University of Colorado women’s cross country and track athlete Jessie Secor shared on Jan. 15 that her approach to running is shaped by faith, perspective, and the people around her, rather than just race times or placements.
Secor’s outlook stands out in a sport often focused on statistics. She said, “I would describe myself first as a believer. Running is something I love and something I work hard at, but it does not define who I am.” This mindset has guided her through a notable collegiate career that includes championship appearances and a significant transfer from the University of Tennessee to Colorado.
Growing up as one of five siblings in Louisville, Kentucky, Secor was used to competition at home. “That environment gives you tough skin,” she said. “It also makes you competitive in a healthy way.” After earning All SEC and All Region honors as a freshman at Tennessee, she decided to follow head coach Sean Carlson to Colorado Boulder—a move that required adaptation both culturally and athletically.
Secor described the transition: “You come here and fall in love with the mountains, the people and the places to run. It felt right.” Adjusting to training at altitude brought challenges but also growth. “You have to be OK with failure,” she said. “Learning how to not let a bad day spiral you has been huge for my growth.” Her progress was evident when she qualified individually for the NCAA Cross Country Championships during her first season with Colorado.
This year, Secor achieved her goal of returning to nationals with her team. “Going with the team meant so much more,” she said. “It was more fun and more fulfilling.” On the track, she now ranks second all-time for Colorado in the indoor 3,000 meters with a time of 8:50.63—a result she attributes to consistency and improved communication with coaches.
Outside athletics, Secor balances double majors in psychology and speech language hearing sciences while planning for a future in elementary education. She finds relaxation through baking, sewing, and embroidery—activities that help her stay present amid busy routines.
Looking ahead, Secor remains focused on steady improvement rather than accolades: “I hope my legacy is not about the times I ran,” she said. “I hope it is about the person I was and how I made people feel.” The Buffaloes will begin their 2026 home season at the Potts Invitational on Jan. 17.
