2025 Contestants

AMITE COUNTY: Brentley Ann Johnston

Brentley Ann Johnston is a 2025 graduate of Parklane Academy where she ranked fourth in her class. She was active in National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Fellowship of Christian Students, Diamond Girls, and captained the Lady Pioneers Soccer team. She now volunteers in a leadership role with open Doors Theatre and is active at Thompson Baptist Church. This fall, she will attend Mississippi College to study Psychology with a minor in Christian Studies.

ATTALA COUNTY: Taylor Griffin

Taylor Griffin is a sophomore at University of Mississippi majoring in Biological Sciences. She is a member of the Phi Mu sorority, Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors college, and Luckyday Scholars program. At Ole Miss, she serves on the First Year Encounters, Intramural Volleyball, and Caring Companions organizations, and she is the assistant Vice President of Committees and Operations for her sorority chapter. Taylor enjoys baking, traveling, choreographed cycling, and spending time with family and friends.

BOONEVILLE: Abby Walton

Abby Walton, a dedicated scholar and compassionate leader, made the President’s List at Northeast Mississippi Community College and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. A former high school class historian and homecoming maid, Abby founded Prentiss County Play It Forward, a sports equipment drive supporting underserved youth in Booneville. She aspires to earn a master’s degree in social work to empower children and help break the cycle of poverty through advocacy, opportunity, and heart.

BROOKHAVEN: Maggie Sheppard

Maggie Sheppard is a sophomore at Mississippi College, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Secondary Education with a concentration in English. She plans to pursue a career as a high school English teacher. At Mississippi College, Maggie is a member of the Kissimee Social Tribe, a Scouts Student Recruiter, and serves on the fundraising committee for Dance Marathon that raises money for Children’s of Mississippi, Mississippi’s only children’s hospital.

CHOCTAW COUNTY: Aniyah Nash

Aniyah Nash currently attends Northeast Community College, where she is on the President’s List and a Phi Theta Kappa member. This fall, she’ll attend the Mississippi University for Women to study speech pathology. Aniyah volunteers with Gentiva Hospice, providing support to patients and families. She’s passionate about promoting physical and mental well-being and encourages self-care from a young age. Aniyah also mentors young athletes as a volunteer coach for the Choctaw County Junior High Cheer Squad.

CLARKE COUNTY: Foley Dogget

After graduating from Meridan Community College’s Associate Degree Nursing Program as a registered nurse, Foley Doggett’s goal is to work at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital caring for children. While at MCC, she is a Dean’s List Scholar. She is an avid photographer and operates her own photography business capturing magical moments behind the lens. Foley enjoys volunteering and spending time outdoors exploring walking trails.

COVINGTON COUNTY: Lillian Norris

Lillian Norris is an upcoming sophomore at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she is majoring in biological sciences with plans to become a pediatric dentist. She intends to one day own her own practice. During her high school years Lillian was brass captain and drum major. Lillian is also the founder of Sponsor A Smile, an organization she created to help children and their families with the financial burden of dental care.

ELLISVILLE: Allie Robinson

Incoming Jones College Freshman, Allie Robinson is a member of the Touch of Gold Dance Team, pursuing a degree in elementary education. At South Jones High School, Allie was the Bravettes Dance team captain, a member of the show choir, choreographer for the Drama department, member of the yearbook staff, president of Student Council, and president of the Juniorettes service organization. Allie enjoys volunteering at church in the children’s department and spending time with friends.

FORREST COUNTY: Keliyah Moncree-Williams

Keliyah Moncree-Williams is a recent graduate from North Forrest High School. She plans on pursuing a degree in forensic science/photography. She holds a certification in graphic design. Keliyah was Top 15 in her class and served as a member of the National Technical Honor Society and SkillsUSA. In high school, Keliyah played soccer and was a member of color guard and diamond girls. She completed multiple CTE programs and was accepted to over 75 colleges.

GEORGE COUNTY: Carleigh Danielle Johns

Carleigh Danielle Johns is a dedicated senior at William Carey University, pursuing her degree in Elementary Education. After graduation, she envisions herself advancing at Southern Miss University, focusing on special education for emotional/behavioral disorders. While working full-time as a teacher assistant, she also serves as a caregiver for a young man with special needs. In her free time, she enjoys boating with her family and playing with her dog, Scout, embracing the beauty of life.

