SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
WE ARE SO PROUD OF EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!
MEET THE MISS HOSPITALITY STAFF
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
COMPETITION DIRECTOR
ANN CLAIRE KELLY
COMPETITION COORDINATOR
MICHAEL MARKS
PRODUCTION
COORDINATOR
LITTLE MISS COORDINATOR
MARLO DORSEY
KRISTEN BROCK
MEGAN MALLORY
MISS HOSPITALITY ADVISORY BOARD
BONNIE WARREN
DIRECTOR
EMERITUS
2023 CONTESTANT WORKSHOP 2023 CONTESTANT WORKSHOP
LYDIA PIERCE
THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISS LIASION
KELLY DUNN
PROGRAM
PHOTOGRAPHER
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
DR. CHANDLER HAWKINS
SPECIAL EVENTS
MILLIE SWAN APPEARANCES
PROGRAM HISTORY
➢ ESTABLISHED BY GOVERNOR FIELDING
WRIGHT AND THE MS LEGISLATURE
➢ HELD SINCE 1949
➢ BASED IN HATTIESBURG FOR 25+ YEARS
➢ OFFICIAL GOODWILL
AMBASSADOR FOR MS 2023 CONTESTANT WORKSHOP
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
KRISTEN BROCK, COMPETITION DIRECTOR
ICE BREAKER
SATURDAY, MAY 31,
MARLO DORSEY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
➢ TOURISM
➢ VISITMISSISSIPPI.ORG
➢ $11.5 BILLION VISITOR SPENDING IN 2023
➢ 43.7 MILLION VISITORS
CONTESTANT WORKSHOP
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
MARLO DORSEY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
TOURISM
TOURISM ➢ 4th LARGEST INDUSTRY IN THE STATE
133,000+ JOBS SUPPORTED
MARLO DORSEY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
➢ MISSISSIPPI.ORG
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
➢ INDUSTRY HIGHLIGHTS FROM YOUR LOCAL AREA AND STATE
➢ LOCAL AND STATE BUSINESSES
➢ LOCAL AND STATE LEADERSHIP
MARLO DORSEY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
WHAT TO EXPECT
➢ COMPETITION WEEK SCHEDULE
➢ REHEARSALS
➢ TRANSPORTATION
➢ WARDROBE
ANN CLAIRE KELLY COMPETITION COORDINATOR
WARDROBE
TAILGATE PARTY, MONDAY NIGHT
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
ANN CLAIRE KELLY COMPETITION COORDINATOR
WARDROBE
BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S PARTY, TUESDAY NIGHT
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
WARDROBE
CITY TOUR - TUESDAY
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
MS SPEECH/AUTOGRAPH PARTY - FRIDAY
WARDROBE
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES & FUN
➢ CITY TOUR
TAILGATE PARTY
THEME PARTY
CASUAL NIGHT
AUTOGRAPH PARTY
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
ROLE OF MISS HOSPITALITY
SATURDAY, MAY 31,
➢ ROLE OF MISS HOSPITALITY
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
BE YOUR BEST
➢ BE PREPARED
➢ ARTICULATION, RATE, TONE, PITCH, AND VOLUME
➢ BE UNIQUE
➢ WHAT HAVE YOU DONE BEYOND WHAT’S REQUIRED?
➢ BE CONFIDENT
➢ BE WILLING TO TELL YOUR STORY
MICHAEL MARKS PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
PREPARATION IS KEY
➢ THE BEST SURPRISE IS NO SURPRISE
➢ KNOW YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
➢ KNOW YOUR STATE
➢ KNOW YOURSELF
➢ THIS IS A JOB INTERVIEW
MICHAEL MARKS PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
JUDGING CRITERIA
FIVE JUDGES
➢ FORMER STATE TITLE HOLDER
➢ PAGEANT PROFESSIONAL
➢ TOURISM PROFESSIONAL
➢ ECON. DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONAL
➢ GUEST JUDGE (ON-STAGE ONLY)
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
KRISTEN BROCK, COMPETITION DIRECTOR
JUDGING CRITERIA
TOP TEN
➢ BROUGHT FORWARD:
➢ PANEL INTERVIEW
➢ MS SPEECH
➢ FINAL COMPETITION
➢ COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL
➢ EVENING GOWN
➢ ON-STAGE QUESTIONS
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL PANEL INTERVIEW
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
JUDGING CRITERIA
One-on-One Interview Competition – 15%
The Panel Interview will be a seated three-minute (per judge) judged session held on Wednesday of competition week.
The basic tool for conducting this interview is the contestant’s official application, which lists personal credits and serves as a guide for getting to know the interviewee.
WEDNESDAY ONE-ONONE INTERVIEW
An interview suit or dress shall be worn with heels.
No sash or crown.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Panel Interview Competition – 25%
The Panel Interview will be a standing five-minute judged session held on Thursday morning of competition week.
Direct, concise, and relevant questions ranging from tourism and economic development, world affairs, state and local politics, and information about Mississippi to personal ambitions, goals, and interests may be asked.
An interview suit or dress shall be worn with heels. No sash or crown.
