On Sept. 16, 2017, at St. Joseph High School, the Miss Southwest Michigan Pageant crowned its new 2018 title holders.

Earning the title of Miss Sunset Coast 2018 is Katlynn Kennedy, of Buchanan. Kennedy is the daughter of Patrick and Christine Kennedy.

The 22-year-old is a graduate of St. Mary’s College, and currently in graduate school at Notre Dame, where she is looking to obtain her master’s degree in management.

For her talent, Kennedy danced a lyrical dance to “That’s Kate from the Wild Party.” Kennedy’s platform is “Achievement through adversity: advocating for at risk youth.”

Kennedy received a scholarship and a prize package valued more than $1,500. Kennedy also won the interview award chosen by the judges.

The title of Miss Sunset Coast is open to all young women from across the State of Michigan. Nine young women competed for the title of Miss Sunset Coast during this year’s pageant.

Receiving the title of Miss Sunset Coast Outstanding Teen 2018 was Aly Wilson, of Stevensville.  Wilson is a 16-year-old junior at Lakeshore High School. Her parents are Don and Kerry Wilson.

For her talent performance, Wilson sang “Good night Moon” by Eric Whitaker.

Six young women competed for the title of Miss Sunset Coast Outstanding Teen. Wilson will represent Miss Sunset Coast in June 2018 at the state finals.

Phases of competition for contestants included a private interview, talent, lifestyle, fitness and an onstage question.

Miss Southwest and Teen title holders are the only authorized representatives from southwest Michigan to go on to compete in June at the state level for Miss Michigan.

Miss Michigan Heather Kendrick and Adam Smego served as mistress and master of ceremonies for the pageant.

If any area schools or organizations would like the newly crowned Miss Sunset Coast or Miss Sunset Coast Outstanding Teen to present their platform or perform their talent, please contact the Blossomtime Office at office@blossomtimefestival.org or by phone (269) 982-8016. There is not an appearance fee.

The Miss Southwest Michigan Pageant program was started in 1973 with Laura Mansfields placing third runner up to Miss Michigan. The Miss Southwest Michigan Pageant is the only licensed affiliate in Berrien County to be a part of the Miss America Organization and recognized using the Miss Southwest Pageant name.

Since starting in 1973, the program has had many executive directors. Currently serving the role are Executive Directors Anna Abdelnour and Jeffry Alisch.