GREENE COUNTY: Taylor Garretson

A senior Digital Journalism major and Dance minor at USM, Taylor is a Dixie Darling and high school dance team coach. She is a Mississippi Press Association award winner and interned with the Greene County Herald, where she also worked on the Discover Greene County Magazine. Dresses from her Taylor’d To Shine non-profit organization have been worn on the Miss Hospitality stage. Taylor plans to continue her current career as a journalist and dance teacher.

GREENWOOD: Ali Hargett

Ali Hargett will major in Biology at the University of Mississippi as a member of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College. A high school MAIS All-Star Cheerleader and highest honors graduate, Ali is a dedicated volunteer in her community, receiving the Most Service Hours Award from the Junior Auxiliary of Greenwood. In the future, Ali hopes to become a pediatric dentist and will strive to improve access to oral healthcare in rural areas of Mississippi.

HATTIESBURG: Kassidy McMahon

Kassidy McMahon is a Pearl River Community College sophomore pursuing a degree in marketing. Kassidy is a dean’s list student and was named Miss PRCC, allowing her to compete in Miss Mississippi 2024. Kassidy has a love for her community and earned over 500 community service hours in her hometown. She will attend USM to complete her bachelor’s degree and pursue a career in Public Relations. She enjoys traveling, shopping, and, most of all, talking

JACKSON: DeAnna Gladney

DeAnna Gladney is a junior Honors student at Jackson State University majoring in Journalism and Media Studies with a focus in Integrated Marketing Communications. She’s passionate about art, media, fashion, beauty, and service, thriving on creativity and innovation. With experience across various media sectors, DeAnna is building a versatile foundation in brand marketing. Miss Gladney is especially interested in the tech industry and is committed to crafting bold, growth-driven brand experiences that connect and Inspire.

JACKSON COUNTY: Kyla Smith

Kyla Smith is a recent graduate of MGCCC where she earned her associate's degree in Engineering. She was a member of the women’s soccer team, Fellowship of Christian Athlete’s, and Phi Theta Kappa. Kyla will continue her studies at Mississippi State University, majoring in Building Construction Science. In high school, she graduated Top 10% of her class, was a member of NHS, captain of the girls' soccer team, and Prayer Chaplain for Lockheart's.

JEFFERSON DAVIS COUNTY: Mariah Evans

Mariah Evans, an incoming freshman at the University of Mississippi, will major in Pre-Law and Journalism. Ranked third in her high school class, Mariah led donation drives for the Ronald McDonald House and foster kids in Jefferson Davis and Lawrence County. Passionate about advocacy and community awareness, she believes law empowers her to speak for others while journalism informs. In her downtime, she enjoys her three dogs, who think they’re the ones in charge!

JONES COUNTY: Charlsee Smith

A recent graduate of South Jones High School, Charlsee Smith plans to attend the University of Southern Mississippi in the Fall majoring in Business and Entrepreneurship. At South Jones, Charlsee served as captain of the cheerleading squad, dance captain of the show choir “Company”, and a leader in the group Tribal Sounds. She enjoys mentoring the elementary show choir “Productions” where she is able to pour her love for singing and dancing into children.

LAMAR COUNTY: Olivia Graham

Olivia Graham is a graduate from Sumrall High School, a member of Legacy Show Choir, Beta Club, Vocal Vortex, and theatre. She served as president of the National Thespian Society for the past two years. Olivia developed strong skills in vocal performance, acting, and teamwork, qualities she hopes will inspire others through her love of the arts. Olivia will attend The University of Southern Mississippi where she will pursue a degree as a Forensic Medical Examiner.

LAUDERDALE COUNTY: Rylee Hailey

Rylee Hailey is a rising sophomore at the University of Southern Mississippi, and is pursuing a degree in Marketing. She plans to stay in Mississippi and utilize her marketing strategies and communication skills in her future career. At Southern Miss, Rylee is a member of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women. She is a Joe Paul Leadership Scholar, where she has had opportunities to lead community service projects and participates in the Baptist Student Union.

