Kennedy Noem: Daughter's Career, Education & Family - Latest Updates
Is it possible to navigate the corridors of power while also charting a course for personal growth? Kennedy Noem, daughter of South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, offers a compelling case study, her life interwoven with politics, education, and the enduring bonds of family.
Born in 1997, Kennedy Noem, the middle child of Kristi and Bryon Noem, shares a familiar trajectory with her older sister, Kassidy, in some respects. Both began their collegiate journey at the University of Sioux Falls. Kennedy, like her sibling, embarked on a criminal justice major, a path that initially led her to the basketball court. However, a previous injury cut short her athletic aspirations, redirecting her focus. Later, she pursued a political science degree from South Dakota State University, and completed her MBA from Belmont University.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kennedy Noem Frick |
| Date of Birth | February 23, 1997 |
| Parents | Kristi Noem & Bryon Noem |
| Siblings | Kassidy Noem, Booker Noem |
| Spouse | Tanner Frick (married October 2022) |
| Education |
|
| Career |
|
| Internship | Office of the Minority Leader, U.S. House of Representatives (Kevin McCarthy) |
| Notable Events | Wedding in Sedona, Arizona (October 2022) attended by family and friends |
| Residences | South Dakota, Tennessee (while pursuing MBA) |
| Family | Three grandchildren (as of August 2024) and one more on the way (shared in an Instagram post by Kristi Noem) |
| Reference | Wikipedia - Kristi Noem |
Kennedy's career path has intertwined with her mother's political endeavors. She served as a policy analyst and director of finance within Governor Noem's administration. This role, however, wasn't without its share of scrutiny. Discussions arose surrounding her employment, especially given the prominent position of her mother. Prior to her state government work, Kennedy completed a significant internship in the U.S. House of Representatives, working with then-Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy.
Beyond her professional life, Kennedy's personal milestones have been widely shared. In October 2022, she married Tanner Frick in a lavish ceremony held in L'Auberge de Sedona, Arizona. The wedding was a family affair, attended by her parents, siblings, and other close relatives. The event, which took place while Governor Noem was recovering from back surgery, was captured in numerous photographs, offering glimpses into the Noem family's life.
Her educational pursuits further illustrate her ambitions. She pursued a Master's in Business Administration, announcing her plans to relocate to Tennessee for her studies. This move marked a transition from her role in the governor's office and the beginning of a new chapter.
Kennedy's departure from her position in the governor's office was announced via Facebook, sparking public interest. The post indicated that her last day was a "bittersweet" one, highlighting the mix of emotions that accompany significant life changes. News of her move to Tennessee to pursue her MBA was picked up by various media outlets and shared across platforms.
As the daughter of a prominent political figure, Kennedy Noem's life has been subject to considerable public attention. Her choices, from her education and career to her marriage and family life, have been closely observed. This is further compounded by her mother's high-profile role, as the former South Dakota governor and the current United States Secretary of Homeland Security since 2025.
The family's life in the public eye hasn't been without its challenges. Governor Noem, born Kristi Lynn Arnold, was elected the first female governor of South Dakota in 2018. Her political career started in the South Dakota House of Representatives. Later, she became the first female governor of South Dakota in 2018 with the endorsement of President Donald Trump.
The Noem family, including husband Bryon and children Kassidy and Booker, shares a close-knit bond. Governor Noem herself has shared the joy of becoming a grandmother, with news of additional grandchildren on the way. Bryon Noem, while not always in the spotlight, is a constant presence in his family's life. Bryon and Kristi Noem married in 1992.
Kennedy's story is not solely about her accomplishments. It is also a reflection on the dynamics of family, opportunity, and the choices individuals make to shape their own paths. It highlights the complexities of navigating personal and professional ambitions while living under the constant gaze of public scrutiny.
The family's life and actions have faced scrutiny. This is especially true due to the nature of political life and the scrutiny of state officials. In May 2022, a board responsible for investigating complaints against South Dakota officials was scheduled to consider ethics complaints against Governor Noem. One of the complaints involved her alleged intervention in her daughter's application for a real estate appraiser license. The controversy led to discussions about the appropriate boundaries between public service and personal interests.
Kennedy, as the governor's daughter, has experienced the benefits and challenges that come with such a position. Her salary as a policy analyst in the governor's office, for instance, drew comparisons with the mayor of Sioux Falls's salary. These comparisons are typical in situations where the compensation of government officials is of public interest.
Kennedy's journey continues, offering an intriguing glimpse into the life of a young woman striving to define herself while carrying a legacy.
Her story is a testament to the fact that while certain paths may be pre-defined, the individual always holds the power to determine the narrative.
