AMITE COUNTY: Kamryn "Skye" Sharp
Kamryn Skye Sharp will be attending Northwestern State University in the fall. She plans to major in psychology to pursue a career as a sports psychologist. She also plans to start her own travel ball organization helping young females achieve their dream in playing college softball. She will also play softball with the Northwestern State University softball team, fulfilling a childhood dream of playing college softball after high school. Keep up on Instagram: @amitecomisshospitality.
BOONEVILLE: Abby Kensington Pitts
Congressional Gold Medalist Abby Kensington Pitts recently obtained her Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. She will begin her postgraduate residency at Magnolia Regional Health Center later this summer. Upon completion of her residency, Abby plans to continue her education by obtaining board certifications in both psychiatric pharmacy and emergency medicine. In her spare time, she enjoys free diving with sharks and scuba diving. Keep up on Instagram: @booneville_MsHosp.
CLARKE COUNTY: Nya Nobles
Nya Nobles is a sophomore at Mississippi State University, where she is pursuing a degree in biochemistry. While at MSU, she was selected as Freshman Homecoming Maid, is an active member of the Student Association, Day One Leadership Community and a President’s List Scholar. After graduation, Nya plans to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham to obtain a Doctorate of Dental Medicine. Her hobbies include tennis and powerlifting. Keep up on Instagram: @clarkeco.misshospitality.
COVINGTON COUNTY: Peyton Nichole Cocroft
Peyton Cocroft is a 2023 graduate from Sumrall High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, basketball and track/field teams. Peyton graduated with Special Honors and as a Mississippi Scholar. She volunteers with two non-profit dance organizations teaching ballet to youth of all ages. She will be attending The University of Southern Mississippi in the fall, majoring in biochemistry and minoring in dance. She plans to pursue a career in pharmacy. Keep up on Instagram: @petyon.cocroft.
ELLISVILLE: Mary Bradley McCardle
Mary Bradley McCardle will be attending Jones College in the fall as a member of the Lady Bobcat Soccer Team. She plans to major in secondary education and minor in sports administration to pursue a career as a teacher and coach. Mary Bradley enjoys traveling, reading, painting and playing soccer. She hopes to one day be able to pour into the lives of children through the game she loves most: soccer. Keep up on Instagram: @ellisville.misshospitality.
GEORGE COUNTY: Taylor Kiera McDonald
Taylor McDonald is a 2021 graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi and a 2023 graduate of William Carey University, where she obtained her master’s degree in Elementary Education. She plans to begin her Specialist of School Counseling this fall. Taylor currently serves as an 8th Grade English Teacher in George County School District. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, and reading. Keep up on Facebook: George County's Miss Hospitality.
GREENE COUNTY: Dasani Hill
Dasani Hill is currently a junior at The University of Southern Mississippi, where she is obtaining her bachelor's degree in social work and a minor in child advocacy with plans to work in the Mississippi Department of Human Services. Prior to USM, she attended Jones College where she was active in student government, multicultural club, and theater. She has also had the chance to work with Grace Mission rebuilding homes in the Mississippi Delta. Keep up on Instagram: @greene.misshospitality.
GREENWOOD: Julie Day Warren
Julie Day Warren will be attending Northwest Mississippi Community college this fall as part of their elementary education program. She graduated from Pillow Academy with honors and was voted friendliest in her class. She is a member of the National Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Quill and Scroll Honors Society, National English Honors Society and the Thespian Society. She hopes to be able to teach children in Mississippi and grow their love for the state. Keep up on Instagram: @misshospitality_greenwood.
HATTIESBURG: Maddie Grace Lightsey
Maddie Grace Lightsey is a graduate of Oak Grove High School, where she served as Student Body President. A freshman at the University of Mississippi, she is studying to become a Registered Dietitian. She is a Lucky Day Scholar, member of the Honors College, Lambda Sigma and Chancellor’s Leadership Class. Maddie Grace is active in Chi Omega, RebelTHON and The Student Activities Association. In December, Maddie Grace became a St. Jude’s Hero, completing the half-marathon. Keep up on Instagram: @hattiesburgmisshospitality.
JACKSON: Jaidyn Elease-Diane Thomas
Jaidyn Elease-Diane Thomas is a junior at the Jackson State University and is obtaining a degree in computer science with plans for a masters in environmental science and a Ph.D. in data analytics. She is a member of the Louis Stones Mississippi Alliance for Minority Participation, National Honors Society and TRIO STEM programs. Jaidyn has participated in environmental research internationally in Belize and Costa Rica with offers next summer for Saudi Arabia. Her dream is to help improve the environment for future generations. Keep up on Facebook: Visit Jackson MS.