LAUREL: Payton Gray

Payton Gray is an upcoming sophomore at William Carey University, where she is majoring in Biology Pre-Med with a minor in Chemistry. At Carey, Payton is a member of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association. In high school, Payton graduated as a Mississippi Scholar, a Distinguished Academic Honors student, and was in the Hall of Fame. She enjoys being a member of her church’s praise/worship team, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.

LAWRENCE COUNTY: Breelee Case Alexander

Breelee Case Alexander is an incoming freshman at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she is majoring in Social Work with a double minor in Child Advocacy studies and Marketing with plans to pursue her masters. She is a Luckyday Scholar and a member of honors college. At Lawrence County High School, Breelee served as senior class representative, Book and Art club president, flute section leader, choir manager, and Social Media Manager for First Priority.

LEAKESVILLE: Madison Pipkins

Incoming Pearl River Community College sophomore, Madison Pipkins is on the President’s list and is a dedicated nursing student. Madison is pursuing a degree in Nursing where she desire to work with geriatric patients up on completion of the LPN program this summer. She is an avid outdoors woman who enjoys spending time with her family. Most importantly Madison loves Jesus.

LOWNDES COUNTY: Aven Matthews

Aven Matthews is an incoming freshman at Northwest Community College. Aven will play collegiate soccer for the Rangers while majoring in Elementary Education. At Caledonia High School, she was a member of the Student Government Association, the Beta Club, and the National Honors Society. She also played volleyball, tennis, ran track, and was captain of the soccer team. Aven serves her community by volunteering with youth soccer programs and through service with her church.

MAGEE: Natalie Styron

Natalie Styron has lived in Magee since she was an infant. She has grown up in her small, beautiful town and cherished every moment of it! She has one sibling, a younger sister, and two dogs which are very precious to her. She has played many sports since she was a toddler. Natalie loves being active and helping everyone in any way that she can. She would describe herself as a caring, kind, and outgoing person. She has attended Goodwater Baptist Church since she was born and loves being a part of her church family. Natalie enjoys attending youth group activities, spending time with friends and family, and going on trips..

MARION COUNTY: Isabella Jones

Isabella Jones is a junior at The University of Southern Mississippi majoring in Biological Sciences with a Chemistry minor. She plans to attend medical school and become a primary care provider. She was president of the National Honor Society and Beta Club in high school and graduated as Salutatorian. At USM, Isabella is a member of the American Medical Student Association, the American Chemistry Society, and is a Jackson Free Health Clinic Ambassador.

MENDENHALL: Bella Broadhead

Bella Broadhead is a junior at the University of Southern Mississippi, majoring in elementary education with a business minor. Bella takes great pride in serving as an ambassador for Southern Miss as a cheerleader, Luckyday Scholar, and member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. Bella has a deep passion for working with young people and hopes to inspire the next generation, both in the classroom as an educator and on the sidelines as a cheerleading coach.

MERIDIAN: Christina Mogollon

A nursing student at East Central Community College, Christina Mogollon has plans to pursue her nurse practitioner license specializing in acute critical care. Christina currently holds a pharmacy technician license with the Mississippi Board of Pharmacy and works in an inpatient pharmacy as a sterile compounding technician. She serves on the planning committee for Power of the Purse, a fundraiser for the Imagination Library, which she has been volunteering with since 2015.

NATCHEZ: Charlotte Book

Charlotte Book is an incoming freshman at the University of Mississippi, where she will be following in her mother’s footsteps by pursuing a career in nursing. In high school, she spent much of her time on the football field as a trainer, in the pool as a swim instructor with her grandmother, and behind the counter of Wardo’s, her family’s restaurant in Natchez, where her roots date back all the way to the 1700s

NEW ALBANY: Allyson Beard

A proud graduate of Ingomar Attendance Center, Allyson Beard, was Valedictorian, Mississippi Scholar, Student Body President, and Homecoming Queen. She is a rising sophomore at the University of Mississippi, where she’s pursuing a General Business degree on a Pre-Medicine track. At Ole Miss, she earned Chancellor’s List honors and was selected for the 2024–2025 Associated Student Body’s First Year Encounters program. Passionate about helping others, she hopes to become a pediatrician specializing in special needs.

