Lute Salute Series

TACOMA, Wash. - Pacific Lutheran University women's swimmer Kiyomi Kishaba made the most of her time on campus, both in the water and in her involvement on campus.
 

Hometown: San Diego, Calif.

Highlights: 9-time All-NWC 3-time NWC Dual Meet Champions 26-4 in dual meets

Kishaba grew up as a competitive synchronized swimmer. A passion she pursued for eight years before transitioning to swimming her junior year of high school. 
 
Once at PLU, the San Diego, California native made a significant impact on the squad. Kishaba was a nine-time All-Northwest Conference selection, helping the Lutes amass an impressive 26-4 dual meet record the past four seasons. That includes a 24-2 record against the NWC and a 13-1 mark at the PLU Pool. Kishaba's four-year run included an undefeated record against conference foes at home and ending her career winning 18 consecutive dual meets.
 
Kishaba's time in the water taught her many life skills she will use in her professional life.
 
"Athletics has taught me to never underestimate myself, whether that is in a race, a hard set at practice, or dealing with many responsibilities at once. I think that self-confidence will help me be successful wherever I end up in the future."
 
Despite all her success, Kishaba's favorite memories aren't from the victories in the pool but the moments spent with her teammates.
 
"One of my favorite memories is spending New Year's Eve at Santa Monica Pier with the team on our training trip to Cal Lutheran my junior year. We explored the pier, got ice cream, went shopping, and played some games on the beach. It was awesome to take a break from our hard training and just enjoy being together in a beautiful place!" said Kishaba.
 
When she wasn't in the water, Kishaba could be seen across campus pursuing her many passions. An avid writer, Kishaba served as the opinion editor for the MAST, PLU's student newspaper, in addition to co-editor and business manager responsibilities with Saxifrage, PLU's literary and arts journal. The California additionally was a writer for the sports information office and was involved with the PLU swing dance club. 
 
"During my junior year I performed in the winter dance showcase as part of swing club. It was a ton of fun rehearsing and meeting new people, and I just love dancing!"
 
A four-time NWC All-Academic Award winner and a member of Chi Alpha Sigma, Kishaba graduated with degrees English Writing and Communication with a minor in Hispanic studies. Kishaba remains in the area post-graduation, now working as a development & events associate at nearby Saint Martin's University in Lacey, Washington.