When he’s not leading Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish on the football field, quarterback Riley Leonard enjoys spending time with his longtime girlfriend, Molly Walding. Together since 2017, the couple shares a deep bond that has endured over five years and spans multiple states.
Walding, a public relations student at Auburn University, remains a steadfast supporter of Leonard, cheering him on both virtually and in person.
Both Leonard and Walding hail from Fairhope, Ala., a picturesque coastal town along Mobile Bay. Walding has often spoken fondly of their hometown, describing it as one of her “favorite places.”
During her time there, she participated in numerous activities, including the National Honor Society and the Future Business Leaders of America, which helped shape her community-focused values.
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“Growing up, I found community through involvement,” Walding wrote on her personal website. “The values of community, creativity, and gratitude are what truly bring us together.”
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The high school sweethearts began dating in 2017, and their relationship has grown stronger over the years. In 2022, Walding shared a nostalgic TikTok video recounting their time together, ending with a photo of the two as teenagers. In 2024, she celebrated their seven-year anniversary with a heartfelt Instagram post featuring clips of their journey.
Balancing love and distance
Since 2021, Leonard and Walding have attended schools in different states. Walding enrolled at Auburn University in Alabama, while Leonard began playing football for Duke University in North Carolina. In 2023, he transferred to Notre Dame in Indiana. Despite the physical distance, the couple makes a concerted effort to stay connected.
Walding has surprised Leonard with visits, and he has returned the favor during breaks in their busy schedules. Their unwavering commitment to each other has been a cornerstone of their relationship, even as they pursue individual goals.
At Auburn, Walding is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public relations and has already made significant strides in her field. She serves as the recruitment chair for Chi Omega sorority and is the social media manager for a Christian ministry on campus. Additionally, she has worked as a student recruiter for Auburn University and completed a public relations internship with the City of Fairhope.
Her passion for building connections and fostering relationships is evident in her career aspirations. “I have always valued human connection, and my coursework has further deepened my understanding of the power of strategic communication,” she wrote on her website. “I am eager to apply these skills to positively influence others and make a meaningful impact in the world of PR.”