NESHOBA COUNTY: Harley Hobby

Harley Hobby is a Junior Aerospace Engineering major, concentrating in Aeronautics, at Mississippi State University. There, she is involved in Phi Kappa Phi, AIAA, is an ACCESS Mentor, College of Engineering Ambassador, and intern at the Institute for Clean Energy. Harley plans to earn an MBA before working as a Flight Mechanics Engineer for the U.S. Military. In her free time, she enjoys playing piano, traveling, and cheering on the Dawgs with family and friends.

NEWTON COUNTY: McKinley Gregory

McKinley Gregory is a recent graduate of East Central Community College, where she was actively involved as a member of the Centralette Dance Line, President of the Diamond Darlings, Warrior Corps Student Ambassador, and part of the President’s Council. She will be an incoming junior at The University of Southern Mississippi this fall, pursuing a degree in Speech Pathology with a minor in Spanish. McKinley aims to work with elderly patients in long-term care facilities.

PANOLA COUNTY: Gabriella Russo

Gabriella Russo is an incoming freshman at Mississippi State University, majoring in Biological Sciences with plans to pursue her Doctorate in Orthopedic Medicine. In high school, Gabriella was valedictorian, MSPA Journalist of the Year, a state champion in track, a two-time national cheerleading champion, and a leader in service and leadership organizations. She enjoys volunteering with Junior Auxiliary Crown Club, serving in her church, and leading as captain of cross country, track, and Tiger TV.

PEARL RIVER COUNTY: Allie Alexis Anglin

Allie Alexis Anglin is a sophomore nursing major at The University of Southern Mississippi, where she plans to specialize in Labor and Delivery upon graduation. She is currently a member of the Luckyday Scholars Program, Citizenship Scholars program, and the sorority of Delta Delta Delta where she serves as the Alumni Relations Chair. Allie loves building connections within her community and enjoys musicals, cotton candy grapes, and going to church with friends and family.

PETAL: Macy Catherine Ellis

Macy Catherine Ellis is a pre-law and legal studies major at The University of Southern Mississippi and will attend law school, specializing in Family Law. At Southern Miss, she is a Joe Paul Leadership Scholar and a member of Kappa Delta sorority, where she serves as Songfest Chair and Recruitment Assistant. Macy enjoys traveling, reading, cheering on the Golden Eagles and spending time with family and friends.

PIKE COUNTY: Jordyn Elise Nellum

Jordyn Elise Nellum is a recent graduate of Southwest Mississippi Community College and will be attending The University of Southern Mississippi in the fall. At Southwest, she was Stage Band Student Director, Most Outstanding Choir Member, and Bear Tracker Campus Tour Chair. She loves community theater, music, and hopes to one day become a professional singer. She also aspires to be a choral director and teach music to children in Mississippi’s public schools.

PONTOTOC COUNTY: Anna Beth Brown

Anna Beth Brown, a senior at Mississippi State University, dually enrolled at Mississippi University for Women, is pursuing a degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Speech-Language Pathology. A proud graduate of Itawamba Community College, she was a student recruiter and SGA representative. Anna Beth is deeply involved in volunteering throughout her community, advocating for the arts, and is empowering young women with her newfound college-age women’s club: “She Leads” of North Mississippi.

RIDGELAND: Malee Davidson

Malee Davidson is a junior at the University of Mississippi where she is studying Biological Sciences and Chemistry and is a Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College member. Malee was a Top 10 finalist in Mississippi’s Distinguished Young Women Program and was awarded Outstanding Featured Actress at the Orpheum Memphis High School Musical Theatre Awards. Malee serves on numerous committees for her sorority and will serve Ole Miss Panhellenic as a recruitment counselor this upcoming session.

SCOTT COUNTY: Reagan Lowe

Reagan Lowe is a pre-med major at East Central Community College and plans to attend the University of Mississippi to become a pediatrician. At East Central, she is a Centralettes captain and member of Phi Theta Kappa. At Forest High School, she held leadership roles in cheer, color guard, and multiple sports. She was in Beta Club, National Honor Society, and a Distinguished Young Woman. Her honors include All-District Tennis and All-American Cheerleader.

