Jessie Ward Interview
Miss Arkansas 2001 & Top 10 Finalist @ Miss America 2002
Why did you decide to compete in the Miss Texarkana pageant?
I decided to compete simply because of scholarship and personal growth opportunities. It was an incredible experience that has paid dividends larger than I ever planned. I am so thankful for the program and for God giving me the opportunity to see beyond myself.
Tell us about your platform, "Prevention of School Violence".
This was near and dear to me in so many ways. After the shootings in Arkansas schools, I found a true conviction to speak out and promote ways to prevent this from happening again.
What was going through your head when you were called into the top 15 and then into the top 10?
That moment was a moment of humble validation that I had truly given my preparation everything I had to offer. It's true and pure excitement that I will never forget.
What would be your most memorable moment as Miss Arkansas?
Probably the most memorable for me was the events surrounding the September 11th tragedy. We were already in Atlantic City preparing for Miss America week. It was truly a defining moment in my year. I also have very vivid memories of my school programs and how incredible that was to be able to advocate for the my platform and the Miss America program.
How does a typical day go for you as the Executive Director for the Miss Arkansas pageant?
As the ED, there is a significant amount of time managing the "business" of the pageant. I love our volunteers and have a completely different appreciation for the program and our our Miss Arkansas family.
What have you been up to since your reign as Miss Arkansas ended?
Since Miss Arkansas, I have been working for Eli Lilly and Co. as a Cardiovascular Specialty Sales Rep for 7 years. I LOVE my job!
I decided to compete simply because of scholarship and personal growth opportunities. It was an incredible experience that has paid dividends larger than I ever planned. I am so thankful for the program and for God giving me the opportunity to see beyond myself.
Tell us about your platform, "Prevention of School Violence".
This was near and dear to me in so many ways. After the shootings in Arkansas schools, I found a true conviction to speak out and promote ways to prevent this from happening again.
What was going through your head when you were called into the top 15 and then into the top 10?
That moment was a moment of humble validation that I had truly given my preparation everything I had to offer. It's true and pure excitement that I will never forget.
What would be your most memorable moment as Miss Arkansas?
Probably the most memorable for me was the events surrounding the September 11th tragedy. We were already in Atlantic City preparing for Miss America week. It was truly a defining moment in my year. I also have very vivid memories of my school programs and how incredible that was to be able to advocate for the my platform and the Miss America program.
How does a typical day go for you as the Executive Director for the Miss Arkansas pageant?
As the ED, there is a significant amount of time managing the "business" of the pageant. I love our volunteers and have a completely different appreciation for the program and our our Miss Arkansas family.
What have you been up to since your reign as Miss Arkansas ended?
Since Miss Arkansas, I have been working for Eli Lilly and Co. as a Cardiovascular Specialty Sales Rep for 7 years. I LOVE my job!