Krewe of Nandi Queen Select II, Jackqueline Harris Russell, was born in Beaumont, Texas to the late Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Harris. Raised in New Orleans, LA by her aunt and uncle, she was educated in the Orleans Parish School System. She is a graduate of Francis T. Nicholls Senior High School, class of 1974.

 

After graduating from high school, she attended Dillard University with a major in nursing. Amid her studies, Jackie married the late Mr. Wayne Russell and started a family. Jackqueline is the mother of Brandon, Maurice and Neatrice Russell and Cyntrell Smith. After becoming a widow early on, she had to carve her own path for her family. She continued her career path in the healthcare profession. First becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), then completing her studies to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She received her LPN license in June 1982.

 

Jackqueline persevered to have Registered Nurse credentials. With three school age children, she graduated from RN school at S. D. Bishop State Community College, Mobile, AL in June 1989 and received her RN license in September 1989. With over 40 years of nursing experience, apart from orthopedics, Jackqueline has worked in every field of nursing imaginable.

 

Jackqueline is not only a Registered Nurse but an entrepreneur. She is the owner of Kuteful Kreations and known as “Lady Sweetz” where she creates gourmet treats and desserts. She is also known for her delicious homemade meals and festive home décor to make her favorite holidays the most special. Her favorite holidays are Christmas and, of course, all things Mardi Gras!

 

Queen Select has been raised in the Mardi Gras culture from a small child. Mardi Gras was meeting up with all her cousins at their great aunt’s house on Felicity Street every Mardi Gras waiting for the Rex parade to roll by. She remembers good times, being showered with beads and trinkets, to the sweet taste of her Aunt Zeal’s blackberry cobbler. To now reign as Queen for the 2025 Mardi Gras season, this has been a dream she thought may have passed her time. However, Queen Select is here to let you know that it is NEVER TOO LATE to make your dream a reality!! Queen Select is not just a member but a charter member of the Krewe of Nandi. She helped charter this organization with an open heart and participating in whatever capacity needed. She has served as 2024 Assistant Coronation Ball Committee Chair, and 2024 Co-lieutenant of the Nea tribe.

 

Queen Select’s faith is paramount and without Jesus Christ in her life, she is nothing. Although Jacqueline currently resides in Texas, she is a member of Epic NOLA Family Worship Center. She shares her favorite scripture “Prayer is my foundation and without prayer and the word of God I am nothing” Psalms 37:1 “Free not thyself of evildoers for they shall be cut down as the grass” Proverbs 3:5:6.

 

To the Captain, Co-Captain, Board of Directors, and Krewe of Nandi Madams, Queen Select II is ready to serve. She embodies the spirit of Queen Mother Nandi as she takes her journey to the throne. She holds the core values of the Krewe of Nandi close to her heart now and forever. “LOVE HER, CHERISH HER,EMPOWER HER!! ALL HAIL NANDI!!”