Journey to Farewell
Shailyn Croom, 2023 Miss Plus America
As Miss Plus America 2023, I’ve embrace the community, form friendships, and showcase my talents authentically in this competition. This remarkable experience wouldn’t have been achievable without the steadfast support of those who have been there for me every step of the way. To my dear friends, your laughter, late-night talks, and endless support mean the world to me. To my cherished family, your love has been my beacon, your faith in me my rock. I am forever thankful for your place in my life. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the supporters of my platform, EntreprenHER. These small owned women businesses have been instrumental in providing women with the knowledge, access, and network needed to scale successful businesses. I want to extend a special thank you to Suzie’s Soulhouse, Seaux & Seaux The Curvy Boutique, The Beautiful Foundation, Spotlight Dance Company, Southern Grazing Board, Destiny Perkins Hair, Reminiscence Palace LLC, Clara’s Little Lambs, and Miesha Shaw Photography for their invaluable support on my journey to Miss Plus America. Among all the programs, the Boss Babe Brunch holds a special place in my heart as it brought together aspiring business women with mentors. Thank you once again to all the wonderful women-owned businesses that have played a significant role in my journey. To the Miss Plus America Organization, thank you for providing me with this illustrious experience. This platform has allowed me to connect with a community of like-minded women who celebrate diversity and embrace their individuality. The friendships I have made and the lessons I have learned will stay with me forever. Thank you to Dr. Meaghan Dickerson, Melissa Stamper, and Rachel Roberts. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to J.J. Smith of Winner Views. J.J., your expertise and vision have been instrumental in sharing my story with the world. To my successor, the path ahead will require hard work, dedication, and resilience! Embrace every moment, for this year will be filled with incredible experiences that will shape you in ways you cannot yet imagine. Cherish the journey, and remember that you are a beacon of inspiration for others! To my esteemed members of the 2023 Royal Court, our current task may be finished, but the adventure is far from over. We will step down from our positions with both the crown and the duty of upholding the values and traditions we so dearly cherish. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the community, always striving to make a positive impact. The future is bright, and together, we will continue to build a legacy of excellence and compassion. The year that has just passed has truly been incredible. From public appearances, heartfelt discussions, to community service, my journey as Miss Plus America 2023 has brought enrichment and new perspectives into my life. As a reminder, always keep in mind the famous saying, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.”
Shamone Garcia, 2023 Ms. Plus America Elite
Asking me last year if I would be a National Queen, and have walked in New York Fashion Week, I would not have believed you. This week, I end this chapter filled with unforgettable memories, challenges that were overcome, and triumphs celebrated. It’s a moment that marks both an end and a beginning—the conclusion of this beloved pageant journey and the dawn of new adventures for us all. Throughout this journey, I have witnessed incredible talent, resilience, and sheer dedication. The Miss Plus America Pageant has not only showcased my unique abilities but also embodied the spirit of unity, respect, and camaraderie. Competing in Miss Plus America was never just about the competition; it was about discovering who I am, what I stood for, and how I could positively impact the world.
Thank you to my sister queens for life, sponsors, family, Coach Janelle, and Momma Nanette—your unwavering support and encouragement have been the backbone of my success. As I close this chapter, I take with me the lessons learned, the friendships forged, career growth opportunities, and the joyous moments that have brightened future days. I will remember that every end has a new beginning and that the end of this pageant journey is just the start of new opportunities to grow, excel, and make a difference.
To the 2024 delegation, carry your title with grace, dignity, and a sense of purpose that will inspire us all. Set a higher bar for future contenders, and your legacy will undoubtedly influence the pageant for years to come. The memories you create here will forever be a testament to the beauty, strength, and spirit of your legacy. In closing, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to this pageant year as I have grown to become a national pageant queen, national plus-size model, author, modeling coach, editor-in-chief of a magazine, production manager, and business owner. The journey to the crown is worth it, as long as you are honest, grateful, and BE U QUEEN!
Thank you, and farewell.
Shamone Garcia
Ms. Plus America Elite 2023-2024
Keever Murdaugh, 2023 Mrs. Plus America
Keever Lernise Murdaugh was reared in Kingstree, SC where she attended the public schools of Williamsburg County. She is the eldest of three sisters. She’s been married 25 years and together they have two beautiful and successful young adult children. Rev. Murdaugh graduated from Midlands Technical College with an Associate of Health Sciences Degree as a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, and she is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in healthcare management. In addition to her career endeavors as a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant-Program Manager, Rev. Murdaugh is the reigning Mrs. Plus America 2023, a Certified Life Coach, 3 time and recent best-selling author, teacher, facilitator, advocate, board member, entrepreneur, international podcast host and executive producer, plus size sophisticated model and a motivational and inspirational speaker. She describes herself as a servant leader and thrives on helping others through life’s tough situations through God’s word. During her reign as a national queen, she vows to continue her advocacy by supporting her platform to end violence against women and children through volunteering, speaking engagements, fundraising efforts and more. Known as “the working queen,” she looks forward to continuing her crusade beyond the crown when her reign ends on August 3, 2024. Her favorite scripture is Proverbs 3:6, “In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct thy path” and this scripture is the testament of how she lives her life on a daily basis.
Screenshot 
Screenshot 
As I end this chapter, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride. This year has been a journey of incredible highs, meaningful connections, and profound personal growth. I am honored to have represented as your Mrs. Plus America 2023. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of meeting many remarkable individuals. Their stories, resilience, and kindness have touched my heart and strengthened my resolve to continue advocating for causes close to my heart. Together, we raised awareness, championed initiatives, and worked towards a better and more inclusive future. During my reign, I have had opportunities to speak on and support many initiatives on various levels, both domestic and global, through TV appearances, podcasts appearances, magazine features and newspaper articles, just to name a few. I also had the honor of being awarded the prestigious Jefferson Award for my unwavering community advocacy and support. My experiences as your National Mrs. Plus America ignited many new passions within me, with one of those passions being modeling. I have Ripped various runways during my reign to include but not limited to NYFW February 2024 and will return September 2024 as well as have been featured on a NY billboard, been featured in magazines, on podcasts and much more. I have been extremely blessed this past year. I gave a lot of myself to many causes this year but I’ve gained so much more than what I gave out. I have gained a sisterhood like no other. I have also gained perspective that reinforced to dream big and work diligently to turn those dreams into reality. It has reminded me to believe in my strength, my voice, and my potential and to always remember that true beauty radiates from kindness, courage, and the authenticity of my spirit. I encourage every woman to embrace the Queen within with all the passion and dedication you possess. Cherish every moment, and use every opportunity to uplift others and bring about positive changes. I am looking forward to passing on my crown because my work here is done. As I pass on this crown, I am filled with hope and excitement for the future. This is not a farewell, but a continuation of a journey towards making a lasting impact. With love and gratitude, I step into the next chapter, forever grateful for this unforgettable experience. Thank you to my family, sponsors, Miss Plus America staff and mentors, my coach, The Late Great Nanette Weeks-Trombatore and anyone else that had a hand in making this year a success. I love you all and could not have done it without you. Mama Nette, we did it and I pray that I have made you proud. Continue to rest well Queen. I am so honored to have known you and to be part of your legacy. I am forever grateful and signing off as your forever Mrs. Plus America 2023.
Keever Lernise Murdaugh
Mrs. Plus America 2023
