Miss Nebraska 2025 Inspires Healthy Habits at McCook YMCA Summer Camp

McCook, Neb. — Miss Nebraska 2025, Makinzie Gregory, kicked off her year of service with a visit to the McCook YMCA summer camp on Monday, July 1. Speaking to an energetic group of students, Gregory shared her personal journey and encouraged the campers to prioritize their health and well-being.

“You are able to do what you love better when you take care of your health,” she told the students. “Whether it’s school, friendships, or your favorite activities, healthy habits help your body and mind work their best.”

Gregory, a Scottsbluff native and Bellevue University student, was crowned Miss Nebraska in early June after seven years of competing. Her win marked the culmination of a goal she set at 17 years old. “The first month has been a whirlwind, but it’s really the best job ever,” Gregory said. “I wanted this title so I could do things like this visit communities, speak to kids, and help promote the organization that helped me grow into the person I am today.”

She shared about her passions including dancing, reading, photography, and physical therapy and gave a special dance performance in the YMCA gym. Gregory has been dancing since age two and will showcase her talent on the Miss America stage this September in Orlando, Florida.

In addition to her role as Miss Nebraska, Gregory works as a physical therapist assistant and holds a black belt in Taekwondo. She told campers that her own interests and career path were shaped by a commitment to wellness and hard work.

“You are my first group to visit,” Gregory told the kids. “And that’s really special to me.”

Gregory will spend the year traveling across Nebraska, visiting schools, camps, and community events to promote health, leadership, and service. The Miss Nebraska program, part of the Miss America Scholarship Organization, helps young women develop leadership skills, express their talents, and pursue higher education.

For more on Miss Nebraska 2025 and her upcoming appearances, visit missnebraska.org.