From Greenville, SC, Sandi attended Greenville High School prior to the University of Arkansas, where she earned a degree in Broadcast Journalism. While competing for the Razorbacks, Sandi was consistently atop the podium, taking home an NCAA Indoor National Championship and four All-American honors. Additionally, she set the University of Arkansas records for both the Indoor and Outdoor Pole Vault. Sandi's success has continued as a pro. In her first year out of Arkansas, she kicked off the 2016 indoor season by winning her first U.S. national title and taking silver at the 2016 Indoor World Championships. She followed that up with a phenomenal outdoor season, becoming an Olympic Silver Medalist in the Rio Games, and three weeks later becoming only the second female vaulter outdoors to clear 5 meters. Yes. The future is bright!
Off the track, Sandi is just as talented. She grew up playing violin and taught herself to play the acoustic guitar, with which she writes and sings her own music. Holding a deep passion for animals, you can just ask any one of her three pet snakes. On her life away from the spotlight, Sandi says it best:
"I am many things. I am a sister and a daughter, but also a proud aunt of my niece and nephew Jamison Grace and Sam. Those little peanuts brings joy to my heart. All kids do. Off the track, I seek to inspire children to participate in athletics, and encourage them to chase their dreams. I have many passions aside from track - from animals (including my Italian Greyhound, three pet snakes, and bird), to music, writing, and broadcast journalism."