JONES COUNTY: Kate Fletcher
Kate Sinclair Fletcher is an upcoming sophomore at William Carey University, where she is obtaining a degree in elementary education with plans to pursue a master's degree in educational psychology to become a school counselor. She is an active singer in the William Carey Chorale and Worship Choir. She serves in the justice position in the Student Government Association. Kate also leads the children's music department at Connect Church. Keep up on Instagram: @jonescountymisshospitality.
LAMAR COUNTY: Emily Williams
Representing Lamar County, Emily Williams is a sophomore in the pharmacy Early Entry program at the University of Mississippi. She is a member of the Kappa Delta sorority, Ole Miss Student Dance, Pedia Rebs, and Pine Lake college ministry. She served as a team captain for Kappa Delta in the University of Mississippi’s rebelTHON fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Hospital and enjoys being a member of the Big Sis/ Little Sis of Oxford organization. Keep up on Instagram: @lamracomisshospitality.
LAUDERDALE COUNTY: Anabelle Anderson
Anabelle Anderson is a sophomore at Mississippi State University, majoring in communications. She aspires to work in sports broadcasting or the public relations field. At MSU, Anabelle is a member of Phi Mu Sorority and the Committee of 82 connected with the MSU Student Association. She enjoys serving as an Access Mentor and on the Executive Council for Big Sis Starkville. She has participated in two overseas mission trips to India and Uganda. Keep up on Instagram: @abelle.3.
LAUREL: Kassidy McMahon
Kassidy McMahon is a recent early graduate of West Jones High School in Laurel. Starting in the fall, she will be attending Pearl River Community College with an honors scholarship. At Pearl River, Kassidy will be joining the court reporting program as well as obtaining a minor in English to pursue a career in stenography. With her future degree, she hopes to bring awareness to the serious demand for court reporters in our state. Keep up on Instagram: @LaurelMissHospitality.
LAWRENCE COUNTY: Ann-Clark Van
Ann-Clark Van will be attending Copiah-Lincoln Community College in the fall as a member of the Co-Lin Wolfpack Tennis Team. She plans to major in Dental Hygiene. Ann-Clark is a provost scholar and a recipient of the Jimmy Ray Hutchinson Scholarship along with the Julie Williams Scholarship. She graduated from Lawrence County High School with a 3.8 GPA ranking seven out of 103 students. Ann-Clark is a community volunteer at many events and fundraisers, where she empowers children and her peers.
LEAKESVILLE: Taylor Garretson
A broadcast journalism major at Jones College, Taylor is a member of the Bobcat Brigade, Touch of Gold and Gold Rush dance teams, and the Radionian staff. She was awarded 1st place for Best Use of Video by the Mississippi Press Association. Taylor founded Taylor’d To Shine, a nonprofit providing free dresses for pageants, prom, and more. She is a Jones College news anchor who aspires to one day work for a Mississippi news outlet. Keep up on Facebook: Leakesville’s Miss Hospitality.
LINCOLN COUNTY: Amy Rebekah Mabile
Amy Rebekah Mabile attends Southwest Mississippi Community College, where she’s majoring in biology with the intention of becoming a developmental optometrist. Amy is a President’s List Scholar and an officer for Phi Theta Kappa and the student government association. She's on the Bear Tracker Recruitment Team and in collegiate DECA, Tri-Beta, band, and peer tutoring. She serves with The Young Adult Leadership Council for the National Center for Learning Disabilities and is a Camp Wesley Pines Counselor. Keep up on Facebook: Lincoln County Miss Hospitality.
MADISON COUNTY: Gracie Bassett
Gracie Bassett is a junior in the Honors College at Mississippi College, where she is double majoring in biology and chemistry medical sciences. She plans to attend medical school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center with hopes of becoming a radiologist. Gracie has donated her hair 9 times to cancer patients, is a classically trained pianist, and an avid volunteer having given over 400 hours of service to her community. Keep up on Instagram: @madisoncounty.misshospitality.
MAGEE: Hattie Grace Ashmore
Hattie Grace Ashmore is a High Honors graduate of Copiah-Lincoln Community College. She was inducted into Co-Lin’s Hall of Fame, Most Beautiful, Miss Co-Lin, and Homecoming Maid. While at CoLin, Hattie Grace was President of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Secretary of Student Government Association. She will attend William Carey University in the fall to obtain a degree in mass communication with a concentration in public relations and a minor in management marketing. Keep up on Instagram: @mageemisshospitality.
MARION COUNTY: Hallie Ryan Haddox
A University of Southern Mississippi freshman, Hallie Haddox has been selected to be a member of the Honors College and as a Lucky Day Scholar. She served as a student leader throughout high school as Student Body Reporter, Homecoming Queen, and President of the Junior Auxiliary Crown Club. She will continue searching for opportunities for service leadership at USM. Hallie plans to major in nursing with the ultimate goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. Keep up on Facebook: Marion County Miss Hospitality.