SMITH COUNTY: Mallory Matthews

A 2025 Highest Honors graduate of Raleigh High School, Mallory Matthews served as cheerleader captain, color guard captain, and tennis captain. Her honors included Homecoming Maid, Class Favorite, Who’s Who Best Dressed, Friendliest, Most School Spirit, and RHS Most Beautiful. Mallory enjoys traveling with her family and her Persian cat, Vivian. She is an active member of Calvary Presbyterian Church. Mallory will attend Jones College as a member of the Touch of Gold Dance Team.

STARKVILLE: Madeline Montgomery

Madeline Montgomery is a Biochemistry major at Mississippi State University and will pursue a Doctorate in Dentistry. She is a member of Phi Mu sorority, the Shackouls Honors College, and the Pre-Dental Society. As a prestigious Luckyday Scholar, she also serves on the Luckyday Leadership Council. Madeline actively volunteers at the Starkville Public Library, Starkville Strong, and Bedz 4 Kidz. She enjoys cooking, reading, snow skiing, and spending time with friends and family.

SUMRALL: Molly-Kate Carley

At Mississippi College, Molly-Kate Carley serves on the Business School’s Student Advisory Board, is a member of the Kissimmee Tribe and Rotaract Club and is involved on and off campus. A President’s List honoree and Robinson Tire Scholarship recipient, she recently participated in the Faith and Business Ethics Event and received the Outstanding Junior Business Administration Award. Passionate about people and service, she finds great joy volunteering with individuals with special needs at Civitan Camp.

TATE COUNTY: McKenzie Goodwin

McKenzie Goodwin graduated from Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia, Mississippi. She was a member of the Ranger Band and Color Guard Team. While at NWCC, McKenzie earned her associate’s degree in Business Administration and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources at University of Mississippi’s Desoto Center starting in the fall. McKenzie is an active member of Strayhorn Baptist Church, where she loves to help her church family.

VICKSBURG: AnneMarie Jeffers

AnneMarie Jeffers is a sophomore at The University of Southern Mississippi, majoring in Hospitality and Tourism Management. She is a Luckyday Scholar, on the Preview Committee, and a member of the Concert Choir. She plans to become the CEO of a national hotel chain so she can travel the world. She enjoys reading romance and thriller books and singing in an award-winning choir. Her favorite memory is performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

WALTHALL COUNTY: Hallie Holmes

Hallie Holmes will attend Mississippi State University in the fall as a freshman majoring in Political Science. She is an advocate for animal welfare, and spends her time rescuing and rehabilitating animals across the state. Hallie is passionate about children’s healthcare and has used the story of her own battle with Ulcerative Colitis to help start a donation to be delivered each year to the families at Blair Batson Children’s Hospital by Governor Tate Reeves.

WAYNE COUNTY: Maci Freeman

Maci Freeman, a freshman at Jones College, is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honors society, and is on the President’s List. She plans to pursue a degree in Elementary Education, then obtain a master's in Dyslexic Therapy. Maci coaches gymnastics and the JV cheer squad at Wayne Academy. In high school, she was a track state champion, and received the Coaches Award, Squad Favorite, and Amanda Harvison award for her dedication to Varsity cheer.

WEST POINT: Bella Vick

Bella Vick is a freshman at Mississippi State University majoring in Biological Sciences. In high school, she was Star Student, President of the National Honors Society, Mississippi Eminent Scholar recipient, and was an All American Cheerleader. She enjoys performing on stage, dissecting many a specimen, painting stories with words and acrylics, playing challenging pieces on the piano, and spending time with friends and family.

WINSTON COUNTY: Betsy Karson Hatcher

Betsy Karson Hatcher is a graduate of Winston Academy and East Central Community College. This fall, she will attend Mississippi University for Women, majoring in Speech-Language Pathology. At WA, she was named Historian, Homecoming Queen, Senior Representative, FCA President, Mississippi Scholar, Gazette Editor, and Hall of Fame. At EC, she was a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society, President’s Council, Baptist Student Union, Diamond Darlings, President’s List scholar, and Warrior Corps Student Ambassadors President.