Ms. Great Lakes Woman AmeriFest

The moment before you step on stage. You've put in the work, practiced, got the gown (Jonathan Kayne Custom), and remind yourself evjoy this moment its over before you can breath.... God has a plan and what is meant to be won't pass you by.

One of the moments we cherish and work for as a Ohio / Great Lakes Grande Supreme title holder is earning our Rhinestones for our sash through support of of community and making appearances. I received mine before nationals and am taking the time to sew them on.

Cherishing the memory of this time.

Thank you Carrie Layne for passing on the legacy of love of community service.

Evening all,

Whew time to start catching up from Nationals- pageant hangover is REAL!!

On our way to Nationals we stopped in at the Amazing historic Boone Tavern in Berea, Kentucky. Such an amazing historic place to visit

✨ AmeriFest Nationals Photo Challenge Day 6: The Journey Is Almost Here! ✨

The gowns are ready, the sparkle is packed, and the excitement is becoming very real. Tomorrow, I pick up my daughter, Diane, and we begin this unforgettable AmeriFest Nationals journey together. Getting to share this experience with her makes every mile, every preparation, and every moment even more meaningful. 👑💖
Packed-up pictures are coming tomorrow, but today I am sharing my competition schedule and asking for your support in the People’s Choice competition!

The winner will receive an incredible prize package and the prestigious America’s Choice title. Every vote, share, and word of encouragement brings me one step closer—and truly means more than you know.
🗳️ Please vote for me here:

https://dempsi.com/vote.php?id=d9927-22

Thank you for believing in me, cheering me on, and being part of this journey. I am heading to Nationals with a grateful heart, a little extra sparkle, and the love and support of some truly amazing people behind me.
Let’s bring home America’s Choice! ✨👑🇺🇸

AmeriFest Nationals Photo Challenge – Day 5: Wardrobe Sneak Peak.

The countdown continues. Packing is well underway, and I couldn't be more excited.

There are sparkles… Beautiful gowns…

A few pairs of shoes (okay…maybe more than a few 😄)…

…and some special surprises I can't wait to reveal on stage.

Every outfit represents a different chapter of my journey, and I'm excited to finally share them with everyone at Nationals!

AmeriFest Photo Challenge ❤️ Day 4 – Why AmeriFest?

Why did I choose AmeriFest?

Because this system is about so much more than competition.

It's about leadership, service, and personal growth.

Building lifelong friendships.l and encouraging others to use their voices to make a positive impact.

The phrase "It's More Than Just..." truly captures what this experience means to me.

I'm honored to represent Great Lakes and excited to continue growing while inspiring others along the way.

I apologize for a day late, I did not get home until after midnight from a whirlwind trip up to Ohio to spwnd the day with my AmerFest Family.

✨ AmeriFest Nationals Photo Challenge – Day 3

Who are your pageant besties? Who are you bringing with you?

One of the greatest blessings pageantry has given me is the incredible people I've met along the way. The friendships, encouragement, and sisterhood make this journey so much more meaningful.

I'm especially thankful to have my biggest supporter, my husband, Dr. James Carmichael, by my side throughout this adventure. His unwavering encouragement reminds me that every dream is worth pursuing.

This year is even more special because I have the opportunity to compete alongside my daughter, . Sharing the stage together is a memory I'll cherish forever. Watching her grow as a young woman, pursue her own goals, and experience this journey beside me is a gift that means more than words can express.

No matter what happens on stage, I already feel like a winner because of the people who will be cheering us on.

I can't wait to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and celebrate everything that makes the AmeriFest family so special!

✨ AmeriFest Nationals Photo Challenge – Day 2
What is your favorite community service/platform topic?
If I could dedicate every day to serving others, I would.

My platform is centered on improving access to mental health resources while inspiring kindness, compassion, and hope through IAMHEART (International Association of Mental Health Education Awareness Resource Team).

When I first began this journey, my goal was simple—to reach people who were struggling and remind them they were not alone. Through advocacy, education, community outreach, and sharing stories of hope, that message has reached countless individuals.
Today, my mission has grown. It is no longer just about reaching people; it is about continuing to expand access to mental health resources, helping individuals and families find support when and where they need it most. I believe resources should be easier to find, conversations about mental health should be easier to have, and no one should ever feel isolated because they don't know where to turn.

Through IAMHEART, I strive to connect people with meaningful resources, advocate for veterans and underserved communities, promote mental health education, and encourage acts of kindness that create lasting change.

Together, we can build communities where kindness is contagious and seeking help is a sign of strength

I'm Kristie Carmichael, proudly representing Great Lakes Woman.

I'm a U.S. Army Veteran, mental health advocate, and doctoral researcher dedicated to improving healthcare leadership. Through my foundation IAMHEART, I've worked to promote mental health awareness, support veterans, and encourage kindness around the world.

The Great Lakes region represents strength, resilience, and community—values I carry with me every day. I'm honored to share this journey with so many incredible women and cannot wait to meet everyone at Nationals!

See you soon, AmeriFest National Pageants !

Wishing each of you a safe and happy holiday.