A 27-year-old woman from New York, Cassie Donegan, emerged victorious among beauties from all states of the United States, and was crowned “Miss America 2026” at the finals held in Orlando, Florida on September 7th. She became the eighth representative from New York to win the title in over a hundred years and received a scholarship check of up to $70,000.
According to the organizers, Donegan plans to use the scholarship to pursue further studies in university and aim for a master’s degree. Currently, she serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the childcare company Southern Sitter LLC and is also a member of the Actors’ Equity Association, accumulating rich performing experience on national stages.
The Miss America pageant originated from a beauty contest in Atlantic City in 1921, just a year after women gained the right to vote. It has now evolved into one of America’s well-known brands, awarding over $5 million in cash scholarships annually, and providing more funding at national, state, and local levels to help countless women expand their educational and career opportunities.
Donegan will now serve as the national ambassador for the “Miss America Opportunity Program,” traveling across the country over the next year to promote the organization’s advocacy for female leadership and educational mission.