January 22, 2024
Pearl River Community College student and member of the award-winning Rodeo Team, Emma Watts, was recently crowned as Miss Dixie National. By promoting agriculture and the livestock industry in Mississippi and the region, Miss Dixie National becomes an ambassador for these crucial sectors.
Watts has been competing in rodeo since the age of nine and was the Alabama High School Rodeo Queen for three years. She also competed at the National High School Rodeo Finals in Lincoln, Nebraska, placing fifth in the nation.
From St. Stephens, Alabama, Watts is a sophomore at PRCC studying business. She found it natural to continue in the sport she loves as part of the Rodeo Team at The River.
“Emma embodies kindness and hard work; a dedicated individual who attends all practices,” said PRCC Rodeo Coach Frank Graves. “She consistently gives 100% to the team.
“With half of our season still ahead, including the upcoming PRCC Rodeo in March, Emma will continue to be a valuable competitor with the team.”
After PRCC, Watts plans to earn a degree in Agriculture Communication and Business.
“I have truly enjoyed my time here at PRCC,” said Watts. “I have been blessed with some of the best teachers who have worked tirelessly to help me succeed not only in my classes but in life as well!”
Attending several rodeos had Watts missing the privilege of carrying the American Flag around the arena as a rodeo queen. The epiphany prompted her to enter the Miss Dixie National Rodeo Queen competition.
“I missed it so much,” said Watts. “I knew there wouldn’t be anything better than having the privilege to represent the best rodeo on this side of the Mississippi River!”
Launched in 1965, the Dixie National Rodeo and Livestock Show is one of the largest professional rodeos east of the Mississippi River. The Dixie National Rodeo takes place Friday, February 10, through Sunday, February 12, and Wednesday, February 15, through Saturday, February 18, in the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson. The 2024 Dixie National Parade will be held on Saturday, February 10th.
Miss Dixie National contestants were awarded points in the major categories of Appearance, Personality, Horsemanship, and Photogenic, as well as knowledge, presentation, and content and delivery.
As Miss Dixie National, Watts will attend all Dixie National rodeo performances, participate in the annual parade, and engage in promotional activities at hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. She is expected to embody moral values, uphold Christian principles, and diligently serve as an ambassador and role model throughout her reign.
For the latest news on Pearl River Community College, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (@PRCC_Wildcats), Instagram (PRCCWILDCATS), Facebook (@PRCCMKTG), and TikTok (@prcc_wildcats).
Article by Laura O’Neill. Photos from Emma Watts, Miss Dixie National Royalty, and PRCC Athletics.
