Beauty, talent, and heart: Fourth-generation Blue Hose continues family tradition of service

Holly Whatley's jazz medley of Al Jolson songs played a large part in getting her crowned Miss Williamston in 2008. Winning the overall swimsuit competition certainly didn't hurt matters either. What helped most, however, may have been the heart the PC junior took into the competition.

"I feel so honored and blessed to have this title because there is so much background behind it," Whatley said.

The Miss Williamston title has been restored to honor the life of Leslie Mazzara, the last Miss Williamston crowned in 2002. Two years after winning, Mazzara and a friend were tragically killed.

"(Leslie) worked hard and passionately in her Anderson community," Whatley said, "I am so honored to be the new Miss Williamston and excited about working with this loving and supportive community."

Whatley's service platform during the Miss South Carolina pageant was breast cancer awareness. She chose it because her mother, Mary Ellen Wilkinson, was diagnosed with breast cancer six years ago.

"I am going to speak to women of all ages, young and old, about the importance of early detection and self-exams," Whatley said. "The very reasons my mom is a survivor."

A fourth-generation Blue Hose, Whatley continues the family tradition of service of PC alumni that began with her great-grandfather, Dr. George R. Wilkinson, Sr. His son, Holly's grandfather, Dr. George R. Wilkinson, Jr., also valued service, working as director at a hospital in China and in hospitals in Greenville, SC.

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