Homecoming event held at Chapin High School for Miss Teen USA K. Lee Graham

IRMO, SC – Miss Teen USA K. Lee Graham visited Chapin High School on August 20 for a homecoming event in her honor.

With crown and sash in tow, Graham surprised students assembled for an annual photo and addressed her peers in the school’s senior class, thanking them for their support and challenging them to do well in school this year. Graham also was recognized by dignitaries including District Five Board Chairman Beth Watson, Chapin Mayor Skip Wilson, and South Carolina House Reps. Chip Huggins and Nathan Ballentine.

“I didn’t get to start my senior year, so it’s really good to see everyone, have this experience and tell everyone thank you for what they’ve done for me,” Graham said. “…When I won Miss Teen USA, I just got this bombardment of encouragement and support. It’s just been amazing so far. I’m proud to represent South Carolina. I’m proud to represent Chapin and the Midlands area.”

Graham won the title during a national competition on August 2, impressing the judges with her grace, poise and intellect – skills Graham said she honed as a student in District Five.

Chapin High Principal Dr. Akil Ross said, “Today we have a great opportunity to recognize and celebrate a person who has spoken from her heart and as a result has brought pride and respect to our community. And just as we would do for any of you, we take this opportunity to recognize her as she should be.”

Chapin Mayor Skip Wilson presented Graham with a key to the town of Chapin. He said, “We do want to welcome K. Lee back to the Chapin community as one of yours and also as one of ours.  She embarks on a journey as Miss Teen USA 2014, and we want to wish her the best for the next 12 months as she does her travels around the United States, as she attends the New York Film Academy and also representing the United States of America in her position.”

(From left to right) Lexington-Richland School District Five Board Secretary Ellen Baumgardner, Board Chairman Beth Watson, Chapin Principal Dr. Akil Ross, Miss Teen USA K. Lee Graham, Board Member Jondy Loveless and Board Member Jim Turner

Being Miss Teen USA has allowed Graham to further promote her “Live Beautifully” campaign, which encourages youth to focus on developing good character and “inner beauty.” As a student at Chapin High, Graham volunteered with many local, state and national organizations such as the USO, the American Heart Association, Life Changers and the Arthritis Foundation.  Graham plans to earn her remaining high school credits online, then attend the New York Film Academy before beginning college.

“I think pageants help elevate young women into this position of leadership that otherwise you wouldn’t have,” Graham said in a July interview. “You also get to speak to so many different students, and that’s been my target audience. So, it’s been a great opportunity for me to do that.”