Gerard to compete at Miss Illinois competition
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Miss Quincy 2023 Shelby Rose and Miss Quincy’s Teen Molly Gerard are competing for the prestigious titles of Miss Illinois and Miss Illinois’ Teen June 6-10 in Marion. Rose and Gerard were crowned on January 7, at Quincy Community Theatre.
Gerard is the 15-year-old daughter of Brandon and Miranda Gerard of Pittsfield. She will compete in lifestyle and fitness, evening wear, on-stage question, interview, and talent at the Miss Illinois’ Teen competition. Gerard will be performing a lyrical dance for her talent.
“Interview is my favorite phase of competition because I’m able to explain to the judges the work I’ve accomplished with my platform and my future goals,” said Gerard. “It allows me to personally connect with them, which I love. I’m so thankful for what the Miss America system has offered me so far and I’m more than ready to represent my community to my fullest.”
Gerard is a junior at Pittsfield High School. Her goal is to graduate high school with honors and attend The University of Alabama and major in school psychology. She is a member of FFA and dances at The Studio in Pittsfield.
Through her social impact initiative, Plant a Seed – Educating the Youth on the Importance of Agriculture, Gerard has partnered with Ag in the Classroom and teaches lessons in elementary schools throughout the area.
“I am so passionate about my platform because I grew up on a farm and both of my parents work in the agriculture industry,” Gerard said. “Unfortunately, I have witnessed a lack of agriculture literacy among my peers and it is my goal to change that. My plan is to bridge the gap between America’s producers and consumers. With the agricultural state of Illinois supporting me as Miss Illinois’ Teen, we can make it happen.”
The winner of Miss Illinois’ Teen will be selected the evening of June 9, 2023. She will go on to compete for the title of Miss America’s Teen, which will be held in conjunction with Miss America.
“To prepare for the competition, I have done multiple mock interviews and researched topics related to my community service initiative, politics, and the state of Illinois,” said Gerard. “I have also spent a lot of time in the dance studio and walked around everywhere in my heels! It’s a lot of work, but I know it will all pay off.”
