REDMOND, Wash. --- After watching two older siblings enroll at Biola before her, distance swimmer Katelyn Harper decided Biola would be just as good for her aspirations to pursue a nursing degree and swim at a competitive level.

The Redmond, Washington native will continue her athletic career with the Eagles after swimming four varsity seasons as Redmond High School and completing her academic requirements through the Cedar Park Christian School. Harper qualified for Washington State Championship events all four year she swan at Redmond and finished fifth at the state championships in the 500-free this year.

Head Coach Ryan Kauth believes the success Harper showed in the IM and distance events at those championships will make her a valuable asset for the Eagles when she enrolls in the fall.

"We are ecstatic to bring Katelyn on board for the Class of 2018 and I think that she brings great versatility to our team, and will create a name for herself right away," said Kauth. "Her range from distance freestyles to IMs fill a gap that will make us a tough team to beat at dual meets, as well as score valuable points at invitationals. We look forward to continuing to build Katelyn's competitive edge and take her to the next level."

Harper's high school team was also named the Washington Interscholastic Athletic Association State Academic Champions in 2015, and she intends to continue her success in the classroom at Biola by participating in the Torrey Honors Institute while pursuing her nursing major. She hopes that degree will lead her into a career as a labor and delivery nurse.