For Kriss Akabusi ’92, success has never been defined solely by medals. A three-time Olympian, world champion, television host, business leader, and motivational speaker, Akabusi has spent decades inspiring others. Among the many milestones that shaped his journey, his time as a student at Azusa Pacific University remains significant. At APU, he deepened his faith, strengthened his sense of calling, and was prepared for a life dedicated to serving others both on and off the track.
Originally from England, Akabusi first visited APU after training at the University of California, Irvine. He was already a two-time Olympian and had recently become a Christian. “I met Coach Terry Franson,” said Akabusi. “He told me about the program, which sounded great.” Akabusi knew he realistically could not train all the time and needed to balance his time well. “Going to APU felt like a calling for me,” said Akabusi. “APU taught me to be grounded in my faith.” Akabusi’s objective was to combine athletics, education, and his newfound faith. “The classes helped me explore my faith in a more rigorous and intellectual manner,” he said.
Akabusi ultimately wanted to grow in his relationship with God. “I knew my calling was to be an athlete and an ambassador for Christ,” said Akabusi. During his time at APU, Akabusi took advantage of the weekly chapels. “I loved going to chapels on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday,” he said. Part of Akabusi’s growth with Christ involved engaging in intellectual, in-depth conversations with faculty members. “Jerry Pattengale was a great caricature of a professor. He taught history, and I would ask him so many questions,” said Akabusi. “We had an inside joke where we called him ‘pass and fail,’ since it sounded like his name.” The professors at APU contributed to Akabusi’s academic and spiritual journey. “The classroom experience at APU was very different from being in England,” said Akabusi. “Over there, you regurgitate things by memory, and you can’t get out of your seat, whereas at APU, we were able to collaborate with each other.”
Akabusi competed in track and field at the Olympics twice before attending APU, and
once during his time as a Cougar. Although his journey at the Olympics came to an
end in 1992, Akabusi continued to work hard and dedicate his life to Christ in business
and motivating young people to be industrious.
“I lived in a children’s home, wasn’t very good at school, but at some point, I realized
I wasn’t useless, and that I too could be an achiever.” Akabusi grew up with obstacles
in his life, but didn’t let that stop him from achieving success.
After retiring from track, Akabusi wanted to help children in similar situations. “They’re my people,” said Akabusi. “I use my motivational skills to help young people imagine the life they want to live.” Akabusi’s ambition to work with children came from one of his mentors, Sergeant McKenzie. “He told me something I’ll never forget,” said Akabusi. “‘When you drink the water, remember who dug the well.’” That saying transformed Akabusi’s life because it allowed him to realize that whoever influences these children will impact their lives forever.
Akabusi’s pastor often talked about reaching the peaks. “Although mountaintop experiences seem great at the moment, it is rough coming down the other side,” he said. Akabusi suffered several injuries in 1992 after the Olympics. This period allowed him to reflect on what he wanted to do with the name he had made for himself. “I had a name that gave me the opportunity to work on television and compete in game shows,” said Akabusi. “Since I had this profile, I easily went into the TV industry and hosted my own show for seven years.” After hosting his show, Akabusi realized he loved speaking about teamwork and success. This inspired him to dedicate the remainder of his time in the spotlight to helping children.
Although Akabusi loves speaking and helping others, his life wasn’t complete until he became a father. “My greatest calling has simply been to be Dad. I don’t want my children to be clones of me,” said Akabusi. “Hopefully, they’ve taken aspects of me to become the best versions of themselves. Ultimately, my legacy will be my children and my grandchildren and the lives they lead.”
Looking back on his journey, Akabusi hopes current APU students embrace the opportunities before them. He encourages them to enjoy their time on campus, remain open to learning, and allow their experiences to shape who they become. “Don’t be afraid to challenge your ideas,” said Akabusi. “Be brave.” For Akabusi, the lessons he learned at APU extended far beyond the classroom, providing a foundation of faith and purpose that has guided every stage of his life. Whether competing on the Olympic stage, hosting a TV program, mentoring young people, or investing in his family, he continues to live out the calling he first realized at APU and uses his platform to serve others with humility, perseverance, and faith.