Digital Workshop Packet

TABLE OF CONTENTS MTA TOURISM IMPACT 2024............PAGE 2 2026 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS.........PAGE 3-4 ARRIVAL DETAILS............................PAGE 5 HOUSING DETAILS.......................PAGE 6-7 ROOMMATE ASSIGNMENTS.............PAGE 8 2026 WARDROBE DETAILS...............PAGE 9 NON-COMPETITION WARDROBE....PAGE 10 COMPETITION WARDROBE........PAGE 11-12 2026 OPENING NUMBER WARDROBE..PAGE 13-15 SOCIAL MEDIA COMPETITION.................PAGE 16 SOCIAL MEDIA CALENDAR..................PAGE 17-18 SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY.......................PAGE 19-20 RULES AND JUDGING.....................PAGE 21-22 JUDGING DETAILS..............................PAGE 23 2026 SAMPLE CONTRACT..............................PAGE 24-26 HOTELS & GIFTS..............................PAGE 27 TICKET INFORMATION..............................PAGE 28 2026 PHOTO PACKAGE..............................PAGE 29 SUPPORT LOCAL SPONSORS..............................PAGE 30-31

Mississippi Miss Hospitality 2026 Schedule of Events Sunday July 12 Contestants wear Hometown T-shirt

Monday July 13 Shirt: Miss Hospitality

8:00 AM 8:30 AM

Tuesday July 14 Shirt: Forrest General

Wednesday July 15 Shirt: HBURG

8:00 AM

One-on-One Interviews

8:30 AM

*Contestants will have free time when not being intereviewed.

Pictures will also be taken during this time in the residence hall.

9:00 AM

Rehearsal

9:00 AM

The Hub City Experience

9:30 AM

9-11:00am (departure time: 8:45am)

9:30 AM

9am - 1:30pm (departure time 8:45am)

10:00 AM

Saenger Theater

10:00 AM

Century Park

10:30 AM

Dress: Provided T-shirt & nice shorts

10:30 AM

Dress: Interview suit/dress

11:00 AM

11:00 AM

11:30 AM

11:30 AM

Noon

Noon

8-11:30am

Lunch at Dorms

Contestant Check-in

Lunch at Saenger

12:30 PM

12noon-12:30pm Vann Hall

11:45am-1:00pm

12:30 PM

Lunch will be set up in the common room at the dorms

1:00 PM

Contestant Move-In

Rehearsal

1:00 PM

Rehearsal

Dress: Provided shirt & nice shorts

1:30 PM

1-2:30 pm

1-4:00pm

1:30 PM

2:00 PM

Dress: Hometown T-shirt & nice shorts

Saenger Theater

2:00 PM

Rehearsal

2:30 PM

*Do not unload competition wear* *Travel with parents to the Saenger*

Dress: Same

2:30 PM

Saenger Theater

3:00 PM

Orientation 3pm - 4pm

Media Rehearsal 1:30-2:15pm

3:00 PM

2pm-5pm

3:30 PM

Saenger Theater Advisory Board, Parents and Local Directors

3:30 PM

Snack

4:00 PM

Rehearsal

4:00 PM

Dress: Same

4:30 PM

4-6:00pm

Dress Time

4:30 PM

5:00 PM

Saenger Theater

4:30-6:00pm

5:00 PM

5:30 PM

Dress: Hometown T-shirt & nice shorts

Dress: College shirt/jersey and casual bottoms

6:00 PM

Dinner at Saenger

Depart @ 6:15pm for football stadium - Touchdown Club

6:30 PM

6-6:45pm

7:00 PM

1:00-4:00pm (departure time 12:45pm)

5-6:30 pm

5:30 PM

5-6:45pm

Location: Little Creek Landing

6:00 PM

Residence Hall

Dress: Same from rehearsal

6:30 PM

Residence Hall

Tailgate at the Rock

7:00 PM

Breakfast at Tiffany's Party

6:30-8:00pm (departure time 6:15)

7:30 PM

7-8:30pm (departure time 6:45pm)

8:00 PM

7-9:00pm

Dress: College shirt/jersey and casual bottoms

8:00 PM

Location: The Bottling Company

8:30 PM

8:15pm-Snack

Residence Hall

8:30 PM

Dress: Themed Attire

9:00 PM

Residence Hall

Residence Hall

Dress: Provided T-shirt & nice shorts

Dress Time

Rehearsal

9:30 PM

Saenger Theater

Miss Hospitality Fun Night

7:30 PM

9:00 PM

11:30-12:30

9:30 PM

Easy night to prepare for interviews

Thursday July 16 Shirt: USM 8:00 AM 8:30 AM

Panel Interviews *Contestants will have free time when not being intereviewed.

