HOPKINSVILLE, KY − The Clarksville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. marked the 40th anniversary of its Debutante Program with a grand Cotillion at the James E. Bruce Convention Center. The occasion honored six exceptional young women, known as the “Pearls of Intellect,” for their academic achievements, leadership and commitment to service.
The evening’s highlight was the crowning of the 2025 Debutante Queen, Jasmine Pitts of Fort Campbell High School. Kayden Redmond earned the title of First Runner-Up, while Olivia Pierce was named Second Runner-Up. These young women exemplified the mission of the Debutante Program, which nurtures personal development, scholarship, and cultural awareness.
To honor the milestone, Minister Stephanie Jenkins presented a joint proclamation on behalf of the City and County Mayors, officially declaring April 12 as Delta Debutante Day. Additional proclamations were presented by Rep. Ronnie Glynn, District 67, and Montgomery County Trustee Kimberly Wiggins. Vester Carney, President of the Benevolent Lodge #210, was also in attendance to support the celebration.
The program extends far beyond the Cotillion, engaging participants in a transformative experience that includes monthly workshops on education, scholarships, financial literacy, etiquette, physical and mental health, and culminates in a Rites of Passage Ceremony held each February in honor of Black History Month. These workshops not only prepare the debutantes for the Cotillion but equip them with lifelong skills for success.
Reflecting on the program’s significance, Soror Karissa Poe, Co-Chair, shared: “This year, we proudly celebrated the 40th anniversary of our Debutante Program-an empowering journey that included life skills and educational workshops, community service, mentorship, and peer engagement. Our young ladies embraced the opportunity to raise scholarship funds and grow as leaders. The season culminated in a beautiful Cotillion, where scholarships were awarded and grace met purpose on one unforgettable night.”
Chair of the program, Jetaun Spann-Walker, added: “Marking our Ruby anniversary, the 40th Debutante Cotillion was not only a milestone for the chapter but a testament to enduring elegance, introducing a new class of accomplished young women carrying forward a legacy of celebration and community.” This year’s celebration also honored legacy and tradition by spotlighting past Debutante Queens, representing every decade since the program’s inception. The presence of these alumnae underscored the lasting impact of the Debutante Program, and the enduring bonds formed through sisterhood and service.
The event was graced by members of the Clarksville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, supportive families, friends, and community leaders. Youth members of Delta Academy and GEMS generously volunteered, assisting the contestants throughout the evening and demonstrating the chapter’s commitment to cultivating leadership across generations.