Only an hour and 45 minutes separates the campus of Mississippi State University from Jasper, Alabama, the home of MSU cheerleader Sarah-Grace Lemmons. And though she’s only been on campus for a year, Sarah-Grace has already become accustomed to the drumbeat of Starkville and life at an SEC school.
“Starkville is a lot like Jasper, so it turned out to be the perfect fit for me,” she says.
A 2023 Sumiton Christian School graduate, Sarah-Grace served as the cheer team captain for head coach Dixie Owens and was named a Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete. She had a 4.06 GPA and was a member of the National Honor Society and the ACT 30+ club.
Now at MSU, Sarah-Grace says her favorite thing about the cheer team is the bond everyone shares—” I love being able to cheer for such an amazing program with some of my closest friends!” she says.
The sophomore carries a 3.78 GPA in the classroom at MSU and is majoring in psychology with a pre-med concentration and a minor in Spanish. After she graduates in May 2027, Sarah-Grace plans to further her education in either nursing or sonography school.
“My goal is to enter a field where I can make a meaningful impact on people’s lives,” she says.
Recently, Sarah-Grace fielded a few questions from our staff at Talegate. Let’s get to know her a little better:
TG: Out of all the colleges you could have attended, why did you choose Mississippi State?
SGL: I chose Mississippi State for its friendly community and small-town vibe. I loved everything about the campus and what it represents!
TG: What’s been your favorite moment so far as an MSU cheerleader?
SGL: I have had several amazing memories as an MSU cheerleader, but two of my favorite moments so far have been getting to cheer at the Men’s SEC Basketball Tournament in Nashville last spring and competing at NCA College Nationals in Daytona in April. It was such a cool experience with so many unforgettable moments!
TG: How long have you been cheering and what made you decide to get into it?
SGL: I’ve been cheering for as long as I can remember. I began with dance and gymnastics classes before transitioning into cheer. I’ve been a competitive cheerleader since I was about four years old, and I’m still competing today! I truly enjoy the competitive atmosphere of cheer and appreciate having a platform to show off all the hard work I’ve put in.
TG: What are your favorite places to go and things to do in Starkville?
SGL: Some of my favorite things to do include trying some of the delicious restaurants in the District, and on the beautiful days, it is always nice to go on a walk downtown or go for a quick run around campus. I love the vibrant atmosphere of the area, and these moments allow me to unwind and enjoy my time here!
TG: What do you miss most about home?
SGL: One thing I truly miss is seeing my friends and family. While I appreciate the amazing friendships I’ve made at school, I often reflect on the people and places back home that hold so many precious memories. Although I love Starkville, my heart will always belong to Jasper! TG
Photos courtesy Sarah-Grace Lemmons
