News

Graham, a second team Mount Vernon News' area pitcher, made her intent official Friday morning amongst family, coaches, and media in a public announcement at the Highland High School library.  Graham was also named first team Mansfield News Journal utility player as a junior.

"When it came down to choosing a college, I knew that I wanted to choose a small college that cared for me as a person and not as a number," said Graham.  "After lots of college over-night visits and talking to many coaches, Mount Vernon Nazarene kept rising to the top of my list.  The campus is close to home, which is also important to me.  I look forward to being close to home yet far enough away to grow into a responsible adult."

Graham is also relieved to know she can return to the diamond for her senior campaign without having to be conflicted by scouts and recruitment letters on a weekly basis.

"It takes a lot of pressure off of my shoulders," Graham said.  "Now I can relax more and just focus on my senior season."

Academically, Graham noted she is interested in a future career in either physical therapy or computer science.  Regardless of the path she eventually pursues at college, Lady Cougar head softball coach Jeana Howald is confident Graham will excel at MVNU both on and off the softball field.

"She's not just a solid athlete, she is also a great kid," said Howald.  "She fits the type of student-athlete that we want to have as not only a part of our team, but also as a part of our campus community.  I think she will be very successful in the future at MVNU."