Three Southern Miss Sisters Turn Generations of Golden Eagle Pride into a Children’s Book for the Next Generation
Long before author Jordan Cutchall became an alumna, Southern Miss was already part of her story. Generations of her family have left their mark on the university, creating a tradition she and her sisters now continue.
Their grandmother, Freddie Taylor, was one of the original Dixie Darlings and still performs during homecoming festivities. Their grandfather, Jerry Taylor, played football for the Golden Eagles before being inducted into the University of Southern Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.
Today, Cutchall and her sisters, author Lakelyn Taylor and illustrator Gracyn Taylor, are writing the next chapter with “My Southern Miss,” a children’s book celebrating the campus, traditions, and memories that have shaped generations of Golden Eagles.
The idea came unexpectedly while Cutchall searched for a baby shower gift for two close friends who also graduated from Southern Miss.
“I looked high and low and couldn’t find one,” she said of a Southern Miss-themed children’s book. “I thought, ‘Well, even if there is one out there, I still want to do this.’”
The sisters spent two years bringing the project to life.
“I’m so proud to be a Golden Eagle and to have been able to contribute to this book. I hope it does justice to all Golden Eagles,” Lakelyn Taylor said. “I hope each person can find a little of themselves represented in it. It’s a privilege to celebrate the University of Southern Mississippi in this way, and I can’t wait for others to experience it, too.”
Together, the sisters combined their talents to introduce young readers to familiar campus landmarks, including The Rock, Shoemaker Square Fountain, and Danforth Chapel.
Cutchall and Lakelyn Taylor helped shape the book’s content by weaving their own Southern Miss memories and experiences into its pages. At the same time, Gracyn Taylor brought all of the sisters’ memories to life through vibrant illustrations.
“We all had different journeys at Southern,” Cutchall said. “We all knew different things about it, so it was really great to bring it all together.”
Cutchall said she hopes the book serves as a keepsake for alumni, families, and Golden Eagle fans eager to share their Southern Miss pride with the next generation.
For Gracyn Taylor, the project became something even more personal.
“This book is my love letter to the place that became so much more than a campus,” she said. “The priceless friendships and memories we’ve built at Southern Miss echo in these pages and deserve their time in the spotlight. So, sit down, share stories, dream big, and, as always, Southern Miss to the Top!”
Visit the “My Southern Miss” Facebook page for more information.
