Editor’s note: “Great Tennesseans in DC” -we’ll feature a notable Tennessean living, working and trying to make a difference in (or around) the nation’s capitol. To nominate anyone, please email Jill Bader at tsspresident@hotmail.com New Profile - Neily Todd APRIL 2008: Neily Todd – Tennessee’s 2008 Cherry Blossom Princess Neily Todd is Tennessee's 2008 Cherry Blossom Princess. Neily represented Tennessee at the National Cherry Blossom Festival, held April 6- April 12 in Washington, DC. Neily is a Saint Cecilia alum and a junior at Vanderbilt University where she is currently majoring in English with a minor in Corporate Strategy. Neily is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, president of the English Major’s Association and an active member in Vanderbilt Student Government. “I’m honored to be given the opportunity to represent the wonderful state of Tennessee during this year’s festival,” Neily said. “It was a privilege to share Tennessee’s local essence and character with the fellow princesses.” The recently–concluded Cherry Blossom Festival represents the 60th Anniversary of the NCSS Cherry Blossom Princess Program started in 1948. The festival also celebrates the friendship between the United States and Japan formed in the 1912 gift of the cherry blossom trees from the then Mayor of Tokyo. Today these trees act as symbols of goodwill and continue to represent the enduring benevolence between the two countries. Moreover, the trees encourage more then 700,000 people to visit Washington to see the blossoms and participate in the events around the capital. During this year, Neily visited the National Cathedral, participated in a reception at Japan’s Ambassador’s residence, and presided with the other princess over the Newseum’s Grand Opening. The Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina and Texas State Society also hosted an evening reception on April 10th on Capitol Hill to honor their respective princesses.

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