Contestants include: Michelle DuFour, a freshman culinary arts major from Lexington, Ky. DuFour's platform is food for all promoting helping to feed the needy. She will give a vocal performance for the talent competition.

Miranda Faulk is a junior speech/language pathology major from Louisville. Faulk's platform is physical fitness. She will give a vocal performance for the talent competition.

Abby Claypool is a freshman exercise science major from Vicksburg. Claypool's platform is female leadership throughout schools. She will give a vocal performance for the talent competition.

Kara Franklin is a senior business management major from Birmingham, Ala. Franklin's platform is peer pressure and building self-esteem. She will give a dramatic presentation for the talent competition.

Carrie Deleon is a freshman chemistry major from Hattiesburg. Deleon's platform is child abduction prevention awareness. She will perform tap dance for the talent competition.

Mendy Carnathan is a junior history major from Okolona. Carnathan's platform is the hearing impaired. She will give a sign-language presentation for the talent competition.

Conner Anderson is a senior psychology major from Louisville. Anderson's platform is mentoring children. She will give a piano performance for the talent competition.

Contestants also will compete in evening wear, swimsuit and interview categories.

The reigning Miss W is Hilary King from Stringer.

Miss W 2003 will represent The W at Miss Mississippi June 28 in Vicksburg.