25% WEDNESDAY PANEL INTERVIEW
JUDGING CRITERIA
Mississippi Speech Competition– 20%
Contestants will stand before the panel of judges to present an original, memorized 90-second speech answering “How would you promote our state to a visitor?” It should be delivered in an eloquent entertaining format and no visual aids may be used. Speeches will be timed and a 5-second grace period will be extended, after which a perfect score cannot be achieved.
A provided t-shirt tucked into black shorts shall be worn. The speech will be given while standing.
CONTESTANT WORKSHOP SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
JUDGING CRITERIA
Community Commercial– 20%
Contestants will model a solid-colored cocktail dress of their choice on-stage.
During this area of competition, contestants will present an original, memorized 20-second commercial on important aspects of their city or county.
20% ON-STAGE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL
CONTESTANT WORKSHOP
CONTESTANT WORKSHOP
JUDGING CRITERIA
Evening Gown – 20%
Contestants will model an evening gown of any color onstage. During competition, the emcee will read the bio provided by contestants.
On-Stage Question – 15%
On final night of competition, an on-stage question will be asked during the Top 10 and Top 5 phases of competition.
20%
ON-STAGE EVENING GOWN
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
MEET WITH ROOMMATES FOR 10 MINUTES
CAMPUS EXPERIENCE
➢ RESIDENCE HALLS
➢ NO GUESTS OR DELIVERIES
➢ WHAT TO PACK & BRING
➢ EAGLE DINING ➢ FLOWER & GIFT DELIVERIES ➢ USM WELCOME TEAM
HOST MOMS
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
LYDIA PIERCE BOARD MEMBER
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
OPPORTUNITIES
➢ SCHOLARSHIPS
➢ PRIZE PACKAGE
➢ NETWORKING & RELATIONSHIP BUILDING
➢ SUPPORTER ACTIVITIES
➢ AUTOGRAPH PARTY
➢ FAREWELL BRUNCH
ANN CLAIRE KELLY COMPETITION COORDINATOR
PHOTOGRAPHY
➢ COMPETITION WEEK PHOTOS
➢ PHOTO PACKAGES
➢ SOCIAL MEDIA
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
ANN CLAIRE KELLY COMPETITION COORDINATOR
LITTLE MISS PROGRAM
SCHEDULE
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
MEGAN MALLORY
LITTLE MISS COORDINATOR
➢ EMERGENCY CONTACT
➢ COMPETITION WEEK CHECKIN ➢ MOVE-IN PROCESS ➢ COMPETITION WEAR
HOMETOWN GIFTS
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
KRISTEN BROCK, COMPETITION DIRECTOR
WHAT TO EXPECT
➢ TICKETS & LIVE STREAM
HOST HOTELS
KRISTEN BROCK, COMPETITION DIRECTOR
WHAT TO EXPECT
➢ SOCIAL MEDIA COMPETITION
➢ STATE TITLEHOLDER CONTRACT
➢ ADDITIONAL AWARDS
➢ TOP 3 JAY SLAUGHTER SPEECH AWARD
➢ COMMUNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP ➢ MOST PHOTOGETIC ➢ LAKE LITTLE SPIRIT OF HOSPITALITY ➢ HIGHEST AD SALES
CONTESTANT WORKSHOP 2025 CONTESTANT WORKSHOP
KRISTEN BROCK, COMPETITION DIRECTOR
LUNCH & CHOREOGRAPHY
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
➢ LUNCH FOR CONTESTANTS
➢ BIO REVIEW
➢ HEADSHOT SELECTION
CHOREOGRAPHY
➢ PARENTS/DIRECTORS RETURN AT 3:00 P.M.
KRISTEN BROCK, COMPETITION DIRECTOR
Mississippi Miss Hospitality 2025 Schedule of Events
Tuesday Wednesday July 15 July 16
Shirt: Forrest General (kelly green) Shirt: American Graphics (lilac)
One-on-One Interviews 8:00 AM intereviewed. Pictures will also be taken during this time in the residence hall. 8:30 AM City Tour 9:00 AM
9am - 1:30pm (departure time 8:45am) 8-11:30am 9:30 AM
Hall 10:00 AM Dress: Interview suit/dress 10:30 AM 11:00 AM
11:30 AM
Dress: Provided shirt & nice shorts 11:30-12:30 Noon Lunch will be set up in the common room of residence hall 12:30 PM Rehearsal 1:00 PM 1:00-4:00pm (departure time 12:45pm) 1:30 PM Rehearsal Saenger Theater 2:00 PM
2:30 PM 2pm-5pm 3:00 PM
7-8:30pm (departure time 6:45pm) Easy night to prepare for interviews 7:30 PM Location: The Bottling Company 8:00 PM
Themed Attire 8:30 PM
Thursday Friday
July 17
July 18
Shirt: USM (black/gold) Shirt: Miss Hospitality (dusty blue/grey)
Panel Interviews
Speech Competition 8:00 AM intereviewed. Pictures will also be taken during this time in the residence hall.
