Cobb elder wins Ms. Georgia Health Care Association crown

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A resident of A.G. Rhodes Cobb, a nonprofit nursing home in Marietta, is wearing a new crown after taking top honors in a statewide pageant celebrating the lives, experiences and contributions of Georgia’s elders.

Sandra Farris was crowned 2026 Ms. Georgia Health Care Association (GHCA) on Saturday, Aug. 22, at the annual Ms. GHCA Pageant at Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort in Stone Mountain. The event brought together residents representing long-term care communities from across Georgia.

Farris advanced to the statewide competition after being crowned Ms. A.G. Rhodes earlier this summer. At that time, she shared a message that captures what both experiences have meant to her:

“I would like for people to see us as active, giving members of society,” Farris said.

At the GHCA pageant, Farris reiterated that sentiment, “Nursing homes are where we live and thrive, not where we come to die.”

The remarks of Farris, a lifelong educator, reflect why A.G. Rhodes celebrates events like these. Beyond the crowns and festivities, the pageants provide an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy of older adults and challenge stereotypes about aging by showcasing elders’ personalities, experiences, talents and continued contributions to their communities.

At the statewide pageant, contestants participated in interviews with judges before five finalists were selected. Farris ultimately received the 2026 Ms. GHCA crown.

The Ms. GHCA Pageant is an annual tradition of the Georgia Health Care Association and recognizes residents of GHCA member communities for their accomplishments, experiences and continued involvement in their communities.