Pictures will also be taken during this time in the residence hall.

9:00 AM

Friday July 17 Shirt: Coca-Cola Speech Competition *Contestants will have free time when not being intereviewed.

Pictures will also be taken during this time in the residence hall.

Saturday July 18 Shirt: American Graphics 8:00 AM

Packing Time

8:30 AM

Until 9:40am

8-11:30am

9:00 AM

9:30 AM

7:30am-12:30pm

Vann Hall

9:30 AM

10:00 AM

Vann

Dress: Provided T-shirt & black shorts (tucked in)

10:00 AM

Farewell Brunch

10:30 AM

10-11:30am (departure time 9:45am)

11:00 AM

USM's Thad Cochran Center

11:30 AM

Attire: Sunday Best

10:30 AM 11:00 AM

Dress: Interview suit/dress

11:30 AM

Lunch at Dorms

Contestant Lunch

Noon

11:00-12:30pm

11:30-12:30pm (departure time 11:15am)

12:30 PM

Lunch will be set up in the common room at the dorms

Dress: Same

12:30 PM

11:45-12:45 Do not leave the residence hall property/parking lot!

1:00 PM

Rehearsal

Autograph Party

1:00 PM

Rehearsal with Little Misses

1:30 PM

1-4:00pm (departure time 12:45pm)

1-2:00pm (departure time 12:45pm)

1:30 PM

1:00-4:30pm (departure time 12:45pm)

2:00 PM

Saenger Theater

Attire: Same

2:00 PM

Rehearsal with Little Misses

2:30 PM

Saenger Theater

2:30-4:30pm

3:00 PM

Dress: Provided T-shirt & nice shorts

Saenger Theater

3:30 PM

Little Miss & Contestant Social

2:30 PM 3:00 PM

Dress: Provided T-shirt & nice shorts

3:30 PM

Noon

Pack & Move

4:00 PM

Dress & Dinner Time

Dress: Same

4:00 PM

3:45-4:30pm

4:30 PM

4-6:15pm

Dress & Dinner Time

4:30 PM

Dress & Dinner Time

4:30-6:45pm

5:00 PM

4:30-6:45pm

5:00 PM 5:30 PM

Residence Hall

5:30 PM

Residence Hall

Dress: Travel outfit/sundress

6:00 PM

Dress: Travel outfit/sundress

Dress Rehearsal

**Eat dinner in the residence hall**

6:30 PM

**Eat dinner at Century Park**

7:00 PM

6:30-9:30pm (departure time 6:15pm)

Pre-Competition 7-8:00pm (departure time 6:45pm)

7:00 PM

Pre-Competition 7-8:00pm

7:30 PM

Saenger Theater

Dress: Arrival Outfit Saenger

7:30 PM

Dress: Arrival Outfit Saenger Theater

8:00 PM

Dress: Pajama Party

Preliminary Competition

8:00 PM

Final Competition

8:30 PM

plus competition wear

**Eat dinner in the residence hall**

6:00 PM 6:30 PM

9:00 PM 9:30 PM

Residence Hall

8-10pm

8:30 PM

8-10pm

Saenger Theater

9:00 PM

Saenger Theater

Dress: Competition Wear

9:30 PM

Dress: Competition Wear

ARRIVAL DETAILS CHECK IN Registration will be from 12noon-12:30pm on Sunday, July 12 at Vann Hall on the campus of The University of Southern Mississippi. Contestants will need to be unpacked and settled 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 4th Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. Upon arrival, first walk to Vann 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 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 Union Department ATTN: Miss Hospitality 118 College Drive Box #5067 Hattiesburg, MS 39406

FOR UPS/FED-EX PACKAGES Union Department, Attn: Miss Hospitality USM RECEIVING 2601 W. 4th Street Hattiesburg, MS 39401

HOUSING DETAILS Contestants will be provided accommodations with an assigned roommate at one of The University of Southern Mississippi’s newest residence halls, Vann Hall. Below are notes to help prepare for your stay.

