Jackson named Miss Black Knight 2023
Robbinsville – The nickname “Sunshine” was afforded to Taelyr Ann Jackson while she was a member of the Lady Knights softball team her sophomore year.
Spend five minutes around her and you will find out why the name is a perfect descriptor: Jackson is either always smiling or sounds upbeat – or both.
And under the Friday Night Lights, Jackson found a reason to put the patented smile on full display: she was announced as the 2023 Miss Black Knights inside a packed Modeal Walsh Memorial Stadium.
“I was in complete shock and I was so thankful for every bit of it,” Jackson admitted. “I still don’t think it’s hit me yet; it feels like a dream.”
The daughter of Mark Jackson and Robyn Wolfe, Taelyr moved to Graham County before her eighth-grade year.
“There is truly no other place like Robbinsville and this community,” said Jackson. “I’ve lived in various places prior to living in Robbinsville and there was never such a loving community.”
Jackson was dubbed the queen of a court unlike any other: there were ties for both first and second runner-up, meaning five seniors walked off Bob Colvin Field with sashes across their shoulders.
“To be picked as Miss Black Knight is such an honor and I’m so thankful for everyone that has touched my heart throughout my time living here,” Jackson said. “God has blessed me with so many amazing friends and peers. To be standing alongside the most amazing, kind girls was such an honor on its own.”
Jackson is very active at Robbinsville High School. She is a member of the FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), FFA (Future Farmers of America), HOSA (Health Occupational Students of America), Spanish, History, and Math and Science clubs. She is also a multi-sport athlete, suiting up for the Lady Knights’ track & field and softball programs.
After graduation, Jackson plans to pursue a career in cosmetology.
Zoe Beasley and Aubree Nichols were both afforded first runners-up for Miss Black Knight; Lindsey Batts and Karlee Stewart were voted as second runners-up.
The 2022 Miss Black Knight, Desta Trammell, was unable to attend to bequeath her crown, due to commitments at her college. Robbinsville High School Assistant Principal Erica Sawyer fulfilled the task.
The homecoming ceremony can be viewed at grahamstar.com, as well as on The Graham Star’s YouTube channel.