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University of Southern Mississippi (USM) junior Annalee Toler’s dream of competing in and earning the title of Miss University of Southern Mississippi came true when she secured the crown at the scholarship pageant held Nov. 16, in the Mannoni Performing Arts Center.
Toler, a native of Liberty, Miss. majoring in nursing and minoring in sociology and psychology, expressed gratitude to USM and its Student Government Association (SGA), which sponsors the annual event. She also earned scholarship funding which she will use in her pursuit of a nurse practitioner degree.
A Luckyday Citizenship scholar, Toler is a campus leader, active in the Citizen Scholar and Greek Seeker programs. Inspired by her cousin’s own cancer journey, her community service initiative–Crafts 4 Kids–supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through advocacy for art therapy programs, and organization of art supply donations to ease the anxiety of young patients.
Toler will now compete for the title of Miss Mississippi Pageant this summer in Vicksburg.
“Words cannot express how excited and honored I am to represent this university,” said Toler. “When I came to Southern Miss, competing in the scholarship pageant was something I always dreamed of. This is only the beginning of an amazing year I hope to have as Miss USM 2025. I’m looking forward to representing this university at Miss Mississippi in June, marketing this university across the state, and getting involved in student organizations.”
USM Assistant Dean of Students Daniel Rigel expressed how this accomplishment reflects not only Toler’s talent, but her commitment to excellence both in and out of the classroom.
“With her dedication to academics, leadership, and service, Annalee proudly represents USM and embodies the values of the Golden Eagle spirit,” Rigel said.
Other contestants and their placement in the pageant include Savannah Ogden, first alternate; Elizabeth Brady, second alternate; and Madelyn Barrentine, third alternate. Scarlett Scott earned the “Spirit of Miss USM” award; Ogden earned the crown of Miss Smith County the following evening, giving USM an additional student representative at the Miss Mississippi pageant.
MageeNews.com is the online news source for Simpson and surrounding counties as well as the State of Mississippi.
