The City of Minden announced Monday that it has been selected as the host city for the 2025 Miss Louisiana Volunteer state pageant, with the final competition set to take place this November.
Mayor Nick Cox made the announcement during a July 7 press conference. “It’s a great opportunity for us; it’s about our economic growth and it has a lot to do with our civic pride. We’re very excited about showcasing the best parts of Minden,” Cox said.
The multi-day pageant is expected to bring hundreds of visitors to Minden, generating revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses.
“This is a time to celebrate a meaningful partnership, which we believe will be transformative to our city for many years to come,” said Sarah Overall, Minden’s Director of Economic Development. “This partnership is more than just a cultural event, it is a strategic opportunity for economic growth, visibility, and a long-term impact.”
Overall cited the national Miss Volunteer America competition in Jackson, Tennessee — a city similar in size to Minden — which brings an estimated $4 million in annual economic impact.
“Beyond the economic numbers, this event allows us to spotlight the values that we’re proud of: service, education, and leadership,” she said. “Their presence here in our city will inspire our youth and deepen our community engagement.”
The 2025 state-level event will be directed by Kayla Rodriguez, a Minden native and former Miss Minden.
“It’s state level; it’s going to be high production, high quality,” Rodriguez said. “I didn’t choose Minden randomly. I chose it because I know the heart of this town. I’ve lived in this town and I’ve seen what happens when the right opportunities meet the right support, and what that can do for young women.”
The Miss Volunteer program partners with St. Jude Children’s Research Center, and part of the pageant weekend will include a gala fundraiser benefiting the hospital.
Thanks to private sponsorships, the 2026 Miss Louisiana Volunteer titleholder will receive a $15,000 cash scholarship, while the Teen titleholder will be awarded $5,000.
“I am so proud to say that Miss Louisiana Volunteer’s home is Minden,” Rodriguez said.
More information is available at www.misslouisianavolunteer.com or by contacting Kayla Rodriguez at [email protected].