A Monticello teen is competing today for the Miss Mississippi Teen USA crown.

Addison “Addie” Carver, competing as Miss Spirit of Volunteer Teen USA,  joins more than 20 young women at the Pearl River Resort competing for the title.

Finals for the competition start at 4 p.m. Saturday and can be watched here. 

In 2023, Carver was crowned runner-up in the Miss Mississippi Teen USA competition, behind Natchez resident Claire Ulmer.

“I am still in utter awe of this opportunity and I am feeling so at peace walking into this weekend knowing that I have prepared, worked hard, and have truly become the best version of myself in the process,” Carver wrote in social media posts Friday. “One year ago today, I stood hand in hand with (Claire Ulmer) on the same stage that I will be walking on tomorrow. This past year in preparation, I’ve experienced reflection, self-love, gratitude, and more than anything … I’ve experienced growth. I pray that my hard work and growth is visibly seen this year! I am beyond ready for this weekend and grateful for a God that has my path in His hands. Let’s do this!!!”

Carver, a junior at Lawrence County High School, is the daughter of Dwayne and Kristi Carney and the late Chuck Carver.

The competition is produced by Greenwood Productions Inc.