Kennedy Harter transitioned from North Dakota State University to Bismarck State College to better align with her athletic and educational aspirations. This decision allowed her to focus on track, basketball, and pursuing a career in surgical technology.
A track record of success
Harter entered college with an impressive track and field resume. She was a four-time North Dakota Class B state champion in the triple jump and also earned four state placements in the long jump and three in the high jump. In her senior year of high school, she was honored as the North Dakota Track & Field Athlete of the Year. Her success caught the attention of North Dakota State University, where she became part of the Bison track team in Fargo.
Her first year at NDSU was marked by a setback — an ACL tear. The injury, which occurred in a minor accident at the end of the season, led to a seven-to-eight-month recovery period. Despite the challenges, Harter red-shirted the indoor season and returned to competition in the outdoor season.
The pivot to Bismarck State
After two seasons at NDSU, Harter made the strategic decision to transfer to Bismarck State College. The move provided her with the opportunity to train at a high level while pursuing a degree in surgical technology — a field she had always been interested in. It also brought her back to a familiar basketball environment. Harter played in 20 games for the BSC basketball team, averaging 4.7 points per game and converting 5 of her 8 free throw attempts.
Although she enjoyed playing basketball again, Harter plans to concentrate fully on track during her final year. This shift will allow her to channel all her energy into achieving her athletic goals.
Longer jumps, bigger goals
At BSC, Harter has continued to make significant strides in her track career. In the triple jump, she posted a season best of 12.18 meters — equivalent to 39.96 feet — this season. While this performance brought her closer to her goal of 12.50 meters, she now wants to consistently hit that mark.
In the long jump, she recorded a distance of 18.84 feet — or 5.74 meters — during this season. Harter has always aimed to break the 12-meter barrier in the triple jump, and she now wants to maintain her performance at that level. Her determination reflects her long-term vision for her track career.
Beyond the track, Harter plans to stay in Bismarck to begin her career in surgical technology after her final year. She also has aspirations in coaching, expressing interest in basketball, volleyball, and track. Harter enjoys helping others and says coaching is something she has always wanted to do.