intereviewed. Pictures will also be taken during this time in the residence hall. 8:30 AM 8-11:30am 9:00 AM
7:30am-12:30pm Luckyday Hall 9:30 AM
Luckyday Hall
Dress: Provided T-shirt & black shorts (tucked in) 10:00 AM 10:30 AM
Dress: Interview suit/dress 11:00 AM Lunch Contestant Lunch 11:30 AM
11:00-12:30pm 11:30-12:30pm (departure time 11:15am) Noon
Lunch will be set up in the common room of residence hall
Dress: Same 12:30 PM
Rehearsal Autograph Party 1:00 PM
1-4:00pm (departure time 12:45pm) 12:45-2:00pm (departure time 12:30pm) 1:30 PM
Saenger Theater Attire: Same 2:00 PM
Dress: Provided T-shirt & nice shorts
Rehearsal with Little Misses 2:30 PM
2:30-4:30pm 3:00 PM Saenger Theater 3:30 PM
Dress & Dinner Time Dress: Same 4:00 PM
4-6:15pm Dress & Dinner Time 4:30 PM 4:30-6:45pm 5:00 PM
**Eat dinner in the residence hall** Residence Hall 5:30 PM
Dress: Arrival outfit/sundress 6:00 PM
Dress Rehearsal
6:30-9:30pm (departure time 6:15pm)
Saenger Theater
Dress: Pajama Party
**Eat dinner in the residence hall** 6:30 PM
Pre-Competition
7-8:00pm (departure time 6:45pm) 7:00 PM
Dress: Arrival Outfit Saenger 7:30 PM
Preliminary Competition 8:00 PM plus competition wear 8-10pm 8:30 PM Saenger Theater 9:00 PM
Residence Hall
Dress: Competition Wear 9:30 PM
Saturday July 19
Shirt: Coca Cola (red)
Packing Time
Until 9:40am
*Parents/directors will not be admitted at this time*
Farewell Brunch
10-11:30am (departure time 9:45am)
USM's Thad Cochran Center
Attire: Sunday Best
Pack & Move
11:45-12:45
Do not leave the residence hall property/parking lot!
Rehearsal with Little Misses
1:00-4:30pm (departure time 12:45pm)
Saenger Theater
Dress: Provided T-shirt & nice shorts
Little Miss & Contestant Social
3:45-4:30pm
Dress & Dinner Time
4:30-6:45pm
Residence Hall
Dress: Travel outfit/sundress
**Eat dinner at residence hall**
Pre-Competition
7-8:00pm
Dress: Arrival Outfit
Saenger Theater
Final Competition
8-10pm
Saenger Theater
Dress: Competition Wear
OMPETITION WARDROBE
ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE OUTFIT
PRELIMINARY INTERVIEWS
During Panel and One-on-One interviews with the judges, contestants should wear one of the following: skirt suit, paint suit, or interview dress. Heels should be worn and jewelry of the contestant’s choosing may be added Week-of competition sashes will be worn during interviews
Contestants are encouraged to show their style but must remember that interviews are meant to be serious, and professionalism is key. Please make sure all outfits are of appropriate length and cut. This is a judged area of competition.
This will be worn to and from the Saenger Theater on nights of preliminary and final competition. Contestants will be seen by their supporters and attendees during this time Outfits should be a sundress, jumper, or other nice appearance outfit
Many contestants choose to wear the same arrival and departure outfit on both competition nights Some also opt to re-use an outfit worn earlier in the week. While it will only be worn briefly, it should be neat and appropriate for public viewing. Photos will be taken in this outfit.
Please make sure all outfits are of modest length and cut. This is not a judged area of competition.
OPENING NUMBER
Contestants should wear solid blue for the opening number Any shade of blue is acceptable This outfit should be more fashionable than formal and can include sequins, beading, and other adornments. It should remain appropriate to reflect the gracious qualities of Miss Hospitality. Nude or clear heels should be worn.
While this is not a judged area of competition, it will be the judging panel and audience’s first time to see contestants on stage. The same outfit will be worn both nights, and a production number will be performed while wearing this outfit so contestants should be able to fully and freely move in it.
OMPETITION WARDROBE(CON.)
EVENING GOWN COMPETITION
COMMERCIAL COMPETITION
This may be a cocktail dress of any solid color. Patterns and adornments should be limited and are not recommended. Nude or clear heels should be worn with the dress.
A production number will be performed while wearing this outfit, so choose something you can easily move in Length should be strongly considered and appropriate for on-stage viewing
The same dress will be worn both nights This is a judged area of competition
Contestants may wear a floor-length evening gown of any color or style. This should represent the contestant’s personality but must remain appropriate to reflect the gracious qualities of Miss Hospitality.
Nude or clear heels should be worn with the dress, preferably the same as worn during other on-stage areas of competition The same dress will be worn both nights
Bios will be read during this phase of competition, and walking patterns will be made across the stage. A production number will be also be performed while wearing this outfit, so contestants should have full extension and use of their arms and legs in this dress. This is a judged area of competition.
NON-COMPETITION WARDROBE
Outfits worn during competition week but not during performance will be thoroughly reviewed at Contestant Workshop. A few helpful notes are included below.
