Dawn Walters is a celebrated former University of Kentucky (UK) cheerleader, coach, and entrepreneur whose contributions have left a lasting impact on and the cheer and dance community. As a student-athlete, Walters played a pivotal role in UK’s cheerleading history, helping the Wildcats secure their first national championship in 1985. She went on to become the first African American head coach of UK’s nationally recognized dance team, leading the program to its best finishes in school history in 2021, placing second in both the Hip Hop and Game Day divisions. Walters has also been a driving force in advancing cheer and dance statewide, inspiring countless athletes and fostering the growth of the sport.
In recognition of her accomplishments, Walters was inducted into the Lexington African American Sports Hall of Fame in 2023. She is featured in a documentary by Room 17 Productions on the University of Kentucky Cheerleading Dynasty, with her story preserved in the University of Kentucky Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History. As one of UK’s first African American cheerleaders in the 1980s, she is celebrated for her ability to navigate the challenges of the time.
Now retired, Walters continues to leave a mark as a business owner and entrepreneur. She owns Cheers Inc. and has served as an independent consultant for Rodan + Fields skincare products, showcasing her leadership and versatility. Walters’ trailblazing career and enduring legacy as an athlete, coach, and entrepreneur continue to inspire future generations.
