A new Mississippi Miss Hospitality was crowned over the weekend in Hattiesburg.
Landry Kent of New Albany won the title Saturday night at the Historic Saenger Theater after a weeklong competition featuring interviews, speeches, on-stage presentations, and an evening gown competition. Kent was selected from a field of 43 contestants competing for the state title.
Now in its 77th year, the Mississippi Miss Hospitality program describes the titleholder as “the state’s goodwill ambassador for economic development and tourism.” During her yearlong reign, Kent will travel throughout Mississippi to participate in events highlighting the state’s tourism attractions, industries, and communities.
“It has been an honor to represent my hometown, the city of New Albany, this week,” Kent said. “I’m so excited and blessed to be able to represent the state of Mississippi this year. I can’t wait.”
Kent, 19, is a freshman at Itawamba Community College and plans to attend Mississippi State University to pursue a communications degree with an emphasis in public relations. She is an honors student and president of the ICC Indian Delegates, and she hosts ICC Athletics’ “What a Play Wednesday” weekly segment.
Kent’s prize package is valued at more than $30,000, including the inaugural Bonnie Warren Hospitality Scholarship, a $10,000 cash prize toward her college education.
The top five contestants were:
- Landry Kent, New Albany – Mississippi Miss Hospitality 2026
- Melany Carrasco, Pascagoula – First Alternate
- Anistyn Ivy, Smith County – Second Alternate
- Presley Bassett, Starkville – Third Alternate
- Anna Grace Amacker, Pearl River County – Fourth Alternate
Along with the competition, contestants participated in service projects, city tours, team-building activities and leadership events throughout the week.
“The Mississippi Miss Hospitality reign is a year-long mission of service, storytelling, and state pride,” program director Kristen Brock explained. “Landry will spend her next year visiting communities, championing Mississippi’s tourism and economic assets, and serving as our ambassador.”
Kent will also be joined at official events by Mississippi’s Little Miss Hospitality, Lacy Ruth Swords, a 9-year-old from New Albany who was selected to serve alongside her during her reign.
The Mississippi Miss Hospitality program was established in 1949 by the Mississippi Legislature under Gov. Fielding Wright.