Meet the Everyday Hero: Abington Student-Athlete Balancing Firefighting, Lifeguarding, and Academic Excellence at Penn State University

ABINGTON, Pa. — Nina Maxwell embodies a spirit of service. A criminal justice major at Penn State Abington, she’s gearing up for a career in local law enforcement. In her spare time, she volunteers as a probationary firefighter near her home in Bucks County. Additionally, she lifeguards and coaches swimming at her local club.

Her commitment to her community truly shines through her actions. Recently, she discovered that some of her teammates on the Abington cross-country team were not comfortable in the water. According to the CDC, a lack of swimming skills is a major cause of drownings in the U.S.

“Some of them said they would drown — literally,” Nina shared. “So, I decided to offer them free swimming lessons.”

Despite her busy schedule filled with classes, cross-country practices, firefighter training, and coaching, Nina has made it a priority to help others. She spends nearly 20 hours a week on training and community service.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Jill Swavely, her assistant coach, remarked, “Nina shows our team the importance of giving back — to your teammates, your community, and yourself. Cross-country isn’t just about racing; it’s about resilience and teamwork.”

Head coach Mike Patterson added, “Nina’s toughness shines through. Her experience as a firefighter helps her stay calm under pressure. She pushes through pain and always gives her best.”

Interestingly, Nina’s journey into running was unexpected. She met both Patterson and Swavely during new student orientation and thought joining the NCAA Division III team would be a fun way to connect with others.

“I love running and being active with people who share my interests,” she said. “It creates a small, close-knit community where I can also cross-train for firefighting.”

Adding to her narrative, recent statistics from a national survey revealed that nearly 60% of adults in the U.S. don’t feel confident in their swimming skills. This highlights a critical need for swimming education, especially in communities with fewer resources.

In a world where many are disconnected, Nina’s story demonstrates the power of community and the importance of stepping up for one another. It’s not just about individual pursuits; it’s about lifting those around us and creating a safer, more connected place to live.

This community spirit echoes across social media, where more young people are sharing their experiences and looking for ways to give back. Initiatives like Nina’s remind us that small acts of kindness can lead to significant change.



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