As a child growing up in Oklahoma, Carrie Underwood watched the Grand Ole Opry on television at her grandparents’ house. In 2005, Carrie made her Opry debut two weeks after winning American Idol.

Just three years into her country music career, childhood hero Randy Travis surprised Carrie with an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry during a performance on March 15, 2008. Less than two months later on May 10, 2008—nine years ago today—fellow Okie Garth Brooks inducted Carrie into the esteemed organization.

“I think being a member of the Grand Ole Opry is just one of the most special things for anybody who has ever wanted to be a country music singer,” said Carrie to Nash Country Daily in 2015. “It’s just such a cool thing. There’s no other genre of music that has something like it—you can be a member of this club. It’s just such a special, elite family. It’s definitely one of my proudest moments and highest honors.”

In March 2017, Carrie celebrated her 100th appearance on the Opry stage.

“I grew up dreaming of one day performing here and maybe even becoming a member,” said Carrie. “That dream comes true over and over each time I take the Opry stage. Here’s to the next 100.”

Happy anniversary, Carrie.