Rachel Hodson named National American Miss Illinois state finalist

Rachel Hodson, 15, has been chosen as a state finalist in the Illinois National American Miss Pageant to be held Aug. 2-3 at the Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles.

The National American Miss pageants are held for girls, age 4-18, and have five different age divisions. Rachel will be participating in the Junior Teen age division, along with other outstanding young ladies from across the great state of Illinois.

The National American Miss Pageants' mission is to encourage America's future leaders and equip them with valuable life skills. The pageant is based on inner-beauty, poise, presentation and communication skills. Emphasis is put on the importance of developing self-confidence, learning good sportsmanship as well as setting and achieving personal goals.

Her activities include playing the flute in marching band, competing on her school's academic team and serving as student council president. She was selected to represent Central High School in the math competition, presented with the American Legion award and honored at the Rotary Club of Elgin Awards Day Luncheon for a straight "A" Report Card. Her hobbies include working with children at YMCA Camp Duncan, scuba diving, hiking, sculpting in her art class and attending theatrical productions. Above all, Rachel loves spending time with her family and thanks them for supporting her in all of her ventures.