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Miss Illinois Pre-Teen will crown her successor!
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Featuring Miss Illinois!
One last chance, to capture an
ambition. One vision, one moment, and one dream that had yet to be
accomplished. Given my last opportunity to compete with NAM, I ran with the
hope of capturing a title that represented something much larger than me. With
such a significant blessing, I was eager to capitalize on this remarkable journey.
I yearned to empower children and young adults, along with being an advocate
for the voiceless. Therefore, I partnered with the University of Illinois
Extension Office and 4-H to package 13,392 meals for the food pantries in Clay,
Effingham, Fayette, and Jasper counties. Also, I joined forces with the Clay
County Animal Rescue and Shelter in order to walk the shelter animals, assist
in Adopt-A-Pet benefits, and to ultimately raise awareness for the Rescue
Shelter. I’ve also assisted in raising money for a local school by teaming up
with Kiwanis and serving cotton candy. Additionally, I am an advocate for the
Holt International Organization where I sponsor a young, ten year old girl from
Ethiopia. And I made several appearances at local county fairs, pageants, and
fall festivals around southern Illinois, providing me with the opportunity to
speak to my hometown about National American Miss while also being a role model
to those who’ve longed to chase larger than life dreams. Yet, none of this
would have ever been accomplished if it weren’t for God leading me and the
immaculate support from my family and friends. Thank you NAM for such a time as
this.
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Featuring Miss Ohio!
Where do I begin? I can’t help but feel
overwhelmed with emotion as I say goodbye to one of the most amazing
organizations that has molded me into the young woman I am today. Looking back
at the past ten years of involvement with National American Miss, I see how far
I’ve truly come. Walking onto the National American Miss stage at eleven years
old, I was incredibly shy, unconfident, and had zero self-esteem. However,
immediately after my first year of competing, I fell in love with NAM! But most
importantly, I learned to fall in love with the person God made me, flaws, and
all. Being involved with National American Miss made me into the person I am
today. I realized how important community service, confidence, and the simple
concept of being yourself is throughout everyday life. NAM helped me realize my
love for public speaking, further inspiring me to pursue a career in
international corporate law. I can’t think NAM enough for helping me become the
best me I can be!
As a full-time Pre-Law major at Fisk University
in Nashville, TN, I was faced with the task of balancing being a college student,
preparing for Nationals, as well as setting aside enough time to fulfill my job
as Miss Ohio! I had the pleasure of volunteering at the Akron-Canton Regional
Foodbank, the JDRF Walk for a Cure, as well as continuing my service with my
fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House, ‘Courtney’s Cans 4 Kids’. My favorite
community service project involved volunteering for the Nashville Food Project;
this involved preparing fresh and healthy food for the homeless and less
fortunate throughout Nashville, Tennessee.
In November, I was blessed with the opportunity
to attend my last Nationals ever! While it was a bittersweet realization that
it would be my last time competing on the NAM stage, I had the time of my life!
I met so many girls at Nationals whom had also been involved with NAM for many
years; it was comforting knowing we were all going through the same bittersweet
moment together! Although I did not walk away with the National title, I am
happy with knowing I performed my absolute best! To my complete surprise I was
blessed to walk away placing in the Top 5 for the National Photogenic, Actress,
and Spokesmodel competitions! Nationals week was even better because I spent it
cheering on my little sister, Carmyn, who competed for the first year at NAM! I
couldn’t have been prouder of my little sis!
To all my sister queens: Gigi, Kylee, Megan,
Olivia, and Kaylin, it has been amazing getting to share this year with you
all! Although I was unable to do as many appearances with you all as I would’ve
liked because of me going to college out-of-state, we still share a sisterhood
that NAM has blessed us with; I am forever thankful for that. Though our time
as sister queens is ending, I urge you to all continue to be the best you, you
can be! You have already accomplished so much at a young age, I hope you
continue to help and inspire hundreds of others. The crown and banner may go,
but the job never ends. Keep shining your positive light and making a
difference, I look forward to seeing the great things you will accomplish!
To my successor: Congratulations! Welcome to the
sisterhood! You now have one of the greatest jobs being able to represent such
a beautiful organization, as well as being an example to girls everywhere!
Remember to cherish every moment of this next year, it will be over before you
know it! Lastly, as hard as it is to believe, you are one of the older girls
now! Remember to lead by example for all the younger NAM girls, especially your
sister queens; trust me, they look up to you and are watching everything you
do! Although this may be bittersweet knowing it is your last year competing
with NAM, give it your all and don’t forget to live in the moment!