•

Bring bedding for a twin XL mattress, including sheets, blankets, and pillows.

•

Each room contains and private shower and toilet with a sink/vanity in the main area of the room.

•

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 coffee pot.

•

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 week-including 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 fantastic host "moms" who will be available throughout the week for guidance and will be very valuable to you!

2026 ROOMMATE ASSIGNMENTS Room 1 1. Booneville, Eleanor Glidewell 2. Neshoba County, Maggie Taylor

Room 12 1. Jones County, Belle Brooks 2. Lawrence County, Makayla Powell

Room 2 1. Clarke County, Emory Baxley 2. New Albany, Landry Kent

Room 13 1. Lamar County, Kelby Wingo 2. Rankin County, Marley Dew

Room 3 1. Covington County, Jacy Mitchell 2. Newton County, Mary Lee Gregory

Room 14 1. Laurel, Sydnie Hollingshead 2. Starkville, Presley Bassett

Room 4 1. Ellisville, Annie Byrd 2. Pascagoula, Melany Carrasco

Room 15 1. Stone County, Kyla Galloway 2. Natchez, Ainsley Dupre

Room 5 1. Forrest County, Alison Cross 2. Pearl River County, Anna Grace Amacker

Room 16 1. Leakesville, Jacie Ethridge 2. Sumrall, Reese Johnson

Room 6 1. George County, Alivia Stringer 2. Petal, Lauren Shows

Room 17 1. Lowndes County, Ava Logan 2. Tate County, Mary Lauren Lane

Room 7 1. Greene County, Riley Byrd 2. Pike County, Carmen Dominguez

Room 18 1. Magee, Avery Vanderford 2. Walthall County, Kyndal Blackwell

Room 8 1. Hattiesburg, Alex Green 2. Pontotoc, Josie Warren

Room 19 1. Marion County, Madelyn McKenzie 2. Wayne County, Lily Cooley

Room 9 1. Jackson, Jaleah Gray 2. Quitman, Ava Parker

Room 20 1. Mendenhall, Chloe Teasley 2. West Point, Hannah McKee

Room 10 1. Jackson County, Brittny Anderson 2. Scott County, Allee Anderson

Room 21 1. Meridian, Milan Greer 2. Wiggins, Makayla Fowler

Room 11 1. Jeff Davis County, Asjah Hathorn 2. Ridgeland, Sarah Hart

Room 22 1. Smith County, Anistyn Ivy 2. Winston County, Marley Lowrey

*NUT ALLERGY FRIENDLY ROOMS

COMPETITION WARDROBE 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.

ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE OUTFIT

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 dress, 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

This dress/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. Contestants will be informed of the required dress/outfit color details in late spring.

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.

COMPETITION WARDROBE (CON.) COMMERCIAL COMPETITION

This will be a solid black cocktail dress. 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.

EVENING GOWN 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 wil lbe required to change if shorts are deemed too short at any point of competition week.

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 that you’re comfortable and confident wearing!

SOCIAL MEDIA COMPETITON ACTIVITIES We’re excited to resume the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Social Media Competition in 2026! 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 1, 2026 End Date: July 18, 2026 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 • Must contain tags #MSHosp2026 and #MSGoodwill 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 2026 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

31

1

WEDNESDAY

Introduce yourself and the social media contest to your audience

7

THURSDAY

2

3

9

10

#TBT - Local Crowning (At-large talk about finding out you were selected)

16

11

12

13

22

MS Monday

23

Ticket Tuesday

29

17

19

20

24

26

27

One month until competition week!

18

Welcome Wednesday: Highlight a Hometown Attraction

Introduce your Little Miss

28

6

#TBT - What's something you've enjoyed as a local titleholder?

15

21

SATURDAY

5

Spotlight: Local Director (At-large feature someone assisting you)

8

14

FRIDAY

4

Hometown Highlight

25

Hometown Highlight

30

MS Monday

HASHTAGS: #MSHosp2026 and #MSGoodwill in EVERY post to compete for scholarship.