Contestants are expected to wear nice shorts and comfortable shoes during rehearsals. All rehearsal t-shirts will be provided, except for a “hometown t-shirt” that each contestant will provide for themselves and wear to check-in on day 1 of competition week. Rehearsal shorts should be of appropriate length and designed for a shirt to be tucked in; athletic shorts or those will rips or holes will not be permitted. These may be in any color or pattern. Tennis shoes and / or comfortable sandals are recommended for rehearsals.
Contestants are encouraged to get creative with wardrobe. Several outfits can be re-purposed for different events and activities. We do not expect entirely new wardrobes to be purchased for the week of competition. Find things in your closet, borrow or rent dresses from friends, or find a local business who may want to donate Choose outfits that reflect your personality and, most importantly, that you ’ re comfortable and confident wearing!
SUNDAY
Check-in
Hometown t-shirt
Nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
Rehearsal
Hometown t-shirt
Nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
MONDAY
Rehearsal
T-shirt (provided)***
Nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
Tailgate Party
College shirt/jersey
Shorts, skirt, or jeans
TUESDAY
City Tour & Rehearsal
T-shirt (provided)
Nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
Theme Party
Breakfast at Tiffany’s themed attire
WEDNESDAY
One-on-One Interview
Interview suit or dress
Dress shoes
Rehearsal
T-shirt (provided)
Nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
Fun Night Event
Same as rehearsal outfit
THURSDAY
Panel Interview
Interview suit or dress
Dress shoes
Rehearsal
T-shirt (provided)
Nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
Dress Rehearsal
Pajamas (arrival outfit)
Competition Wear
2025 WARDROBE DETAILS
FRIDAY
Mississippi Speech
T-shirt (provided)
Black nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
Rehearsal and
Autograph Party
Same as speech competition
Preliminary Competition
Arrival Outfit
Competition Wear
SATURDAY
Farewell Brunch
Sunday Best
Rehearsal
T-shirt (provided)
Nice shorts**
Sandals or athletic shoes
Final Competition
Arrival Outfit
Competition Wear
**Nice shorts should be of appropriate length and design. No athletic shorts, blue jean shorts or those with rips or tears will be permitted. Shorts for rehearsals may be in any color or pattern, but shorts worn during Mississippi Speech competition must be black with shirts tucked in. A belt is recommended.
***All rehearsal t-shirts will be provided except for the Hometown t-shirt, which should be brought to competition and can be designed by the contestant or donated by a hometown business. Sizes and colors of provided shirts cannot be guaranteed prior to competition.
NON COMPETITION WARDROBE
Breakfast at Tiffany’s Theme Party – Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn! A fun, low pressure event to dance the night away, black dresses, pearls, and jewels will rule this evening.
Select an outfit that makes you feel your best –pull something “vintage” from the closet or make it modern… Just show up ready for a good time!
Tailgate Party – Support your current, future, or favorite college by donning their gear at our Tailgate Party!
This is a casual event, so shorts, skirts, or denim is appropriate for the setting. Sandals or athletic shoes are recommended.
Only contestants, staff, and board members will be present for this event.
Farewell Brunch – Local Directors and supporters will be invited to celebrate the week’s achievements with our contestants.
Jay Slaughter Speech Award recipients will recite their Mississippi Speech, and photos from the weeks’ festivities will be shared with all.
Wear your “Sunday Best” to this event. It may be a good time to recycle an arrival or check-in outfit if you so choose. This is a ticketed event for attendees other than contestants and Local Directors.
AREAS OF COMPETITION
JUDGING DETAILS
One-on-One Interview (Wednesday Prelim) – Each judge will meet individually with each contestant for three (3) minutes. The basic tool for conducting this interview is the contestant’s official application, which lists personal credits and serves as a guide for questions.
Weight: 15%; does not carry forward to Saturday’s final competition
Panel Interview (Thursday Prelim) – Each contestant will stand before the panel of judges for a five (5) minute interview. Direct, concise, and relevant questions ranging from tourism and economic development, world affairs, state and local politics, and information about Mississippi, to personal ambitions, goals, and interests may be asked.
Weight: 25%; does carry forward to Saturday’s final competition
Mississippi Speech (Friday Prelim) – Contestants will stand before the panel of judges to present an original, memorized 90-second speech answering “How would you promote our state to a visitor?” It should be delivered in an eloquent, entertaining format and no visual aids may be used. Speeches will be timed and a 5-second grace period will be extended, after which a perfect score cannot be achieved.
Weight: 20%; does carry forward to Saturday’s final competition
Community Commercial (On-stage) – Contestants will present an original, memorized 20-second commercial on important aspects of their community, promoting their hometowns to all in attendance. A 3-second grace period will be extended, after which a perfect score cannot be achieved.
Weight: 20%; does not carry forward to Saturday’s final competition
Evening Gown (On-stage) – Contestants will model a floor-length evening gown while their bio is read.
Weight: 20%; does not carry forward to Saturday’s final competition
Top 10 Question (On-stage) – Contestants advancing to Saturday’s Top 10 competition will be asked an onstage question during evening gown competition, to be scored separately from evening gown. While contestants will have no knowledge of which is selected, they will have answered the question during preliminary competition.
Weight: 15%
Top 5 Question (On-stage) – Contestants advancing to Saturday’s Top 5 competition will receive points based on their response to an on-stage question selected by the judging panel. As a collective, the judging panel may choose questions from their areas of expertise, current events, and other topics to help determine final competition placement.
