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The 2025 Ms. Maryland Corporate America competition lit up the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor on Saturday, March 22, as eight accomplished women took center stage to compete for a chance to represent the state at the Ms. Corporate America national competition in June.
After nearly two hours of competition—including compelling personal pitches and a stunning formal wear presentation—Sierra Morgan was crowned Ms. Maryland Corporate America 2025. She also walked away with several top honors, including the Pageant Rockstar Award, Social Media Award, and Interview Award.
This year’s contestants were selected based on their professional experience, leadership qualities, and commitment to community service. To compete, participants must be between the ages of 30 and 65, possess a minimum of five years of professional experience, and have at least two years of community service involvement, either past or present.
Dr. Joanne Frederick was named First Runner-Up and also received the Most Photogenic Award. She is a licensed therapist serving the DMV area and an Associate Professor and Co-Chair at George Mason University, where she trains and inspires the next generation of leaders.
LaRosha Paul was named Second Runner-Up. She is the creative force behind B U Candles Co, where she crafts hand-poured candles, room sprays, and body care products that promote self-care and intentional living.
Katrina Griffin was named Third Runner-Up, dazzling the audience in a rose pink evening gown adorned with intricate sequins from neckline to hem. The full-length gown featured a dramatic feathered detail at the bottom, perfectly blending confidence and elegance. Her look earned her the Cinderella Award for Best Formal Wear. Katrina is an HBCU graduate and Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in reproductive and women’s health. She also serves as the First Lady of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Baltimore City, Maryland.
Christina Lippert Kelley was recognized with two honors. She received the Civic Scarlet Award for Community Service for her exceptional dedication to making a difference in her community. Christina also earned the Congeniality Award, a reflection of her kindliness, friendliness, and uplifting spirit toward others during the competition.
The Sales Idol Award went to Ashley Van Pelet, a powerhouse with over 21 years of business experience. She holds a Certificate of Entrepreneurship from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program.
The competition was hosted by Dr. Alethia Tucker, Maryland State President of the Ms. Corporate America Organization, and Mistress of Ceremonies emceed by ABC 7 News Anchor Michelle Marsh, who brought both professionalism and poise to the evening’s festivities. A number of distinguished guests were also in attendance, including Anissa King, Founder of the Ms. Corporate America Organization; Shawn Fair, Ms. Corporate America partner and executive leadership coach; and Dr. Marcea Burnette Whitaker, the Lead Life Coach for the Maryland competition.
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