In spring of 1961, a shy, naive 18 year old from the small town of Jackson, Alabama was driven to Hattiesburg, Mississippi by her mother. She was anxious because she was going to try out for the World-Famous Dixie Darlings at Mississippi Southern College.

Things started out on the wrong foot [no pun intended] because when she arrived at the Fine Arts Building, no one was there to audition the little country girl. The secretary made some phone calls and soon thereafter, two Dixie Darlings captains arrived. Afraid but determined, the little girl was put through the steps and eventually performed the audition dance.

After a short [long] wait, the captains told the girl that she was accepted. What joy and excitement to be accepted into a group that she had so long admired! That was me - shy Susan - about to embark on a long, wonderful adventure.

Of interest to other DD's, the two captains that I tried out for were Dee Kelly and Lorelei Cadwell. I had attended band camp at MSC and Dee was one of my instructors - but she didn't remember me. Later, Dee and I also became sorority sisters. Funny how things are connected, sometimes.

I returned to Jackson to find my hometown very excited for me...I became quite the local celebrity. I quickly learned that hard work brings its own rewards, as I was chosen as a Dixie Darlings Captain, thanks to my DD director, Ms. Jellinick, who provided unwavering support and guidance to me along the way.

I've always treasured my time as a Dixie Darling and my years at Southern Miss and wanted to give something back to celebrate, honor and perpetuate the tradition of all that means so much to me. This web site is my gift to the Dixie Darlings Alumnae Association. I hope that it will support continued communication throughout the entire Dixie Darlings organization, and act as a medium through which the World-Famous Dixie Darlings may continue to revel in the recognition that they deserve.

Love to my Dixie Darlings sisters. Love in AOT to my KD sisters. And GO SOUTHERN!

Susan Bolen Long
February 26, 2007