JUDGING PANEL
Preliminary and On-stage Judges – Four (4) judges will participate in preliminary and on-stage competition. Their backgrounds entail tourism, economic development, media, and competition experience.
Guest Judge – One (1) judge will join the panel for on-stage areas of competition on Friday and Saturday night only.
SOCIAL MEDIA COMPETITON
We’re excited to resume the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Social Media Competition in 2025! This is a chance to shine online by promoting your competition journey and Mississippi’s tourism and economic development industries while engaging with your supporters. This portion of the competition does not count toward overall competition scores and is evaluated separately Contestants are not required to participate in this scholarship contest, but it’s highly encouraged. The top scorer of the contest will be awarded on-stage with a scholarship, sponsored by the Mississippi Tourism Association.
SOCIAL MEDIA COMPETITION DATES
Start Date: June 2, 2025
End Date: July 19, 2025
Winner Announced: Final Night of Competition
GUIDELINES
A social media calendar has been provided. Contestants should follow these guidelines and will only receive points for the posts shown on the calendar, although additional engagement is encouraged. Posts should only be made on public social media pages (Instagram/Facebook/TikTok) – contestants may post to more than one platform but will not receive extra points for doing so. Posts should all be made to the same social media page, which can be an official local Miss Hospitality page (recommended) or a contestant’s personal page, as long as the privacy settings are set to public
JUDGING CRITERIA
• Creativity and originality of content
• Relevance to theme and guidelines
• Engagement (likes, shares, meaningful comments)
• Authenticity and passion in captions
RULES
TO REMEMBER
• The participating profile(s) must be public for the duration of the competition.
• All posts must be published on the specified calendar date to qualify.
• Use the correct hashtags or your post may not be counted.
• Content must be respectful, original, and aligned with the values of Mississippi Miss Hospitality.
Social media scholarship scoring will be completed by independent marketing professionals and does not affect other competition scoring.
JUNE 2025
JULY 2025
MS Monday
Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: VisitHBURG (#visithburg + tag)
Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: Southern Miss (#SMTTT + tag)
Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: Forrest General Hospital (tag)
Competition Prep Update: Update on what you are doing to prepare for Miss Hospitality
Presenter Spotlight: Visit Mississippi (#visitms + tag)
Hometown Highlight
NOTES:
Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: City of Hattiesburg (tag)
Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: Saenger Theater (#saengershows + tag) Competition Night 1 Competition Night 2
HASHTAGS: #MSHosp2025 and #MSGoodwill in EVERY post to compete for scholarship.
Hometown Highlight - Share something about the community you represent MS Monday - Share a fun fact about the great state of Mississippi Ticket Tuesday - Encourage your followers to support you in state competition Presenter Spotlight - Recognize each of our generous presenters in your post.
HOUSING DETAILS
Contestants will be provided accommodations with an assigned roommate at one of The University of Southern Mississippi’s newest residence calls, Luckyday Citizenship Hall. Below are notes to help prepare for your stay.
• Bring bedding for a twin XL mattress, including sheets, blankets, and pillows.
• Multiple private bathrooms are available for shared use and include a shower curtain, but you must bring towels and all other essentials/toiletries. Slip on shoes and a robe/towel wrap are recommended to wear to/from the bathrooms.
• A pedestal sink and mirror are included in each sleeping room. However, contestants are encouraged to bring a makeup mirror to use on in-room desks as a vanity space.
• Bring an inexpensive full-length mirror, iron, and ironing board, if you desire. Talk to your roommate and possibly split/share. Candles are prohibited.
• There is a mini refrigerator in each room along with a common area kitchen that includes a microwave, full-size refrigerator, and ice machine.
• All lunches and dinners during Competition Week are provided, along with light breakfast food and snacks; however, you are welcome to bring favorite snacks/drinks to enjoy at the residence hall if preferred.
• NO outside food or drink will be allowed for delivery during the competition weekincluding coffees and loaded teas. If you require specific dietary items, bring them with you upon check-in.
• NO visitors will be allowed during your stay in Hattiesburg, or during any activity, for the duration of the competition week. This excludes the public autograph signing on Friday and Farewell Brunch on Saturday.
• Hairdressers and make-up assistants are NOT allowed at any point in the week. This rule also applies to family and friends. NO ONE will be allowed in the residence hall or backstage at any point, including to assist in preparing for competition nights.
• You will have two fantastic host parents who will be available throughout the week for guidance and will be very valuable to you!
CHECK IN
ARRIVAL DETAILS
Registration and move-in will be from 12noon-2:30pm on Sunday, July 13 at Luckyday Citizenship Hall on the campus of The University of Southern Mississippi. Each contestant must check-in no later than 12:30pm and settle into assigned rooms by 2:30pm. Contestants should have eaten lunch prior to their arrival; dinner will be provided later in the day.
VEHICLES AND PARKING
Contestants are encouraged to arrive with their parents and/or directors. If a contestant drives themselves to competition, their keys must be given to state office staff to be stored during the week. Contestants will not have access to their vehicles during competition week. All transportation will be provided by shuttle bus.
