Spotlight: Lauryn Grace Mallard, Miss Ballantyne 2024 | Miss North Carolina Organization

Talent Category: Dance (Lyrical)

Previous MAO Titles: Randolph County ’22 (3rd RU), Jacksonville ’23 (Top 15)

Hometown: Advance, NC

Current Schooling: In 2021, I graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, earning a B.S. in Nutritional Science and triple minors in Biology, Chemistry, and Dance. In 2024, I graduated summa cum laude from High Point University with an MBA, concentrating in Healthcare Management.

What are your scholastic and/or career ambitions? My career ambitions are to become a Pediatrician and Medical Missionary, traveling to developing countries to provide needed care.

Community Service Initiative (CSI): Fight with Grace

What are some objectives you have as a titleholder? My CSI, Fight with Grace, is dedicated to fundraising and advocating for childhood cancer. Cancer does not discriminate; approximately 47 children are diagnosed with cancer every day in the United States—about two classrooms full of children. I have been passionate about this cause since I began advocating and volunteering at the age of five. I collaborate with community members to support families affected by childhood cancer, ensuring their focus can remain on their child’s treatment. Through Fight with Grace, I have raised over $7,000 and I vow to not rest until a cure for childhood cancer is found.

What are some interesting facts about you? I can ride a unicycle, I have done a 100 foot free fall, I won my first Miss America local competition wearing sandals in evening gown, and I am the only person in my family who does not have brown eyes.

What do you enjoy doing for fun? I am grateful for every moment spent with my family and friends, whether we’re traveling and exploring new places, trying out Pinterest recipes, or simply sharing laughs! Recently, I got a Kindle and have been diving into a variety of books. I enjoy staying active by going to the gym, dancing both inside and outside of the studio, and going on outdoor walks.