JACKSON, Tennessee – Izzy Karns, representing Mississippi, was crowned Miss Teen Volunteer America 2026 on Saturday, March 8, at the Carl Perkins Civic Center in Jackson, Tennessee.
The nationwide service-oriented scholarship competition brought together 50 outstanding teens from across the country, showcasing their glamour, talent, fitness, interview skills, and passion for volunteerism.
Miss Teen Volunteer America 2025 Anna Grace Loudenbeck passed the crown to Karns in an emotional ceremony, marking a milestone victory as Mississippi’s first-ever teen national titleholder.
Karns, an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Southern Mississippi, impressed judges throughout the week, winning the preliminary fitness and wellness competition on March 6 and delivering a powerful vocal performance of “Almost There” from The Princess and the Frog during the talent portion.
As Miss Teen Volunteer America 2026, Karns becomes a National Spokesperson for the organization’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a National Partner with The Salvation Army. In addition, she was awarded a $10,000 educational scholarship along with other exclusive opportunities as part of her reign.
Following her victory, Karns shared her overwhelming gratitude and excitement:
“My life is forever changed because I am your new Miss Teen Volunteer America!
Mississippi, we did it! I am overwhelmed with gratitude, joy, and excitement for the year ahead. This is a testament to God’s grace and perfect timing. I’m ready to get to work and walk through this season of abundance in my life!”
Allison DeMarcus, founder & CEO of the Miss Volunteer America Pageant System, praised this year’s competition and the remarkable young women who participated: “We had an incredible class of outstanding state titleholders who traveled to Jackson to compete for the national crown. I know that Izzy will represent us so well this coming year, and I look forward to seeing her succeed. I was in awe of the intelligence, talent, and stage presence of the teens who competed this week. There are so many magnificent state titleholders who will continue to promote their community service initiatives and our program throughout the rest of their reign in their respective states.”
Karns is a dedicated leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for community service, balancing her role as a full-time student with her many philanthropic and business ventures. She is the founder of Choose Rescue, an organization that has raised over $21,000 for animal shelters and hosted multiple adoption events. She is also the owner of Gimme Sugar Cookies, an event
coordinator for Least of These Animal Rescue, and the CEO of Let’s Get Social, a social media branding and content management company.
Her impact as Miss Mississippi Teen Volunteer 2024 has been statewide, with impressive accomplishments including:
- 76,550 Mississippians reached through her platform
- 34 sponsor visits
- 13 media interviews
- Over 1,000 hours of community service invested in organizations like Open Doors Theatre, We Will Go Ministries, The Glory House, Kids Hub Child Advocacy, and more
As a spokesperson for the Mississippi Highway Patrol D.R.I.V.E. Campaign, Karns:
- Hosted 28 presentations reaching 3,740 students
- Launched the D.R.I.V.E. Pledge, securing 3,940 signatures from individuals pledging to be responsible drivers
Her commitment to The Salvation Army includes:
- Founding “Doing the Most Good Day” in Mississippi, recognized annually on December 14th
- Volunteering over 43.5 hours through bell ringing, mentorship events, facility visits, supply drives, and fundraising efforts
Her work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital includes:
- Touring the hospital as a St. Jude Leadership Society member
- Raising over $1,000 for the Nashville St. Jude Walk/Run
Alongside Karns’ victory, several contestants were recognized for their outstanding performances throughout the competition. Miss North Carolina Teen Volunteer, Hayden Pearson, was named first runner-up, followed by Miss Alabama Teen Volunteer, Lois Ann Wester, as second runner-up. Miss Nebraska Teen Volunteer, Abi Howard, who also won the preliminary talent award, placed third runner-up, while Miss New York Teen Volunteer, Addie Rose Castleberry, earned fourth runner-up along with the preliminary fitness and wellness award.