You are encouraged to park on the first floor of the 4th Street Parking Garage at 2904 West 4 th Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. Upon arrival, first walk to Luckyday Hall to check in. You will be assigned a room number and key card, at which time you’ll go back to the vehicle to begin unloading. Carts will be provided and there will be a limited number of on-site volunteers to help unload vehicles.
Do not unpack competition wear at the residence hall – bring this with you to the Saenger Theater. The Saenger will be available beginning at 2:45 p.m. for you to place competition wear directly in your assigned dressing area.
ORIENTATION
Following registration and move-in, a mandatory Contestant Orientation will be held at the Saenger Theater in downtown Hattiesburg at 3:00pm. Parents and directors are invited to attend but are not required. Transportation will not be provided to Orientation, so please ride with your parents or director.
Mail and packages may be sent to contestants throughout Competition Week. There will be a table in the residence hall lobby for mailed items. **Regular mail must be sent to the Box # listed below no later than July 7.**
The University of Southern Mississippi FOR UPS/FED-EX PACKAGES
Union Department
ATTN: Miss Hospitality
118 College Drive Box #5067
Hattiesburg, MS 39406
Union Department, Attn: Miss Hospitality
USM RECEIVING
2601 W 4th Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
RESIDENCE HALL CHECKOUT INSTRUCTIONS
In the spirit of appreciation and respect for the accommodations at USM, we ask that all contestants take personal responsibility for the condition of their sleeping rooms and common areas during their stay and upon departure.
Contestants must do their part in keeping the common areas and communal kitchen neat and tidy during competition week. Trash should be properly disposed of and any food items should be put in their proper space or thrown away. Please do not rely on your host moms to clean up after you. Common areas will be inspected daily by state office and USM officials to ensure compliance.
Before checking out, contestants are required to clear out their rooms of all personal belongings and dispose of any trash, food, or other items. Ample time will be provided for this following Saturday morning’s Farewell Brunch. While a full cleaning of the space is not expected, rooms should be left tidy and in similar condition to how they were found upon arrival. This includes picking up any spills, straightening furniture, and ensuring no items are left behind. To support this effort, trash bags will be provided in the common area for your convenience.
Please be advised that if a room is left in poor condition (e.g., trash, spills, excessive mess, items left behind, or damage), a fine of $150 per roommate will be assessed to cover additional cleaning and maintenance costs.
Thank you for your cooperation and for showing respect to our hosts.
Sleeping Area
• Remove all personal belongings
• Remove all trash and dispose of it properly.
• Remove bedding and mattress cover.
• Ensure all furniture is in original position.
Mini-Fridge
• Remove all contents and clean any spills inside your mini-fridge.
• Unplug the in-room refrigerator.
General
• Remove all belongings and trash.
• Clean any visible spills.
• Turn off lights.
• Return key to designated location
HOST HOTELS
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
Our host hotels have blocked friends & family rooms for this year’s competition at a reduced rate. Discounted rooms must be booked by calling the property directly and mentioning Mississippi Miss Hospitality. Rooms at these discounted rates are limited and filled first-come, first-serve
Holiday Inn North $149 + tax including breakfast 6553 US Hwy 49 Hattiesburg, MS 39401 (601) 990-9340
OFFICIAL FLORIST
DoubleTree by Hilton $129 + tax including breakfast 10 Gateway Drive Hattiesburg, MS 39402 (601) 296-030
Flowers are always a refreshing reminder of support during competition week and on competition nights. Below is contact information for our official floral provider supporting this year’s competition. Bloom’s will deliver arrangements and gifts directly to contestants at the USM residence hall or Saenger Theater throughout competition week. A mailer with more details and floral packages will be provided directly from this partner.
Bloom’s Company
601-584-9200
Beautiful floral arrangements accompanied by unique gifts ranging from Peter’s Pottery to candles, jewelry, and more.
OFFICIAL GIFT SHOP
Contestants love little gifts during competition week! Below is contact information for this year’s official gift shop. Accent’s will deliver gifts directly to at the USM residence hall or Saenger Theater throughout competition week. A mailer with more details and gift packages will be provided directly from this partner.
Accents Fine Home Interiors and Gifts
601-584-4550
Unique gift items, pottery, candles, jewelry lines, sorority and collegiate apparel, and more.
HOMETOWN GIFTS
Completely optional, contestants often bring hometown gifts to share with their fellow contestants and host moms. These are often items donated by local shops and providers such as soaps, lotions, cookies, crafts, etc. Hometown gifts will be traded throughout the week and contestants should bring fifty (50) of the same item if they choose to participate
CONTESTANT BRUNCH
A Farewell Brunch will be hosted on Saturday, July 19, 2025 Held at the Thad Cochran Center ballroom on the campus of The University of Southern Mississippi, special recognitions will be made including presentations, including the Top 3 MS Speech winners.
Contestants and Local Directors will receive a complimentary ticket to attend. A limited number of supporter tickets may be purchased to attend the Farewell Brunch. Family and friends are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as they will not be sold at the door.
Ticket sales end June 18, 2025. They may be purchased at https://bit.ly/2025farewellbrunch or using the provided QR code.