MENDENHALL: Jaymee Smith
Jaymee Shea Smith is a sophomore at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, where she is obtaining a degree in Medical Radiological Technology with plans to further her education by specializing in sonography. Jaymee is ranked as Airman First Class in the United States Air Force, where she is assigned to the Mission Support Unit at the 172nd Airlift Wing. Jaymee plans to continue her climb in rank with hopes of ending her career as a Master Sergeant. Keep up on Facebook: Mendenhall Miss Hospitality.
MERIDIAN: Jalyssiah Ott
Jalyssiah Ott will be a junior at Mississippi State University, where she is majoring in clinical psychology and has plans to pursue her PhD. At MSU, she serves as a Roadrunner and Orientation Leader. She is a member of Chi Omega Sorority, where she will serve as a mentor for the upcoming 2023 Freshman Pledge Class. Jalyssiah enjoys volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club and the Mississippi Children’s Museum in her hometown of Meridian. Keep up on Instagram: @meridian.misshospitality.
NATCHEZ: Damira A. Mcgruder
Damira Alycee McGruder attends The University of Southern Mississippi and is entering her senior year. She majors in biological sciences with a biomedical concentration on a pre-medical track in order to pursue a career as an obstetrician/gynecologist. She enjoys reading, singing, traveling, and spending time with the people she loves. She is also a professional orator and public speaker having competed in numerous oratorical contests. Damira loves to help others and promotes peace. Keep up on Instagram: @misshospitalitynatchez.
NESHOBA COUNTY: Kara Daly
Kara Daly is pursuing a degree in speech pathology and audiology from The University of Southern Mississippi and intends to complete a Master of Science in speech pathology. She is a student ambassador, a Lucky Day scholar and has been a mentor for the Lucky Day program this past year. Kara is a member of the Delta Pi chapter of Delta Gamma and serves as Vice President Panhellenic. She will also serve as a recruitment counselor this fall. Keep up on Instagram: @neshobacounty.misshospitality.
NEW ALBANY: Kenidi Raquel Sanders
Kenidi Sanders is a 2023 Magna Cum Laude graduate of Jackson State University with a degree in Chemistry. She is a Student Hall of Fame inductee, a member of NSCS, a W.E.B. DuBois-Harvey Honors College graduate, and president of the Delta Pi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She plans to attend medical school to fulfill her career aspiration to become a pediatrician and provide quality medical care in her hometown of New Albany.
PANOLA COUNTY: McKenzie Perkins
McKenzie Perkins attends the University of Mississippi, where she is a member of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College and has earned a place on the Chancellor’s Honor Roll. She is majoring in biological science with a minor in chemistry to pursue a career as a dentist. McKenzie is also a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, Women in Dentistry, and the Grisham-McLean Catalyzing Entrepreneurship and Economic Development Scholar Program where she interns with her hometown community. Keep up on Facebook: Panola County Miss Hospitality.
PEARL RIVER: Laken Smith
Laken Smith is currently attending Pearl River Community College in Pearl River County. She plans to attend William Carey University, and further her degree in elementary education to pursue a career in teaching children. She is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She loves spending time with children, which is why she is employed at a Pre-K facility and umpires for little league softball. Keep up on Facebook: Laken Smith.
PERRY COUNTY: Kearsten Mullins
Kearsten Elizabeth Mullins has been chosen to represent Perry County Mississippi. She will be attending Jones College in the fall to get her associates in business. After graduating Jones, she plans to attend The University of Southern Mississippi to major in accounting. She enjoys shopping, riding four wheelers, and spending time with friends and family. Keep up on Instagram: @perry.countymisshospitality.
PETAL: Loren Wade
Loren Wade is a junior at Mississippi College, where she is a Trustee scholar. She is obtaining a degree in biology with plans to attend physician assistant school. Loren enjoys being in Kissimee Social Tribe and representing the Mathematics and Science Department through the Student Government Association. In 2021, she was Petal’s Distinguished Young Woman and is passionate about raising funds for the Children’s Hospital of Mississippi and being a healthcare ambassador. Keep up on Instagram: @petalsmisshospitality.
PIKE COUNTY: Jericala'keisha Rodnesa Brown
Jerica is a recent graduate of Southwest Mississippi Community College, where she was Redline co-captain and featured Stage Band and choir vocalist. She served as a Camp Sunshine special needs volunteer and is a Dance Around America teacher. She will attend Delta State University majoring in social work. She hopes to one day obtain her doctorate and work in a mental health facility.
PONTOTOC COUNTY: Gabby Bell
An honors graduate from Pontotoc High School, Gabby was active in colorguard, Student Council and the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee. With plans to pursue a career in Forensic Psychology, she dreams of making a positive impact on the criminal justice system. As Pontotoc County’s Miss Hospitality, she has shown deep commitment to her community by launching the Pontotoc County Hidden Gems campaign, showcasing local businesses and unsung heroes who are making a positive difference. Keep up on Instagram: @pontotoccomisshospitality.