Small Business Saturday Feature

JULY 2026 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

1

2

Competition Prep Update: Update on what you are doing to prepare for Miss Hospitality

5

6

7

12 Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: VisitHBURG (#visithburg + tag)

13 Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: Southern Miss (#SMTTT + tag)

14 Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: Forrest General Hospital (tag)

9

10

11

Thank your community & advertisers

15 Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: City of Hattiesburg (tag)

4

Hometown Highlight

8 Presenter Spotlight: Visit Mississippi (#visitms + tag)

MS Monday

SATURDAY

3

One day until check-in

16 Daily Recap + Presenter Spotlight: Saenger Theater (#saengershows + tag)

17

Competition Night 1

HASHTAGS: #MSHosp2026 and #MSGoodwill in EVERY post to compete for scholarship.

NOTES:

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.

18

Competition Night 2

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY Mississippi Miss Hospitality’s marketing strategies include a highly visible social media presence in multiple markets. To fully capture and measure all conversations about the program, local contestant updates, and to keep up with the reigning Mississippi Miss Hospitality, the hashtags #MSHosp2026 and #ExploreMS will be included in official communication.

At Contestant Workshop, each titleholder will receive details about a Social Media Scholarship, sponsored by the Mississippi Tourism Association. However, that doesn’t mean local social media promotions cannot begin before May! The Mississippi Miss Hospitality program encourages the use of social media to develop the program’s platforms of promoting economic development and tourism in titleholder communities.

Contestants are personally responsible for all content they publish online. Additionally, contestants should adhere to the following guidelines when posting on social media about their role as Miss Hospitality or on official accounts: Follow lawful and ethical practices at all times.

Avoid the display of any type of sexually explicit or discriminatory content (as it pertains to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, age, sexual orientation, sexual identity, political beliefs, or disability,) including but not limited to: Degrading, hateful, derogatory, or defamatory materials Indecent or sexually explicit communications or images Abusive language Participation in spreading unsubstantiated rumors or false information should be avoided. Strive to speak the truth. If you’re uncertain about the source or validity of information, saying nothing is the best choice.

Online behaviors should reflect the same standards of honesty, respect, and consideration exhibited in face-to-face communication.

Negative comments or information about the Mississippi Miss Hospitality program, its sponsors, contestants, staff, volunteers, or supporters is a violation of this policy.

Prior to posting photographs, thought should be given as to whether the images reflect professionalism and the values of the Mississippi Miss Hospitality program. Photos and information relating to alcohol, tobacco use, vaping, or illegal activities must be avoided.

If a titleholder finds negative information online about themselves, the Mississippi Miss Hospitality program, or fellow contestants, they shall not respond or engage and should notify their local director and the State Office immediately.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY When posting on social media, you are required to: Use good judgment. Do your words and images portray you, the program, your community, and the state of Mississippi in a professional and favorable manner?

Provide value. Ensure that all content is thoughtful and relevant.

Be an ambassador. Use the internet for good. Promote your platform, engage your public, and represent the Mississippi Miss Hospitality program well.

Failure to Follow Guidelines Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action. The Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program reserves the right to review contestants’ and titleholders’ public social media activity at any time to ensure adherence to these standards.

Depending on the nature or severity of the violation, the following actions may be taken: 1. Written Warning – Notification outlining the violation and required corrective action.

2. Suspension – Temporary suspension of privileges, appearances, or participation in program activities.

3. Dismissal – Immediate removal from the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program and/or disqualification from future participation.

Always remember to tag the official Mississippi Miss Hospitality social media accounts when possible and ensure your posts are public so we can share them, too!

77TH ANNUAL COMPETITION · JULY 17 & 18, 2026 · HATTIESBURG, MS

A SCHOLARSHIP TRADITION

Established in 1949 under Governor Fielding Wright and the Mississippi Legislature, the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition champions the state’s tourism and economic development sectors while supporting Mississippi’s best and brightest young women through a robust scholarship program.

Designed for representatives ages 18 to 24, the program continues a longstanding tradition of beauty and grace while celebrating intelligent and sincere qualities of today’s modern woman.

