Southern Arkansas University is excited to announce that Caroline Rankin will serve as the 2025–26 Mulerider, one of the most cherished and recognizable traditions at the University. As the official student ambassador and rider of Molly Ann, SAU’s beloved mule, Rankin will represent the University at athletic events, community gatherings, and campus activities throughout the year ahead. Rankin takes over the reins of this prestigious position from the former Mulerider, Cagen Knoles, of Paris, AR.
“Becoming the Mulerider has always been a goal of mine, and I am honored to represent the University that has meant so much to me and my family,” said Rankin. “I’m especially excited to showcase Molly Ann in new and engaging ways that connect with our campus, community, and alumni.”
Rankin is actively engaged across campus life at SAU. Since the fall of 2023, she has been a member of Sigma Alpha sorority, where she began serving as the fellowship pillar this past spring. She has also participated as a BAM leader and contributed her leadership skills as a Leadership Academy leader. Through these roles, Rankin has demonstrated her commitment to SAU’s values of service, leadership, and community, qualities that will guide her as she represents the University as the Mulerider.
Becoming the Mulerider has always been a goal of mine, and I am honored to represent the University that has meant so much to me and my family.
Rankin’s love for SAU runs deep within her family. She is the granddaughter of Dr. David F. Rankin, SAU president emeritus, and his wife, Toni. Dr. Rankin, who served as the University’s president from 2002 to 2015, emphasized the historic significance of his granddaughter’s selection. “The Mulerider is such an important link between the present and the past of Southern Arkansas University,” said Dr. Rankin. “Toni and I are excited that our granddaughter Caroline will join a long line of outstanding students who have represented SAU as both the Mulerider and as an ambassador for the University. For her, it is a dream come true!”
The Mulerider tradition itself dates back to the early 1900s when SAU was known as the Third District Agricultural School. In those days, students and faculty often relied on mules to navigate the terrain of southwest Arkansas. After a group of students rode their mules to a football game in 1912, the players dubbed themselves the Muleriders. The name stuck, and over time, it became both the official mascot of SAU athletics and a cherished symbol of the University’s resilience, heritage, and spirit. Today, SAU is the only university in the United States with a Mulerider mascot.
“We are excited to have Caroline serve as the Mulerider,” said Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president. “Her energy, campus involvement, and love for SAU traditions will serve her well in representing the University in this special role.”
With her selection, Rankin joins the rich history of students who have proudly taken the reins as the Mulerider. Her story represents not only a personal dream fulfilled but also the continuation of a family’s lasting love for SAU and its traditions. Rankin shared, “I look forward to sharing my love for SAU, Molly Ann, and our traditions throughout the year ahead.”
About SAU:
SAU, located in Magnolia, Arkansas, provides students with a complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to fit the needs of career and professional trends of today. As part of this commitment, SAU proudly offers the Next Step Guarantee program, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources, career guidance, and support to transition successfully from college to their chosen careers or graduate studies. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
