After transferring back from Ole Miss, Litkenhous turns perseverance into purpose, leaving a lasting impact on the Auburn Tigers equestrian program
In the latest installment of “TELL IT LIKE IT IS: On The Plains,” Litkenhous’s story reflects a deeper truth about college athletics: sometimes, growth comes from stepping away before stepping into your purpose.
A native of Auburn, Alabama, Litkenhous initially chose to begin her collegiate career at Ole Miss Rebels, driven by a desire to explore life beyond her hometown. But after a year away, clarity set in.
“Being away made me realize how much I actually loved Auburn,” Litkenhous said.
That realization brought her back to Auburn University — a decision she made on her own terms, even submitting her transfer application before telling her parents.
Once back on campus, her path took an unexpected but defining turn. Between her sophomore and junior years, an opportunity arose to try out for the equestrian team — a lifelong dream suddenly within reach.
She seized it.
“I couldn’t really pass up the opportunity when it was offered in front of me,” she said.
From that moment forward, Litkenhous became part of a program rooted in discipline, resilience, and elite competition. Balancing academics as an animal science major with the demands of Division I athletics tested her limits daily.
“A lot of days it’s like ‘how am I going to make it through the day?’ … but it’s always very rewarding,” she said.
That mindset — built on perseverance and endurance — became her defining trait.
Moments That Define a Career
One of the most memorable chapters of her Auburn career came on February 21, 2026, when the Tigers defeated SMU Mustangs 13–7 in a meet defined as much by weather as performance.
A torrential downpour soaked competitors mid-event, turning the competition into a test of grit and camaraderie.
“We can laugh at it now … those are the memories we’ll look back on 10, 20 years from now,” Litkenhous said.
It’s those shared moments — not just victories — that define her Auburn experience.
Legacy Beyond the Arena
As her collegiate career winds down, Litkenhous is embracing the bittersweet reality of closing one chapter while preparing for the next. She plans to graduate this spring and pursue a career in veterinary pharmaceutical sales, focusing on equine science — a field that aligns with her passion for animal welfare.
Her connection to Auburn, however, isn’t ending anytime soon.
She plans to remain in the area, continue supporting the program, and begin a new chapter of her personal life, including marrying her high school sweetheart next summer.
The Auburn Identity
Litkenhous’ story ultimately reflects a broader truth about Auburn’s culture — one built on connection, loyalty, and personal growth.
“If you love Auburn, Auburn will love you back.”
It’s a philosophy she didn’t fully understand until she left — and one she now embodies.
From a young student seeking independence to a student-athlete leaving behind a legacy of perseverance, Litkenhous’ journey stands as a testament to what it means to find home, purpose, and identity both on and off the field.
And for Auburn, it’s another reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories aren’t just about championships — they’re about coming home.
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-- By Andréa Mochida
© Copyright 2026 JWT Communications. All rights reserved. This article cannot be republished, rebroadcast, rewritten, or distributed in any form without written permission.
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