For
the last time, I am your reigning National American Miss Ohio 2016, Courtney
Warren!
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Featuring Miss Ohio Teen!
Dear State Finalists,NAM is a journey that will stay with you for a lifetime. At 10 years old I attended my first open call and i was hooked. I felt I had never been so individually invested in an activity. After tons of focus and preparation, third times the charm! I was crowned the 2012 Miss Ohio Pre-Teen. Fast forward four years, I couldn’t help but compete again because of the blessing that NAM is, and I was lucky enough to be crowned the 2016 Miss Ohio Teen.I realized how much I loved NAM after I competed for the first time. I remember leaving that weekend wishing it would never end and begging to come back next year. That following school year, I had a much greater sense of confidence. I found myself feeling much more relaxed giving presentations at school, and the sole fact that I had given an introduction on stage in front of hundreds of people made me feel like I could do anything in front of the classroom. Even since then, my friends always volunteer me to speak in front of groups or present because they know I am able to handle it well. This act is such a compliment to the skills I have learned through NAM. Not only did I gain confidence, but I was able to establish who I was and who I wanted to be. While preparing for interviews, I realized that I would be able to excel if I was able to articulate the person I was to the judges. Knowing these things about myself helped me outside of the interview room later, when applying for jobs and in my every day life. I was immediately hired for two jobs after being interviewed. I know that without NAM, I would not be the person I am today. For this, I am so thankful.This year, I represented NAM through fundraisers with Caroline’s kids, a no kill cat shelter, the Veteran’s Hospital, raising over a thousand dollars for a friend with diabetes, and coaching a special needs cheerleading team. I also had such a blast visiting the 2016 North Texas and 2016 Tennessee Kentucky pageants that I traveled to the 2017 South Texas and 2017 North and South Carolina pageants. Service is a heartwarming experience like no other, and I’m so glad NAM instilled this desire to help others in me at a young age. My service has even allowed me to be nominated for an award at school! Attending nationals was a blast. I cannot believe my year is coming to a close. After seven years with this system, it’s hard to imagine this state pageant being my last.With pageant weekend right around the corner, focus on being the best you! A title lasts a year, but the skills last a lifetime. NAM equips you with abilities that cannot be found anywhere else. This weekend will be full of lifelong friendships and fun. I still keep in touch with girls I met at my first NAM pageant. Cherish every moment you get this weekend. It will be one to remember. I cannot wait to meet all of you and I’m so excited to see who will be my successor!For the last time, I am your 2016 Miss Ohio Teen, Giovanna AKA Gigi Vitale.
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What an Awesome Year for Miss Illinois Teen!
I have had an unforgettable experience being your National American Miss Illinois Teen Queen 2016. I can’t believe I have been given the opportunity to be a National American Miss Queen for the first time. After being crowned, I couldn’t wait to use my title and participate in many community service opportunities as possible. I was able to participate in the Fall and Spring Walk of Hope to promote cancer awareness. In August, I had the opportunity to model in the fashion show for Pageant Girls for a Cure. I donated my community service school supplies to Homewood Christian Academy. I collected food in honor of Stamp Out Hunger Day. I was even a co-host for the Homewood Christian Academy Fashion/Talent Show. Being queen is the best job I have ever had. I will never forget these memories and I will cherish them forever. To my sister queens, I will never forget the times we spent together and I will really miss you girls. To my teen sister queens, I will miss you guys so much!!! I had such a great time meeting all of you at nationals. You all are amazing women and I hope you have a blessed future. To my family and friends, thanks for always being there for me and supporting me throughout my reign. I don’t know what I do without you all; especially my mom and sister for always having me look my best at my pageants! To my directors, Brian and Megan as well as Steve and Kathleen, you guys are truly the best directors ever. Thank you for all that you have done for me and being such kind hearted directors. To the next Miss Illinois Teen, never take this job for granted. Cherish it and wear your crown and sash with pride wherever you go. Stay true to yourself and have the best time of your life.
With much love,
Jaylah Nicole Jones
Miss Illinois Teen 2016
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Featuring Miss Indiana Pre-Teen Cover Girl!
