Chi Sigma chapter of Beta Sigma Phi and Coral Shores High School hosted the 73rd Miss Coral Shores scholarship contest on May 2. Thirteen finalists competed for the title of Miss Coral Shores 2026.
Coral Shores juniors Harlee Beeler, Isla Zlockie, Peyton Mead, Natalie Goodwin, Julia Rusch, Chloe Cummings, Kimberly Kerns, Gabriella Raffanello, Olive Welch, Abbie Andersen, Alexandra Brehm, Mallory Hughes and Katelynn Simpson were selected for their academic excellence. Their next hurdles were writing a spontaneous essay and sitting for a personal interview with a panel of judges: Julia Waterman, retired judge Carol Rose and Jeffrey Evans.
A series of rehearsals led these finalists to showcase their talents and academic achievements before an audience on May 2 at the Performing Arts Center. In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the contestants kicked off the show with an opening number choreographed by Rebecca Bartlett.
Each girl performed a personal showcase. They demonstrated their poise during the evening gown competition and then the top six were challenged to give an answer to “What is a value or belief you hold strongly, and how has it shaped the way you treat others?”
Natalie Goodwin was crowned Miss Coral Shores 2026. The first princess was Mallory Hughes and second princess was Julia Rusch.
Miss Congeniality went to Hughes, chosen by the contestants; and the Miss Judy Hoke award to Alexandra Brehm, selected by the members of Chi Sigma in memory of a sorority member who gave generously of her time and talents to the Miss Coral Shores Contest for more than 25 years.
For 73 years, the Miss Coral Shores Scholarship Contest has been a tradition in the Upper Keys community. The program was created to encourage personal growth, confidence, leadership, community service and showcase their unique talents. Many former contestants have gone on to become leaders, carrying with them the friendships, confidence and life lessons gained through the program.
Chi Sigma thanked Coral Shores High School, the many supporters, parents and their largest contributor, Shell World of Key Largo, for continued investment.
