International Society Daughters of Utah Pioneers, in partnership with Days of ’47, Inc., is pleased to announce the 2025 Royalty: Queen Ellie Simmons, Attendants Megan Haynie, and Jacquelyn Bazinet.
Queen Ellie Simmons is attending Brigham Young University majoring in psychology. She has a deep love of music, sings and plays her guitar incorporating songs she has written. For much of her life she has performed at rest homes and numerous community events. A 4 month humanitarian trip to Costa Rica gave her the opportunity to teach English to children, she also served a mission for her church in Bolivia. Ellie said,” My pioneer ancestor William Bert Simmons, a rescuer of the Martin Handcart Company, left me with a rich legacy, it is part of who I am. Through his life I have found strength and guidance with my own struggles. He was best known for his great faith and willingness to take action. He taught me to welcome the tasks that take me beyond myself.” Ellie is the daughter of Anna Simmons S. Jordan UT and Curtis Simmons Henderson NV.

Attendant Megan Haynie is attending Brigham Young University majoring in communication disorders which will allow her to become a certified Speech Language Pathologist. She volunteers at food pantries and tutors children. Megan is a trained classical singer and performs with the womans’ choir at BYU, is fluent in Spanish, writes poetry and plays the piano. She served a mission for her church. She says that her pioneer heritage gives her a sense of belonging and inspires her to pursue her dreams. Megan is the daughter of Paul and Natalie Haynie of Perry UT.
Attendant Jacquelyn Bazinet is attending Brigham Young University, wants to study at the Jerusalem Center and a semester in France. She was an intern at a dolphin research center in FL, lived in Puerto Rico working as a mother’s helper for a family with 10 children to earn money so she could serve a mission for her church. She is a ballroom dancer, has musical theater and vocal training. Food bank drives, Sub for Santa and singing at assisted living centers are some of the ways she serves her community. Jacquelyn relates, “It has been said that we come to know who we are by knowing from whom we come, I am profoundly grateful to have pioneer heritage. It is a legacy and testament to the power of courage and faith. Jacquelyn is the daughter of Jacque and Marilyn Bazinet of Lehi UT.
The trio was chosen during a scholarship competition. A panel of judges evaluated their responses during live interviews and video submissions centered on this year’s theme, “Pioneer Spirit – Pioneer Strong!” Their goals, accomplishments, poise, leadership, community service, and being a direct descendant of a Utah pioneer who came to the Salt Lake Valley between 1847 and May 10, 1869 were other qualifications. During their reign the Royalty will attend many events for Days of ’47, and International Society Daughters of Utah Pioneers, in addition to speaking at youth, church, community and civic organizations. The Royalty strive to honor the legacy of Utah Pioneers and Utah’s collective heritage by involving themselves within the community throughout the year, endeavoring to instill awareness, a greater understanding and appreciation of the faith, fortitude and courage of the trailblazers of our state. These women are ambassadors for Days of ’47, International Society Daughters of Utah Pioneers and the State of Utah. To schedule an appearance by ISDUP/Days of `47 Royalty members, contact Constance Huntsman, 801-450-2757 or cdhalice@gmail.com.