Hello, my name is Marlee Sell, and I am honored to hold the title of Miss Thurston County 2025! I am currently 18 years old and have lived in Thurston County my whole life. This community has truly shaped who I am, and I am grateful for the experiences and relationships I’ve built here. I have three wonderful siblings Payton, Rylynne, and Cynthia. In my free time, I like to go on walks and hikes with my family. I also enjoy spending quality time with my friends. I have been dedicating much of my time to preparing for Miss Washington, focusing on refining my talent, improving my physical health, and mentally preparing myself for the challenges that lie ahead.

 

My journey with the Miss Thurston County Scholarship Program began when I joined my schools cheer team and met a former Miss Thurston County's Teen Charlease Hyder. Initially, I thought it would be a fun experience to add to my life, but little did I know, it would become something so much more meaningful. At the beginning of the journey I was very nervous and apprehensive about the public speaking and the walking patterns. Along the way I have made so much progress in all factors of pageantry and well as significant changes in my life. I have had the privilege of forming lifelong friendships, including meeting my best friend and teen Maggie Wilson. Taking Charlease's advice was the best decision I have ever made.

 

In addition to my involvement with the Miss Thurston County Scholarship Program, I am passionate about my community service initiative, "Words Unsaid: Supporting Children of Alcoholics" Through this initiative, I advocate for children whose parents struggle with alcohol abuse. My mission is to shed light on how many children are actually impacted by this providing support for families and encouraging the community to take action. I focus on raising awareness, and creating resources for struggling family's and children. Support is the number one thing family's and children need while watching family member struggle. I want to give them what I didn't have while my father was going through his treatment.

 

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to hold the title of Miss Thurston County and to use this platform to advocate for causes that are close to my heart. The chance to make a positive impact in my community and beyond is something I cherish deeply, and I am excited to continue working towards bringing awareness and change to those who need it most!