It is so hard for me to believe
that one year has passed by already since I was crowned Miss Indiana Pre-Teen
Cover Girl! It has truly been a life changing experience for me in so many
ways. Prior to last year I had never competed in a pageant before. One day last
march I came home from school and my mom handed me an invitation to attend an
open call for National American Miss in my hometown of Merrillville. I was very
hesitant because I had never been on a stage in front of people before and I
was very shy and quiet and not at all confident in my ability to compete in a
pageant but my mom believed in me so much that she gave me the push I needed to
get out of my comfort zone and give it a shot and to my surprise I was one of
the lucky girls that was chosen that day to be a State Finalist!
The title of Cover Girl is not an
easy title to win. There is so much hard work that goes into talking to local
businesses and to friends and family. I learned so much about myself going
through this process and what it took to stay determined in the face of
adversity. I got a lot of No’s before I started hearing Yes. It is not always
about the destination but about the journey. The journey to win the crown
taught me so much about life, hard work and the belief in oneself. Winning Miss Indiana Pre-Teen Cover Girl 2016
was a dream comes true for me! I am truly blessed and honored to hold this
title and I am so grateful for the friends, family and businesses that helped
me along the way. My parents, my little brother and grandparents have always
been there to support me and cheer for me. My mom worked so hard getting my
outfits together and helping me go over my speeches and routines and driving me
to Georgia and Nashville to work with the most incredible photographers for my
pageant headshots. My Dad also worked very hard to get me sponsorships and make
sure my mom and I had the means to get what I needed for my pageant and
especially getting our whole family to Nationals in California.
The Highlight of my year was
Nationals! Nationals was an incredible experience that almost felt like a
dream. Walking along the Hollywood walk of fame, seeing the Hollywood sign in
person and going to Disneyland for the first time in my life was so magical!
The best part was meeting incredibly talented girls from all across the United
States and making new friends and sharpening my skills by competing against
girls who’s talent’s would blow your mind! I won the title National Cover Girl
2016-2017 at Nationals this past Thanksgiving. Holding two titles in one year
has been incredible and I could not have done it without my family.
I have had the greatest opportunity
to give back to my community by volunteering at the Food Bank of North West
Indiana by packaging food to be given to the elderly in my community who have
been hit with poverty. Helping others has truly been the best part of being
Cover Girl. I have also been able to ride in parades, meet my local and state
representatives and become friends with countless National American Miss girls
from all across the United States.
To all the girls competing in NAM
this coming year, you are incredible for making it this far. You took the first
step to enter your state pageant and make it there, that is such an
accomplishment! Know that you are amazing just the way you are and that you can
make a difference. It is not always about the destination but about the
journey, the experiences and people you meet along the way that make you a
better stronger person. Pageant weekend passes by so quickly so don’t forget to
enjoy every moment and make new friends. I can’t wait to meet everyone this
July and crown the next Amazing Cover Girl!
Sincerely,
Forever yours, Miss Indiana Pre-Teen Cover Girl 2016
Carmello Arredondo
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Featuring Miss Michigan!
Wow! What an incredible year it has been. It was 6 years ago that I first fell in love with NAM and started my journey – then being crowned Miss Michigan Teen in 2015 and Miss Michigan in 2016 changed my life forever. I am so grateful for the amazing opportunities that have been bestowed upon me through this experience. Although my journey with National American Miss is coming to a close, the lessons I have learned and the skills I have attained remind me every day what a wonderful impact NAM has on young women across the country. This year alone I have made so many unforgettable memories like speaking on live television on behalf of the American Heart Association, volunteering at an international marathon to encourage living a healthy lifestyle, cooking spaghetti alongside my sister queens at the Ronald McDonald House and riding in a Lamborghini at the Detroit Auto show are only a few. At nationals, I became close to my five little sisters and made a new best friend all the way from Louisiana! To my sister queens; I am thankful for the bonds we have made and I am so proud of the women you all are becoming. To my successor; do not underestimate the role of an appointed title and the responsibility it requires. Good luck and enjoy! To the contestants; congratulations! Already you have accomplished so much and remember to have fun! To all; remember, dreams do come true if you believe!
XOXO
Makiah Huebner,
Miss Michigan
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Featuring Miss Michigan Jr. Teen!
Dear contestants,
Congratulations on how far you've come and how hard you've worked. Let your personality shine on stage, and let the judges see how beautiful you are inside and out.
The first time I competed at National American Miss was in 2015 where I placed 1st runner up to the Jr.teen title, only to be win it the next year, thanks to the love on support of my family. To the women who has been with me every single step of the way, Mom; the best escort, Dad; and the best brother, Attalla; thank you for your help, encouragement and for always making me smile, I love you.
