Sixteen exceptional young ladies were celebrated at the eighth annual LYDIA Society Trumpet Ball. The event, held on Sunday, April 26, at the Cal Turner Family Center for Student Education at Meharry Medical College, recognized the girls’ journey of self-discovery, empowerment and the bonds of sisterhood.
This year’s theme was “Breaking the Glass Ceiling: When History Calls, You Answer.” It’s an idea that resonates deeply with MDHA Resident Services Manager and LYDIA Society founder, Michael “Mike” Green.
“Throughout my journey, I have been guided by women and men, both in formal education and in the classroom of life, who dared to forge new paths for others to follow,” said Green. “They taught me that the absence of precedent is not a barrier but an invitation to lead.”
During the ceremony, the debutantes wore beautiful white gowns and displayed grace and poise as they performed choreographed dances.
The highlight of the night was the crowning of Miss LYDIA Society 2026, Ja’Liyah, who was selected by a committee. She was crowned by Malinda, the 2025 Miss LYDIA Society, and MDHA Chief Operating Officer Candace Jamison. Ja’Liyah, a varsity cheerleader who loves reading and spending time outdoors, hopes to attend Vanderbilt University and become a doctor. First runner up was Londyn while the second runner up was Brooklyn.
The LYDIA Society Trumpet Ball was made possible through a partnership between MDHA; Meharry Medical College School of Public Health, Vaccine for All; the Resident Associations at MDHA properties; Metropolitan Trustee Erica S. Gilmore and Nurses Middle College Nashville.
The LYDIA Society is a coming-of-age organization dedicated to empowering teenage girls living at MDHA properties through education in writing, technology and health. Participants go to specialized workshops led by Dr. Leah Alexander-Otukpe and the Meharry Medical College Master of Public Health program. Their achievements are then recognized at the annual ball, where one is honored as Miss LYDIA Society.
“Events like the Trumpet Ball remind us that when young women are given the tools to succeed and the support to shine, they become trailblazers who inspire us all.”
