PHOTO GALLERY: LMU Nursing Student Nadia Layne Smith Chosen 2026 KMLF Queen

Nadia Layne Smith, representing Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tenn., has been selected the queen of the 2026 Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival. She was selected over 17 queen candidates from different colleges and universities on Saturday afternoon in a beautiful Laurel Cove Amphitheatre ceremony held at Pine Mountain State Resort Park. A native of Barbourville, Ky., Smith is a junior in the LMU Caylor School of Nursing. Kentucky Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman crowned the new queen.

Madalyn Peyton Starkey of Frankfort High School was chosen the Princess of the 2026 KMLF.

Photos by Jamie H. Vaught