Life is full of its hardships. Those who evolve through hardship are strong because of it. For without challenges, you cannot overcome and grow. Regina Chenault, a mother and unwavering spirit knows all about dealing with adversity and even more about what it means to laugh in the face of it.
Regina Chenault originally wanted to attend Southern University as a member of the marching band playing the clarinet. However, because of the time period being the 1980s, there were no women playing instruments in the marching band. Other opportunities arose for Mrs.Chenault as she stated “In order to be a part of the excitement, I danced.”
She began her journey with the Southern University Dancing Dolls during the spring of 1986. The journey was short-lived as the following spring, Mrs. Chenault returned home and suffered a car accident ending her Dancing Doll career and stunting her college experience. She would not end up returning to Southern until two years later. Financial circumstances and the responsibilities of her life at that time prevented her from being able to return as a Dancing Doll, as she had to work several jobs just to stay in school.
Mrs. Chenault’s time as a doll may have been short-lived but nothing short of full circle. As her daughter, Sophia Chenault would be standing in the same shoes as her mother almost 40 years later as a current dancing doll on a team Mrs. Chenault affirms is “always elevating.” Sophia Chenault, daughter of Regina Chenault is the very first legacy doll Southern University has ever had.
Though considered a legacy, it is clear that the title has nothing to do with her individual abilities as a dancer. Her spot was as earned as any spot on the team and it is something she does not take lightly. Even though she has already made her mark with the dancing dolls and intends to finish strong in the time she has, she also plans to leave a legacy of her own.
Regina Chenault states “she couldn’t be more proud.” Though no one would have thought, both mother and daughter were facing health issues during tryouts and around the homecoming game. Despite that, as Sophia adopted her mothers hardworking fighter nature, they persevered to make it a beautiful moment for all who watched while producing history in the making. Both mother and daughter encapsulate the essence of tenacity as they continue to touch hearts and inspire all who come across their story.
