Eringrace Smith crowned Miss Debutante 2026

VICKSBURG, Miss.(VDN) — Eringrace Smith, a Vicksburg native, earned the title of Miss Debutante 2026 on Saturday at the 53rd Annual Debutante Ball.

Smith heard her name called for the highest honor of the night in front of a large group of supporters.

“I had a rush of emotion because I was in complete shock and the first thing I did was look at my mom,” Smith said. “I was so excited and I didn’t know how to react to it, but it’s a blessing and I thank God for it.”

Smith was selected for the top honor from a field of 31 other debutantes. Throughout the process, which ran from September through February, participants had opportunities to bond and connect with one another.

She said earning the title will help shape her in a positive way.

“I’m about to unlock a new level of myself, and that’s just how I represent myself,” Smith said. “I also have to represent my community because Miss Debutante is something that’s within the whole city of Vicksburg.”

Along with the crown, Smith received a $3,668 scholarship.

A student at Vicksburg High School, Smith is active in numerous organizations. She serves as a Gator Girl, is a member of the Missy Gators soccer team, is senior class vice president, and participates in Key Club and the Technology Student Association, where she is president. She is also a member of the National Honor Society, president of the National Technical Honor Society, a senior homecoming maid and a Thurgood Marshall Scholar. Smith currently has a 3.9 gpa and a 4.6 qpa.

Her hobbies include dancing, listening to music and praising God. In the community, Smith serves as a blood donor and has volunteered at the Kings Community Center and Little People’s Learning Center. She is a Mississippi Secretary of State Ambassador, a member of the Warren County Youth Advisory Board and part of the Rhoer Club, sponsored by the ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. She attends Greater Grove Street M.B. Church, where she is a praise dancer and youth announcer.

After graduation, Smith plans to attend a historically Black college or university of her choice and major in health science with a minor in pre-law. She hopes to work in sports medicine before eventually attending law school to become a sports medicine malpractice lawyer.

Smith describes herself as passionate, optimistic, enthusiastic and full of zest. Her personal motto is, “Be comfortable with the uncomfortable because God’s blessings can come anytime, anywhere!”

She is the daughter of Mr. Eros Smith and Ms. Dionne Carter.

In a message to her fellow debutantes, Smith shared words of gratitude and encouragement.

“First and foremost, everyone looked beautiful. I thank y’all for being the best peers and friends throughout our journey. I’m proud of each 2026 debutante, and I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to connect with all of you ladies,” she said. “I’m very grateful for the title that I now hold, and I want to thank those who supported me along the way. Your love is very appreciated and cherished. With the rest of the year flowing and graduation coming ahead, remember to stand firm, gracefully, humbly and proudly with the things you do.

“I hope to have a lifelong relationship with all of y’all, and if you ever need me, I’m here. Always, always, always thank the Highest, and never look down. Cherish your crown because true queens don’t back down. I love y’all and congrats. Class of ’26 on top forever and always.”

— Miss Debutante 2026