Mulerider Mascot Passing of the Torch at Southern Arkansas University

S.A.U. Mulerider Payton Baird of Fouke , who has led the charge at the University since 2014, is set to hand the reins over to the newest Mulerider, Abbie Guin.

According to a press release from Southern Arkansas University, Baird says, "As most people know, S.A.U. has one of the most unique mascots in the country. "I find it very important because (the mascot) gives the public a chance to see what our University stands for: loyalty and support."

Baird will graduate from the university's Nursing Department on May 5 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing.

The new rider at S.A.U., Abbie Guin, is an agriculture major from Minden, Louisiana is looking forward to her new duties. "Payton told me to be myself and enjoy my time as the Mulerider because it will go by so fast," Guin said. "It takes commitment, but I'm very excited and I think I can do it. I'm looking forward to the next three years."

For her part, the outgoing Mulerider, Payton Baird has big plans after graduation. She is set to go to work in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Christus St. Michael Hospital in Texarkana and is looking forward to a September wedding to her fiancee.

Good luck to Payton and Abbie in their new endeavors.