History has its eyes on one particular individual as she graduates this May: Megan Lankford.

Lankford, a public and applied history major, also a student athlete involved with cross country and track, plans to keep on running through the hoops of education as she steps off of the Waynesburg University campus.

“I plan to find a job in a museum that will help me utilize what I have learned in college and eventually get a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in history in the upcoming years,” Lankford said about furthering her knowledge.

Lankford hopes to get her doctorate degree one day, akin to one of her greatest mentors: Dr. Karen Fisher Younger, associate professor of history and chairperson of the humanities department.

“I would like to thank Dr. Younger for mentoring me throughout my time at Waynesburg, and for always providing me with great advice during my college journey, and for always helping me to succeed in my education,” Lankford said.

Younger acknowledges that Lankford has put extensive time into her courses and athletics and strives for “nothing short of perfection.” She also described Lankford as a “tremendously hard worker” and pointed to her growth as a history major.

Lankford also credits her sister, Kari, along with her parents, for always pushing her to do her best. They believed in her when nobody else would.

Chris Hardie, coach of men’s and women’s cross country and track and Assistant Director of Athletics, also played a crucial part in Lankford’s experience.

“I would like to thank [Hardie] for being there for me during the difficult journeys throughout my time here, and for not only shaping me as a better runner but a better person too,” Lankford said.

As Lankford hangs up the track spikes, she will always remember winning the President’s Athletic Conference cross country championships every year. Not only did the taste of victory sweeten the experience, but competing with her team allowed her to grow in her faith and as a person.

“It’s been a joy to have taught Megan and watch her growth as a student,” Younger said. “She’ll be missed.”

This article along with many others are included in the 2021 Commencement Issue of The Yellow Jacket. The full print layout version can be viewed here.