Russellville High School senior Devin Jones was the center of attention last week at a celebration marking her selection as a cheerleader for Alabama A&M University.

Jones tried out in April for a position at A&M after cheering her junior and senior years at RHS. She said motivation from her coaches and teammates drove her to continue cheer in college – especially from Coach Stephanie Mayfield.

“She helped me gain a lot of awards this past summer,” said Jones, who has been UCA All American and received invitations to cheer in Florida, London and for UCA staff.

“Devin is a true athlete,” said Mayfield, pointing out her participation in basketball and volleyball in addition to cheerleading. “She’s competitive to a fault.”

Jones will follow in her older sisters’ footsteps by attending AAMU and said she is excited to continue to pour hard work, dedication and passion into cheering.

It was a proud moment for Mayfield.

“It really sets the bar,” Mayfield said. “She’s so talented … She’s one of the best dancers I’ve ever seen.”

Jones plans to major in biology and minor in sports management.