COMMUNITY AUTOGRAPH PARTY
A Community Autograph Party will be held on Friday, July 18 at Turtle Creek Mall in Hattiesburg. The event is scheduled from 12:45 until 2:00 pm and is come-and-go.
Family and friends are invited to attend the event in support of their favorite contestants. Little Misses will attend the event alongside local contestants, and autograph sheets will be provided to all participants. Attendees should enter through the mall entrance by At Home.
2025 TICKET INFORMATION
There are a limited number of seats being sold for the 2025 Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition. Each ticket purchased will include a reserved seat number for 8pm on the competition night purchased. Your supporters may purchase tickets prior to the competition or at the Saenger Theater on each competition night, based on availability. However, with the number of contestants participating this year and ever-growing popularity of the program, we anticipate the show selling out. Please encourage supporters to purchase tickets early.
Purchasing Tickets
Ticket sales will open on Monday, June 9 at 9am for contestant and Little Miss families and supporters. Tickets will not be announced to the public until Monday, June 16 to allow your supporters priority seating. The pre-sale code is MSHOSP. Do not publicly post this code anywhere.
Tickets must be purchased separately for each competition night, they are $35 each for premium reserved seating and $30 for general reserved seating, plus fees. We cannot guarantee you will be able to reserve the same seat for both nights; however, you can select your seats based on availability at time of ordering.
There are 2 ways to purchase tickets:
1. Online - The easiest and fastest way to purchase tickets is online at www.HattiesburgSaenger.com. Ticketmaster is the only ticketing agent used by the Saenger Theater, so do not use websites outside of the direct links on the official Saenger website.
2. By Phone - 601.584.4888 - Saenger Theater Box Office* - Saenger Theater Box Office hours are typically Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.
*When calling to purchase tickets, please know that box office operators are limited. If operators are assisting other customers, you may leave your name and number on the box office voicemail. Operators will return those calls in the order they are received. Please have a credit card available when calling.
Cash customers may only purchase tickets in-person at the Saenger Theater Box Office location during operating hours.
For all questions regarding ticket sales, call the Saenger Theater at 601.584.4888.
2025 PHOTO PACKAGE
All contestants will have the opportunity to purchase a photo package, granting access to professional photographs taken during the full competition week. These images will be available through a secure, limited-time online gallery with download privileges.
PACKAGE DETAILS
• Unlimited digital downloads of high-resolution, professionally captured images from competition week will be available for a limited period before link expiration.
• Access to a secure online gallery to review all photos from competition week.
• Password-protected access to ensure privacy and security.
• Variety of images which may include candid moments, stage competition shots, and behind-the-scenes highlights.
• Access will expire after a set period please download all desired images before the expiration date.
• Downloads are available for personal use only and may not be used for commercial purposes without permission.
• Photo links are expected to be emailed to contestants no later than August 11, 2025.
PURCHASE DETAILS
• All photo packages will be sold exclusively by the Mississippi Miss Hospitality State Office.
• Packages are $200 and must be purchased by July 11, 2025 at https://square.link/u/hS3WelSe
2025MississippiMissHospitality Contract
DESCRIPTION
The Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition is an annual event presented by VisitHattiesburg and supported by the Mississippi Development Authority, City of Hattiesburg, Forrest General Hospital, Historic Saenger Theater, and T he University of Southern Mississippi. The program provides a method of discovering the individual best suited to fulfill the role of volunteer goodwill ambassador for tourism and economic development in Mississippi.
Through this statewide competition, contestants are provided an opportunity to develop and polish public speaking skills, interview skills, poise, and interpersonal relations among fellow contestants, judges, and competition officials.
At the culmination of competition, through the mechanism of the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition, the overall winner will serve the State of Mississippi promoting tourism and economic development. During the subsequent 12 months (term of the program and winner’s term of office), the overall winner agrees to re side in the State of Mississippi without significant absences and must be available to attend sanctioned Mississippi Miss Hospitality events, as determined by the Advisory Board, for the duration of her term of office.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
The Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition is a subcomponent of VisitHattiesburg and is governed by its statutes, bylaws, and policies. By entering into this agreement, the competition winner agrees to be bound by the organizational directives as given by the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition staff, Advisory Board, and/or the Director of VisitHattiesburg or their assigns.
The role of Mississippi Miss Hospitality includes substantial travel, publicity, public appearances, and digital messaging. The cooperation of Mississippi Miss Hospitality is crucial to the success of the program. As such, the competition winner will attend events and appearances under the title of Mississippi Miss Hospitality and is expected to be available for appearances and digital messaging as scheduled by the Advisory Board or their representatives in accordance with semester school schedules as established immediately prior to each school term During her reign, the competition winner may not participate in any other competition or pageant that may lead to an additional title or interfere with her duties as Mississippi Miss Hospitality.
The competition winner should be in good health and able to accommodate automobile and air travel, as well as numerous personal appearances within and outside of the State of Mississippi. She will endeavor to accommodate reasonable requests of her hosts at all functions and will arrange her class schedule to be no more than 15 hours per semester during her term of office. If needed, the competition winner will make herself available during school breaks and intermissions for the purposes of fulfilling her responsibilities of office. The competition winner agrees to remain unmarried and without children for the duration of her term of office and understands her title will otherwise be revoked immediately.
