Odenton Resident Vies for National Pageant Title

Emily Kund of Odenton, Maryland is vying for the national title of Mrs. US Continental on August 5, 2017 in Savannah, Georgia. The US Continental pageant system believes that women should be recognized not only for their strengths, but also accomplishments. This pageant system promotes intelligent women, women of integrity, women with strong moral values, and inner beauty. The competition consists of three major aspects; interview, fitness wear, and an evening gown portion.

When asked why Ms. Kund wanted to compete in a pageant, she stated that she wanted to use the pageant to help her grow out of her comfort zone and to provide a focus on an initiative she founded called Pretty Strong Smart, which is a womens' and childrens' empowerment initiative. Through Pretty Strong Smart, Ms. Kund does outreach in the community and is funding a scholarship for the 2017-2018 school year.

Ms. Kund works full time in DC as an analyst within a bureau of the Treasury Department. Outside of work, Emily co-hosts a podcast on data visualization, co-leads a data+women meetup for the metro area, and facilitates a data analytics workshop with a specific focus on teenage girls. Emily belongs to the Junior League of Annapolis, which aims to provide support to help women and children achieve self-sufficiency. Emily is also a fitness competitor, placing in both of her shows.

Emily lives in Seven Oaks with her husband Matt and two children, Alex and Katie.