Jarvis Christian University Names Sarah Graham Head Softball Coach
HAWKINS, Texas — Jarvis Christian University has named Sarah Graham as the University’s new Head Softball Coach, ushering in a new era for the Bulldog softball program built upon faith, leadership, academic excellence, and student-athlete development.
Graham returns to Jarvis Christian University after previously serving as the University’s Assistant Softball Coach. Her appointment reflects the University’s commitment to developing student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom while preparing them for lives of purpose and service.
A seasoned professional with more than a decade of experience in healthcare, education, and athletics, Graham brings a diverse background to her new role. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Biochemical Engineering and Healthcare Administration, as well as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Throughout her career, she has served elderly populations in healthcare settings, supported students with special needs within the school system, and coached softball at multiple competitive levels.
Her leadership experience began early, serving in administrative and supervisory roles that helped shape her philosophy of servant leadership.
“My professional journey has taught me that leadership is ultimately about serving others,” Graham said. “Whether I was working in healthcare, education, or athletics, my goal has always been to help people become the very best version of themselves.”
Originally from West Texas, Graham and her family have called East Texas home for nearly a decade. She and her husband are raising their 14-year-old daughter along with two beloved dogs.
For Graham, returning to Jarvis Christian University represents far more than a career advancement.
“Returning to Jarvis Christian University as the Head Softball Coach is truly the greatest blessing of my career,” she said. “Having previously served here as the Assistant Softball Coach, I understand the values and mission of this University, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this program.”
Although a medical condition brought her collegiate playing career to an early conclusion, Graham said the experience ultimately strengthened her passion for coaching and mentoring young women.
“My purpose is investing in the next generation of student-athletes and sharing the knowledge, passion, and love for the game that softball has given me,” she said.
Graham’s vision for Bulldog Softball reaches well beyond wins and losses. She believes athletics should serve as a vehicle for developing women of character who are prepared to lead in their professions, families, churches, and communities.
“I want every young woman who chooses Jarvis Christian University to leave our program stronger spiritually, mentally, physically, academically, and personally than when she arrived,” Graham said. “Earning a college degree is the priority, but softball is one of life’s greatest classrooms. It teaches resilience, discipline, accountability, teamwork, humility, and perseverance—qualities that prepare our student-athletes for success long after their playing careers are over.”
Her coaching philosophy is grounded in three guiding principles: Faith, Family, and Perseverance.
“These values shape everything we do,” Graham said. “I hope every student-athlete leaves our program understanding that faith provides strength, family creates support, and perseverance makes anything possible. My goal is to help our players become women of character who are prepared to make a positive impact wherever life leads them.”
Dominique Grate, Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Development, said Graham’s appointment reflects the University’s commitment to providing transformational leadership for its student-athletes.
“Coach Graham understands that success is measured by much more than the scoreboard,” Grate said. “Her passion for mentoring young women, commitment to academic achievement, and servant-leadership philosophy align perfectly with Jarvis Christian University’s mission. We are excited to welcome her into this new leadership role and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our student-athletes and the future of Bulldog Softball.”
As preparations continue for the upcoming season, Graham is eager to build a championship culture rooted in excellence, accountability, faith, and perseverance—one that prepares student-athletes not only to compete at a high level but to graduate ready to make a meaningful difference in the world.