RICHTON: Callie Marie Manning
Callie Manning is a recent graduate of Richton High School. She will attend Jones College in the fall to pursue a degree in nursing and become an ER nurse. Callie was previously a member of the National Sr. Beta Club, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the Richton Varsity Cheer Squad. She received the English award for her class. Her hobbies include playing piano and drums, reading, and writing. Keep up on Instagram: @richton.misshospitality.
SCOTT COUNTY: Kayleigh Brooke Thornton
Kayleigh Brooke Thornton will be attending Pearl River Community College in the fall. She will be majoring in applied science with the plan to become a surgical technician. Kayleigh is transferring from Jones College, where she was on the Dean's List. Her goal is to be able to use her degree to help people during their scariest moments. Kayleigh enjoys cooking, hiking, volunteering in her community, and restoring furniture. Keep up on Facebook: Scott County Miss Hospitality.
SMITH COUNTY: Faith Sullivan
Faith Sullivan is a 2022 Highest Honors Graduate of Mize Attendance Center. She attends Jones College, where she is a member of the Student Government Association and Livestock Show Team. Faith is a member of Magee Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, a Mize Volunteer Firefighter, and served as Mississippi’s 2020 Teen Watermelon Queen. Faith is majoring in Ag-Business and Ag-Marketing with plans to advocate for women in agriculture and raise show cattle in the future. Keep up on Instagram: @smithcountymisshospitality.
STARKVILLE: Gracee Catherine Burkley
Gracee Catherine Burkley is a junior at Mississippi State University, where she is obtaining a degree in communication with a concentration in public relations. She plans to continue her education at MSU, getting a master’s degree in communication. Gracee is a member of the Phi Mu sorority, Public Relations Student Society of America, as well as the Foundation Ambassador organization, where she served on the executive committee as the events coordinator. Keep up on Instagram: @Starkville_MissHospitality.
STONE COUNTY: Sidney Ashton Brown
Sidney Brown is a first year osteopathic medical student at William Carey University. A graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi, Brown majored in microbiology, with chemistry and Spanish minors, with the goal of one-day exploring genetics and genomics. Sidney enjoys creating content for her YouTube channel featuring places to visit across Mississippi, a project started in middle school. Brown loves to spend time with friends and family. Keep up on Instagram: @misshospitalitystonecounty.
SUMRALL: Jana Clinton
Jana LeAnne Clinton is a sophomore at William Carey University. During her freshman year, she was a member of the William Carey Crusader cheer team and the Pi Omega Christian Sorority. Jana is pursuing a degree in Vocal Music Education. She performs with the prestigious Carey Chorale, Winter’s School of Music Worship Choir, and Women’s Choir. Upon obtaining her degree, Jana plans to fulfill her dreams by instilling a passion for music in elementary education. Keep up on Facebook: Sumrall Miss Hospitality.
TATE COUNTY: Olivia Kate Prince
Olivia Prince is an incoming sophomore at Northwest Mississippi Community College. She is a recipient of the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant as well as the NWCC Presidential Scholarship. Olivia plans to obtain a degree in Psychology, with hopes of one day becoming a pediatric mental health counselor. Olivia is a singer for her church’s worship band and continues to pursue local performance opportunities with her long-time passion for music and singing.
TUPELO: Liza Lewis
Liza Lewis is a recent graduate of Mooreville High School. She is attending Mississippi State University in the fall, majoring in biochemistry. While at MSU, she plans to be involved in various activities and clubs. When her degree is complete, she hopes to attend a physician assistant program to pursue her dream of being a pediatric physician assistant.
WALTHALL COUNTY: Emily Rushing
Emily Rushing will be attending Copiah-Lincoln Community College, where she will major in graphic design and dance on the Colettes dance team. She was a member of the MAIS Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and was designated as a Mississippi Scholar. Emily enjoys expressing her creativity through singing, dancing, theater, and visual arts. She plans to pursue a career as a graphic designer after obtaining her bachelor’s from The University of Southern Mississippi.
WAYNE COUNTY: Abney Grace Pittman
Abney Grace Pittman is a sophomore at the University of Mississippi, where she is obtaining a degree in communication sciences and disorders and a minor in gerontology and marketing. She plans to attend graduate school to obtain her masters and then doctorate of Speech/Language Pathology. She is a member of Kappa Delta sorority and was on the Dean's list. Prior to Ole Miss, Abney Grace attended Jones College for two semesters, where she was a part of the Bobcat Brigade recruiting team and inducted into Phi Theta Kappa. At Jones College, she was on the President's list both semesters. Keep up on Instagram: @misshospwayneco.