Lauren Nelson

All of us at News 9 would like to congratulate Lauren Nelson and her husband Randy.

The recently announced they were expecting their first child in October. Since that announcement Lauren's doctor has suggested she reduce stress and be on limited bed rest for the final few weeks of her pregnancy. Lauren wants to make sure everyone knows there are no serious problems, and that all is good. This is just precautionary.

Lauren also announced that after baby Mason arrives she will step down as co-host of News 9 at Four. Lauren has been offered another opportunity (outside of TV) that will enable her to work only a few days a month and spend the majority of her time with her family. This is something Lauren really wanted and she is very excited.

Nelson, a Lawton native, is one of 85 women in the country to ever hold the title of Miss America. She was crowned Miss America 2007 at the age of 20. She launched a nationwide platform of Internet safety, Be NetSmart – Protecting Kids Online. Nelson teamed up with America's Most Wanted host, John Walsh, to assist in the apprehension of potential child predators and was called to testify before Congress on the issue of Internet safety.

Nelson was honored with the prestigious TOYA Award by the United States Junior Chamber Organization in 2008 as one of "Ten Outstanding Young Americans." She lends her name to numerous organizations but has a personal passion for Children's Miracle Network.

Nelson is an accomplished singer and performer. She has co-starred on stage with Shirley Jones and Patrick Cassidy in "Carousel" and has been asked to sing for several professional sporting events. A recent highlight was sharing her talent and testimony on Easter Sunday for Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia.

Lauren speaks for various women's events, youth retreats and charitable organizations. She teaches Sunday school at her local church each week to 11th grade girls. She and her husband, Randy, lead worship on Wednesday nights for the youth and on Sunday evenings for the contemporary worship service at Edmond's First Baptist Church.