Local contestants serve a full year as their community’s spokesperson, promoting visitation and development in their hometown. Contestants leave the program with lifelong friendships, communication and interview skills, public speaking tools, selfconfidence, and a better understanding of their home state.

The young lady crowned the state’s Miss Hospitality serves as Mississippi’s official Goodwill Ambassador, traveling regionally and nationally to promote the Hospitality State and share Her story.

LOCAL REPRESENTATION Young women may be selected to represent their community in the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition through one of the following:

Formal Competition

Contestants will compete in Interview, Community Commercial, On-Stage Interview, and Evening Gown. Local Director required.

Hospitality Tea Competition

Contestants will be judged in Interview and Community Commercial.

Local Director required.

Appointment

In the event there is only one entry for a city or county, the entrant may be appointed by the Local Director as that area’s Miss Hospitality.

At-Large

This is an option for communities without a Local Director. Those interested in competing may contact the State Office to apply.

Applications will be evaluated by a published scoring criterion.

Local Directors are to notify State Competition office with details about the local Miss Hospitality within one week of selection or by March 2, 2026.

SCHOLARSHIPS & PRIZES Contestants are eligible for more than $100,000 in scholarships and prizes by participation in the state competition, including cash and collegegranted funds. The next Mississippi Miss Hospitality will receive a $25,000 prize package.

Mississippi Miss Hospitality partners with colleges and universities across the state to provide opportunities for contestants to further their education.

The contestant crowned the state title holder must attend school in Mississippi and enroll in a maximum of 15 credit hours per semester during her reign. Scholarships and prizes will be awarded incrementally based on successful completion of appearance and title requirements.

CONTESTANT REQUIREMENTS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Must be a resident of Mississippi.

Must represent her hometown, not the city where attending college.

Must attend the entirety of State Competition.

Must be a high school graduate who attends or plans to attend college.

Must be between the ages of 18 and 24 by the first day of judging, which begins on Wednesday of competition week.

6. Must have never been married, pregnant, or have children.

7. Must be in good health and able to physically and mentally complete rigorous activities of their reign and competition week without limitation.

8. Must not hold or pursue a conflicting title from the date she is crowned as a local Miss Hospitality through the conclusion of the State Competition or the end of her reign if crowned Mississippi’s Miss Hospitality.

9. Must maintain a minimum 2.5 scholastic average (on a 4.0 system) with a current transcript provided. If crowned the state title holder, contestant must arrange a class schedule to be no more than 15 hours per semester 10. Must be available for regular appearances (minimum monthly), weekly social media engagement, and other title requirements if crowned state title holder.

11. May participate on the state level a maximum of two times, with a mandatory 1-year minimum of no participation following her first competition.

ST STA ATE COMPETITION AND JUDGING

STATE COMPETITION RULES

One-on-One Interview Competition

1. Local contestants must attend Contestant Workshop on May 30, 2026 in Hattiesburg. Staggered arrival times will be assigned, and official headshots will be taken during this event. In the case of a conflict, please contact the State Office immediately. Local contestants must attend the entirety of competition in Hattiesburg the week of July 12 - 18, 2026.

Housing, transportation, and an exciting line-up of events will be included.

This competition will take place Wednesday during competition week. Each judge will meet individually with each contestant for three minutes. 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 contestant. An interview suit or dress shall be worn.

Panel Interview Competition The Panel Interview is a five minute judged session on Thursday during 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.

Mississippi Speech Competition Each contestant will present an original, memorized 90-second speech based on the question “How would you promote our state to a visitor of Mississippi?” No visual aids may be used. Contestants will present the speech before judges Friday morning.

Community Commercial Competition Contestants will model a black cocktail dress of their choice. In addition to modeling the dress on-stage, contestants will present an original 20-second commercial on important aspects of their city or county, promoting their hometowns to all in attendance.

When selecting a dress, contestants should consider the production number performed on stage.

Evening Gown Competition

2. Each contestant must submit her Official Competition Packet, including typed application, medical release form, official transcript, 50-word typed biography, and ad sales and components in a single PDF along with a registration fee of $350 by April 23, 2026. A $50 late fee will be charged for packets received after this date.

