JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — There’s a new Miss Florida in town.
Ribault High School alum and Jacksonville-native Paris Richardson took the crown this weekend, officially winning her ticket to represent the state at Miss America.
Being a proud Double Gator, having earned both her Bachelor of Public Health and Master of Health Administration degrees from the University of Florida, Richardson competed as Miss Gainesville.
“Before I stepped on that stage I prayed the judges would see my heart,” said Richardson over social media. “The late nights. The early mornings. The years of preparation. I asked God to let my effort speak for itself... and He did.”
According to her biography, Richardson is a former UF Cheerleader, UF Hall of Fame Inductee, and a children’s book author. Richardson is also the proud founder of C.R.O.W.N. of Health, a non-profit dedicated to advancing health equity. The acronym stands for Community, Research, Outreach, Wellness, and Nutrition.
“I am so honored to serve the state of Florida and I cannot wait to prepare for Miss America. Let’s get to work Florida!!!”
First Runner Up went to Miss Jacksonville, Anjelica Jones.
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“Jacksonville - thank you for letting me represent you. Thank you to my village for cheering for me on and letting the whole state of Florida hear you!!!!!! I am the luckiest girl in the world,” said Jones over social media.
Read more about the Jaguars cheerleader, JU law student, and voting advocate here.
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