In the fall of 1988, the Memphis (TN) Chapter formulated plans for its first Holiday Cotillion to be sponsored. Criteria were established for selecting young ladies who represented high academics and achievements and in 1989, the young ladies made their debut in the Skyway Ballroom at the Peabody Hotel. 

Each succeeding year, the Holiday Cotillion has been the forum for the gala debutante presentation, but also the beginning of strong mentoring relationships between the debutantes and Links members. Special activities in which the debutantes have engaged include: a walk-a-thon for health, mother-daughter workshop, financial planning seminar, leadership awards luncheon, ladies-in-waiting tea, a legislative retreat, and the rites of passage ceremony. 

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Interested in becoming a Debutante? High school seniors (during the 2026-2027 academic year) are eligible to participate in the 2026 Cotillion Leadership & Service Program. Build leadership skills, serve your community, and join a transformative experience that culminates in our annual Holiday Cotillion presentation.

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RSVP to attend our 2026 Debutante & Lady-in Waiting Information Session

​Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 2:00pm CT

Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church - Southwind Campus

8220 E. Shelby Drive

Memphis, TN, 38125

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Participant Criteria & Requirements:

Potential Debutantes must:

• be a senior in the academic calendar year 2025-2026.

• have min GPA of 3.0, community service, and two (2) recommendation letters from teacher/guidance counselor

• attend at least 70% of all debutante activities—this includes dance practice at Collage every Sunday with your escort and father figure. 

• commit to raising a minimum of $2,000 in sponsorship ads and $1,500 in ticket sales.

• identify a Lady in Waiting (LiW) and Escort.

  
After we review all applications, applicants will be notified of participation by June 1.​​ If you have any questions about this year's program, please reach out to memphistnlinkscotillion@gmail.com. 

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