“I wasn’t sure a small college in Iowa could provide the full college experience, but Stew McDole convinced me Graceland was the right fit—and he was absolutely right. The friendships, skills, and experiences I gained set me up for lifelong success.”
-Katie Heinrich
Current Role:
Katie Heinrich is currently a Senior Researcher for The Phoenix, a nonprofit organization that offers a sober active community to individuals with at least 48 hours of sobriety. Since January 2023, Katie has been analyzing and sharing data on members, designing and conducting research, and collaborating with external partners to support The Phoenix’s mission. Her work demonstrates how the organization transforms lives through activities such as yoga, CrossFit, book clubs, and concerts, all accessible via The Phoenix app.
One of her recent achievements includes publishing a report, The Transformative Power of a Sober Active Community: An Accessible Approach to Healing, which highlights the organization’s profound impact on its members.
Before joining The Phoenix, Katie served as the interim department head and professor of kinesiology at Kansas State University. She conducted applied exercise behavior research, primarily focused on CrossFit, studying the mental, physical, and social benefits of participation. During her tenure, Katie secured over $3.4 million in research funding, published more than 120 peer-reviewed articles, and mentored over 70 students, including 27 as a major professor. She also supported 46 undergraduate researchers in her Functional Intensity Training Lab.
Katie’s career began at the University of Hawaii in the Department of Public Health Sciences, where she evaluated the Healthy Hawaii Initiative in collaboration with the State of Hawaii Department of Health. It was there that she was introduced to CrossFit, which would shape her career trajectory.
Graceland Journey:
Katie graduated in May 1999 as part of Graceland College’s last graduating class (becoming Graceland University the following year), with Al Gore as the commencement speaker. She earned a double major in Psychology and Sports Science.
Campus Life:
Katie lived on Hanthorne House during her first two years at Graceland, cherishing the friendships and connections she built across campus. She fondly remembers spending time with friends and embracing Graceland’s vibrant community
Activities and Honors:
Katie was highly involved in campus life, participating in volleyball, track and field, and cheerleading for the basketball teams—culminating in a Nationals appearance in 1999. She also sang in the choir and spent four summers as a Graceland Rep, traveling across the U.S. and Canada to represent the university. Her dedication earned her several honors, including:
- Student Life Award (1999)
- NAIA Academic All-American (1998-1999)
- All-Conference Honors in Track and Field (1996-1999)
- Membership in Alpha Chi Honor Society
- Graduating Magna Cum Laude
Leadership:
Katie served as the intramural representative for Hanthorne House and was a JV volleyball captain during her senior year. These roles taught her the importance of collaboration and adaptability—skills she continues to use in her professional and personal life.
Life After Graceland:
Coming from a small Kansas town, Katie appreciated Graceland’s close-knit community, which helped her grow both personally and academically. She credits the university with preparing her for graduate school and professional life, equipping her with the skills to excel as a researcher, faculty member, and parent.