WINFIELD, Kan. — When Saherena Williams steps into the spotlight, she doesn't just dance, she tells a story. Every movement, every step, every turn reflects her faith, her passion, and her Builder pride.

For Williams, a senior at Southwestern College, dance has always been more than performance. It's a form of worship and self-expression that began long before she joined the Moundbuilder Dance Team.

"I grew up in the church, where I began praise dancing," she said. "My passion for dance grew from wanting to worship God through movement and emotion."

Her journey to Southwestern was, in her words, destiny. "I always say I didn't choose Southwestern, Southwestern chose me," Williams said. "The moment I crossed over the Jinx sign, I knew I was home."

Originally recruited on a softball scholarship, Williams soon found her true calling in dance. What began as a new opportunity evolved into a life-changing experience that shaped her both personally and creatively. "It's pushed me to grow beyond my comfort zone," she said. "Dance has helped me discover who I am."

Among the many who have guided her, Williams credits mentors such as Mrs. Adrienne, Dr. Sheppard, the O'Quinns and Ketura Earl, each playing a meaningful role in her growth as both a performance and a leader. Faith continues to guide her, both on and off the stage. Before every performance, Williams takes a quiet moment to pray, grounding herself in gratitude and purpose. "It centers me and reminds me why I dance," she said.

Her passion and perseverance have not gone unnoticed by her coaches. Nate Lee, one of Southwestern's spirit squad coaches, praised Williams' leadership and commitment to excellence.

"Saherena has been an exemplary captain to the dance team," Lee said. "Between managing several activities, she's always ready and willing to help her teammates, whether that means going over dances, getting them involved across campus, or providing support in their academics. Her involvement on campus has certainly made an impact on Southwestern's programming."

Coach Tricia Cook echoed that sentiment. "Saherena is not only a great performer but is always willing to do whatever is needed for her team," Cook said. "Her involvement on campus is inspiring, and she is exactly the type of leader our spirit squad needs."

Head coach Alissa Sheppard said Williams represents the very best of Southwestern's athletic and academic community. "Saherena is an exceptional athlete both on and off the field," Sheppard said. "She leads with passion, integrity, and dedication, inspiring those around her through her actions and attitude. A true definition of a Builder, she continuously uplifts her team, fosters growth, and sets the standard for excellence in everything she does."

Williams' energy and positivity have become trademarks of her time at Southwestern. Whether she's leading her team through choreography, performing at campus events, or singing with the college choir, she radiates a contagious spirit of joy and unity.

"Being a Moundbuilder means resilience, unity and growth," she said. "It's about trying new things and realizing that success is never about 'me', it's about 'we.'"

That sense of community and pride reached new heights on Oct. 25, when Williams was crowned Southwestern's 2025 Homecoming Queen. For her, the honor went far beyond a title.

"It was magical, like living out a Disney moment," she said. "To hold that title, especially as an African American woman, felt deeply meaningful. It was more than a crown; it was a symbol of pride, representation, and gratitude."

Outside of dance, Williams stays active across campus. She performs with the Southwestern College Choir and studies communications, all while maintaining her goal of becoming a Doctor of Audiology. "I hope to run my own practice someday," she said. "But I also have an interest in media and news, so I'm keeping an open mind."

Balancing rehearsals, classes, and performances can be demanding, but Williams credits her faith, and a well-organized calendar, for keeping her grounded. "Balance can be challenging," she said. "Communication and prayer keep me focused."

Through all the rehearsals, performances, and leadership roles, one thing remains constant: Williams' determination to inspire others.

"I want students to see that trying new things isn't something to fear," she said. "College is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, step out of your comfort zone and explore your passions."

Looking ahead, Williams hopes to continue spreading that same Builder spirit long after graduation. "In five to ten years, I see myself running my own practice and continuing to live out the Builder spirit through perseverance and courage," she said. "No matter where life takes me, I'll keep inspiring others to rise, move, and believe."