She's one of our state's biggest representatives, but not from a political standpoint.

She's Miss North Dakota 2010- Katie Ralston.

One of her many duties throughout the year is to visit schools around the state, promoting her platform.

Today, Dan Erdmann caught up with the North Dakota crown-holder in Sawyer.

(Sawyer Superintendent) "Please welcome Katie Ralston, Miss North Dakota 2010!"


(Natural Sound: Clapping)

(Dan Erdmann, KX News) It's an introduction Katie Ralston hears several times a day, but one she's proud to follow.

(Katie Ralston, Miss North Dakota) "So remember, we have to lead by example."


(Dan Erdmann, KX News) Being Miss North Dakota is something Katie doesn't take lightly. She says holding the title is definitely fun, but she also uses it to promote an important message. Her platform is called "Walk This Way: The Path of Leadership."


(Katie Ralston, Miss North Dakota) "When I was younger, I was kind of confused about what a leader was exactly, but it's so basic, a leader is someone that does something and when I can share that with them, it's really great because I think it opens the students eyes to the fact that they don't have to do something really, really great to make a big difference."


(Dan Erdmann, KX News) Katie still recalls a visit from Miss North Dakota when she was in Kindergarten, so she knows more than anyone, the impact she can have on students. Not surprisingly, those same students continue to impact her as well.

(Katie Ralston, Miss North Dakota) "I don't consider myself to be a celebrity or anything, but in their eyes, I kind of am, so it's really humbling when they do that, I love it."


(Dan Erdmann, KX News) Katie's crown may only be good until June, but she says in the meantime, she'll put it to good use, and never take a moment for granted.

(Natural Sound: "You're pretty Miss North Dakota!") (Katie Ralston, Miss North Dakota) "You too!"


(Katie Ralston, Miss North Dakota) "It's been a lot of fun, and I just realize how blessed I am to have this position."


(Dan Erdmann, KX News) In Sawyer, Dan Erdmann, KX News.

You can see Katie again on January 30th, when she represents North Dakota in the Miss America Pageant. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list