Casy Walker, a 2007 graduate of McEachern High School,  is now a college Freshman at Georgia State University.  When she entered the Miss Georgia State University pageant  she had no idea she had a chance to win. 

"I could not believe that I won the pageant, I am a Freshman and have few experiences with GSU. However, I am so glad I won!" Casy says.  She not only won the title, she won in 3 out of 4 categories including the Interview, Evening Gown and Talent portions of the contest.

She's been busy since the pageant  making appearances at various school functions.  "I judged our school talent show, I was in the Homecoming parade, and I spoke at the Homecoming ball," said Casy.

Casy has also begun efforts with the Georgia Walk Now for Autism program, which will be sponsoring a walk in April to raise awareness for autism.....a cause that is very near and dear to her heart.  

She looks forward to what she can accomplish because of the Miss Georgia State University title.  "Although as an individual I can do and accomplish many things, having a "title" helps because it represents something. People don't have to ask  my 'credentials' because they are written across the sash and crown!  Winning this pageant has already opened up so many opportunities for me."

Casy is a straight "A" student and a talented dancer.  She has aspirations to be a Speech and Language Pathologist.  She is also very active in her church, Trinity Chapel Church of God. 

Casy tells me, " I am so excited to be in the position of being a role model not just downtown, but here in Powder Springs too.....where I work with children every Sunday at church.  It is so important to me that girls, especially, see that not all 'grown up fashionable women' go to jail or carry million dollar handbags, like so many celebrities.  You don't have to be a movie star or an heiress to be beautiful..... I want them to know that they can amount to so much more than that." 

The Georgia State University pageant is part of the Miss America pageant system, so Casy will be competing in June at the Miss Georgia contest in Columbus.  

I have to admit that I am a little biased.  After all, Casy happens to be my baby sister!  But for anyone that knows her, it is easy to see what the pageant judges saw in this remarkable young woman.  I am so proud of her.

Good luck in June, Casy!  We're all rooting for you!