKenna, now 29 and living with her family in The Canyons neighborhood, said she feels “fulfilled and accomplished and grateful” as she transitions away from swimming competitively into a new chapter in her life, medical school.

McKenna comes from an athletic family, with parents who competed in crew in college and siblings who also swim competitively. McKenna shared, “My parents are incredibly supportive. I’ve been very lucky to have great support and really good role models.”

McKenna has tri-citizenship in America, Peru and Italy. Since her mother is Peruvian, her grandfather suggested she represent Peru many years ago. “It keeps me close with that side of the family,” McKenna said.

McKenna attended Auburn University and Texas A&M and specialized in freestyle, backstroke and individual medley during her collegiate swimming career. McKenna later qualified for the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo. Covid restrictions made the experience challenging, with no spectators, including family, allowed.

Qualifying and competing in the Paris Olympics in 2024 was serendipitous. McKenna took time off for her master’s program and applied to medical school. “I ended up not getting into medical school at first, which was a blessing in disguise.” McKenna felt it was a sign to go for another Olympic cycle. At age 28, which McKenna said is not prime time, she had her best swim times and performed “super well.” Her family cheered her on. McKenna exclaimed, “I was lucky to be able to attend the opening ceremonies along the Seine River with Celine Dion singing. It was absolutely incredible.”

Competing in seven world championships took McKenna and her family all around the globe, “getting to know people, making new friends and experiencing other cultures,” she said.

“There’s always people out there who are better, whether it’s swimming or school, but I think I have accomplished what I have because I have an insane drive and work ethic. Hard work always pays off,” McKenna explained.

McKenna shared that it is important to her to give back to her community and her sport; therefore, she has taught competitive swimming as well as learn-to-swim classes for the past 10 years. She is teaching this summer in Castle Pines as time and pool availability allows.

McKenna’s drive and dedication landed her acceptance into seven medical schools, including her dream school, the University of Texas Medical Branch. McKenna moves to Texas and starts in August. She concluded, “You can accomplish anything you set your mind to, anything you want.”

McKenna DeBever at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. With her family cheering her on, McKenna had some of her best swim times as she competed.

 

By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of McKenna DeBever

CPC

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