Music Teacher Ms. Byrd Advances to National "Ms. Veteran America" PAGEANT

This week we’re celebrating music teacher Ms. Joie Byrd, who is traveling to Orlando to compete in the final competition to be named “Ms. Veteran America,” as part of a larger effort to provide housing and resources to women veterans experiencing homelessness.

Ms. Byrd, who leads VIMSIA’s robust Music Program, is a member of the National Guard and formerly a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps. You can read a full interview with her in the St. Thomas Source.

Joie Byrd

Montessori Music and MYP Arts-Music

“The funds raised from this event all go toward providing resources for homeless women veterans,” says Ms. Byrd. “Lifting up these fellow veterans who have fallen on hard times really appealed to me and got me interested in competing.”

Ms. Veteran America 2022 will be held this Sunday, October 30.

“I have never competed in an event like this, and it is far from my comfort zone, which makes it very exciting,” she says. “I keep coming back to the fact that every dollar raised makes a difference and every conversation educating people on the issue of homelessness among women veterans truly does matter.”

All proceeds benefit Final Salute, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit providing safe and suitable housing to homeless women veterans and their children. To support Ms. Byrd, you can either donate directly on their website or tickets are still available to attend virtually.

Go, Ms. Byrd!!! We’ll be watching and rooting for you!