If Mississippi Miss Hospitality has a traveling entourage to any official event, said entourage will typically consist of one chaperone; a representative from the Advisory Board. It is at the discretion of the Board as to whom and when a chaperone is appropriate. Exceptions to this policy will be reviewed on a case by case basis as presented by the competition winner to the Advisory Board
Mississippi Miss Hospitality is expected to conduct herself in a manner which positively promotes the State of Mississippi, the Miss Hospitality Program, herself and her reputation, her family, and all partners, contributors, and investors in the program.
As such, Mississippi Miss Hospitality should carefully consider decisions, both in-person and digitally, of style of dress, grooming, companions, personal conduct, and reputation during her reign. In her role as an Ambassador for the State and the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program, Mississippi Miss Hospitality should seek to interact with others in a pleasant, enthusiastic, gregarious, and sophisticated manner at all official functions and online. The competition winner agrees to conduct herself at all times in a manner that brings respect to herself, her entourage, the Advisory Board of the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program, and the State of Mississippi. In signing, the winner agrees to abide by the discretion of the Advisory Board and staff in matters of conduct, presentation, availability, and events. All official representation and appearances must be approved by the state office.
All scholarships, gifts, wardrobes, and other prizes which are provided at various times throughout the program year are offered and presented contingent on the good, faithful, and graceful performance of the individual selected to perform this role. Allocation and distribution of prizes will be left to the discretion of the Advisory Board and will be provided at various times throughout the competition winner’s reign as Mississippi Miss Hospitality. Scholarship allocations will be given by semester, with the first payment being made upon signing of this contract. The final scholarship payment will be paid at the beginning of the second semester, contingent on satisfactory completion of appearance and social media requirements set forth in this document. Should the winner resign, become unable or unwilling to serve, or is removed from office as determined by a majority vote of the Advisory Board at a special-called meeting, all scholarships, awards, and prizes already awarded , or to be awarded, are subject to forfeiture and shall be returned to the Mississippi Miss Hospitality organization.
The Advisory Board and Mississippi Miss Hospitality agree to work together to achieve the purpose of the program and to resolve any problems. However, all decisions of the Advisory Board are final. If the removal or abdication of Mississippi Miss Hospitality shall become necessary, then the first runner-up will become Mississippi Miss Hospitality for the duration of the remaining term of office and may receive remaining scholarships, gifts, and wardrobes as determined by the Board.
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
The parties to this contract agree and acknowledge that Mississippi Miss Hospitality is not an employee of Mississippi Miss Hospitality Advisory Board, VisitHattiesburg, the State of Mississippi, the Mississippi Development of Authority, or any sponsor, partner, donor, or other party that may participate in the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program. Mississippi Miss Hospitality is an independent contractor, and she has control over and discretion in the specific manner in which she conducts her duties while at each event or function. While she will endeavor to accommodate reasonable appearance requests and conduct herself in a manner in keeping with the intent of the program as guided by the Advisory Board, she will not be required to attend any specific event or function if there is a conflict with her academic schedule. She will not receive any wages or salary for attendance at events and functions in connection with the position of Mississippi’s Miss Hospitality. She acknowledges that, because she is not an employee, she will not be covered by Workers’ Compensation or other insurance of any of the entities referred to in this paragraph.
HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT
The undersigned understands that the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program is a voluntary activity and as such agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless VisitHattiesburg, the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program, the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program Advisory Board and any and all affiliates, agents, contractors, employees and members from and against any and all claims, actions, liability and expense, including attorney’s fees and court costs, in connection with los s of life, personal injury and/or damage to property arising from or occasioned wholly or in part by any act or omission of the Program during the winner’s term of office.
The undersigned agrees to maintain appropriate personal health, accident and vehicle liability insurance (on any personal vehicle used in performance of duties of office) for the duration of her term of office.
DUTIES AGREEMENT
The undersigned hereby agrees that upon signing this document and accepting the position of Mississippi Miss Hospitality, she has read and understands this document and its contents. Further, she agrees to be bound by these terms as well as the directives and decisions of the Advisory Board of the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program.
The undersigned agrees to make the requirements of Mississippi Miss Hospitality her priority during her term of office. She agrees to arrange her scholastic schedule prior to each term in order to accommodate her responsibilities of office but understands the state office will be cognizant of the importance of her studies. She further agrees to cooperate fully in all publicity, travel arrangements, and itineraries decided upon by the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Advisory Board She agrees that the provided sash and crown will be worn at all events, unless a variation of this is approved by the Advisory Board or their representative. She agrees that she will be actively engaged in proper digital communications and social media on a routine basis as directed by the Program Staff. It is further agreed that the undersigned has the full consent of her parents or legal guardian if she is below the age of 21.
Any matters not expressly covered in this contract or by applicable policies and procedures shall be determined by the Advisory Board of the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program or their duly recognized representative(s).
IN TESTIMONY THEREOF, the undersigned have hereunto set their hands.
2025MississippiMissHospitality:
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MississippiMissHospitalityProgram Director:
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