3. Contestants must sell at least four (4) full pages of ads in the Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program Book.

4. If a contestant is currently enrolled in an out-of-state college or university and wins the State Competition, she must immediately enroll in a college or university in Mississippi. A scholarship will be provided.

5. Contestants must complete their own hair and make-up at State Competition. There will be no one allowed in the residence hall or backstage before competition.

6. Contestants must appoint a Little Miss Hospitality to serve alongside her during her reign and provide the Little Miss’ information to the State Office by March 13, 2026.

Contestants will model an evening gown of any color. During the Evening Gown Competition on Saturday night, the Top 10 will be asked an on-stage question by the emcees, which will be scored separately from the Evening Gown Competition. When selecting a dress, contestants should consider the production number performed on stage.

SCORING

Friday Night Preliminary Scoring One-on-One Interview* Panel Interview* Mississippi Speech* Community Commercial Evening Gown TOTAL

15% 25% 20% 20% 20% 100%

Saturday Night Final Competition Panel Interview** Mississippi Speech** Community Commercial Evening Gown On-Stage Interview TOTAL

*Denotes scoring brought forward for preliminary night of competition. **Denotes score brought forward for final night of competition.

Other awards include: Top 3 Speech, Top Ad Sales, Spirit of Miss Hospitality, Most Photogenic, Community Engagement, and Social Media Challenge.

25% 20% 20% 20% 15% 100%

LITTLE MISS HOSPIT HOSPITALITY ALITY The Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition added a new element in 2018: Little Miss Hospitality. The Little Miss program is designed for Miss Hospitality contestants to serve as mentors to young girls in their communities, who are ages 6-10 years old. Upon being crowned a local representative, each contestant will choose a Little Miss from her hometown or county to share her journey.

The registration fee for each Little Miss Hospitality is $250, which should be provided by the Little Miss’ family and/or a local sponsor. Little Misses must also sell a minimum of one full page ad. Little Miss packets and fees are due by May 4, 2026. Little Miss Hospitalities are required to be in Hattiesburg on July 17 & 18, 2026 for on-stage programming and events. They are asked to wear a white tea-length gown on stage (must be mid-calf to knee length).

If a Little Miss Hospitality cannot be identified in the area represented by a local Miss Hospitality, contestants may select a young girl from other areas of the state. Contact the State Office with any questions.

MISSHOSPITALITY.COM

| P.O. BOX 1103, HATTIESBURG, MS 39403 | MSHOSP@VISITHBURG.ORG

JUDGING DETAILS AREAS OF COMPETITION 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 on-stage 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.

2026 Mississippi Miss Hospitality 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 The 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 reside 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 loss 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.

2026 Mississippi Miss Hospitality: Name (print):

_________________________________________________________

Name (signature): __________________________________________________________ Date:

__________________________________________________________

Mississippi Miss Hospitality Program Director: Name (print):

________________________________________________________

Name (signature): ________________________________________________________ Date:

________________________________________________________

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION HOST HOTELS 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.

Hilton Garden Inn $144 + tax. Breakfast +$12.95 133 Plaza Drive Hattiesburg, MS 39402 (601) 261-3770 Ext. 490 Booking Link

DoubleTree by Hilton $150 + tax including breakfast 10 Gateway Drive Hattiesburg, MS 39402 (601) 296-0302

Hampton Inn $145 +tax including breakfast 120 Plaza Drive Hattiesburg, MS 39402 (601) 268-0606 Booking Link

OFFICIAL FLORIST 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.

2026 TICKET INFORMATION There are a limited number of seats being sold for the 2026 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 pre-sale using code MMH26 will open on Monday, June 8 at 9am for contestant and Little Miss families and supporters. Tickets will not be announced to the public until Monday, June 15 to allow your supporters priority seating. Do not publicly post this code anywhere.

Tickets must be purchased separately for each competition night, they are $40 each for premium reserved seating and $35 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.

2026 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 behindthe-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 10, 2026.

PURCHASE DETAILS • All photo packages will be sold exclusively by the Mississippi Miss Hospitality State Office.

• Packages are $175 and must be purchased here by July 11, 2026 or by following the QR code below.