When crowned the NAM Michigan Jr.teen 2016, I had no idea that this year would be one of the greatest in my life, and one that I will cherish forever. Rebekah, Christina, Katelyn, Makiah, Mckenzie, and Amanda, volunteering and making appearances with you was a blast, and I can't imagine sharing those experiences with anyone else. You have all truly become my sisters.
Mr. and Mrs. Lew and Patti Schneider, thank you so much for welcoming me into the NAMily. Mr. and Mrs. Steve and Kathleen Mayes, I am so grateful that you have taken the Michigan pageant under your wings, allowing it to continue.
Lastly to the girls, while only one girl will walk away with the title, you all have the capability to go home with great experiences and new friends. Have fun, and best of luck!
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Featuring Miss indiana Ava Hillman!
Dear IN Princess State Finalists:
Way to go!! I've has such a wonderful year! Nam has provided some great opportunities. I found my love for volunteering and working with kids. I've made so many friends and met some amazing people through NAM. They work so hard to ensure we all have a memorable experience!! Nationals was unbelievable! I loved Disney and seeing the ocean for the first time. I've made so many great memories. Now, it's your turn...enjoy this amazing weekend. Make as many friends as you can and take a lot of pictures. Have fun and always be you...because you are amazing!!
Hugs and kisses...your 2016 Miss Indiana Princess
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Featuring Miss Texas Jr. Pre-Teen!
It is hard to describe my year as your 2016 Miss Texas Junior Pre-Teen, but one word would definitely be memorable! I started my year by appearing at the Grand Prairie Balloon Festival with my sister Queen Olivia. Our first of many adventures together!! Soon after I had a meet and greet with the North Richland Hills Mayor and City Council members, what an honor! Throughout my year I worked hard volunteering with my favorite organization, The Birthday Party Project which throws birthday parties for children at local homeless shelters. I loved being able to inform others of this amazing organization and having my sister queens volunteer and experience the JOY of serving others in our community. My favorite part of this year was by far NAM Nationals!!! I enjoyed all of the amazing rehearsals, meeting a new BFF Zoe from New York, spending a day at Disney, and of course the competition. I was honored to place top 5 in Spokesmodel and Actress and even top 10 in the country, WOW! As my year comes to an end I realize how very thankful I am to have had such an amazing year and can’t thank the National American Miss organization enough for these opportunities and my family for their love and support.
Hugs and Kisses,
Ella Pursley
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Featuring Muss Texas Jr. Pre-Teen Cover Girl!
"My name is Lily Howard and I am the 2016 Miss Texas Junior Pre Teen Cover Girl for National American Miss. In my time serving NAM I have given 5 speeches about how being a special needs sibling impacted my life, met some amazing families who’s special children are changing the world, and visited the scientific laboratory conducting research on CDKL5 Epilepsy Disorder using donated organs from my sister, Harper.
I would say the most important service in my life started way before I came into NAM and will continue long after, and that is the creation of Love4Lily’s Love Day. In the past 3 years we have grown from 10 people to 50 people and I hope someday it will be as big as Run4Hope. Love Day is simply about LOVE, FUN, and FRIENDSHIP! It is not about raising money, a disorder, any one person, or cause. It is people coming together to Show LOVE, Share LOVE, and Be LOVED!
The most powerful word in the world is LOVE because it holds everything together.” ~Lily Howard
In using this on social media you can tag Love Day at (https://www.facebook.com/LoveDay4U/)
You can tag run4hope at (https://www.facebook.com/RUN4HOPEHOPE4HARPER/)
You can also link to Love4Lily.com
Thank you!
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Featuring Miss Texas Pre-Teen and National American Miss Pre-Teen!
Dear State Contestants,
Ever since I was a little girl, I always wanted to be a
princess. NAM helped me make that dream come true. When I won the Miss Texas Preteen title, it
was one of the best experiences of my life!
I was crowned by one of my best friends who I met through NAM years
ago. Winning the title opened the door
to so many possibilities, such as planning a fun run for the AVM Research
Foundation, organizing a photo shoot with my Texas sister queens, helping other
girls at NAM open calls and trainings and going to Nationals to compete for the
National American Miss Preteen title.
I could not wait to meet all the other contestants at
Nationals. I love all the themed rehearsals,
especially the Disney princess theme where I dressed up like Cinderella. Going to Disneyland was a blast especially
riding the rides and bonding with my mom!!!
I even went outside of my box and tried something new by competing in
the Talent competition. I placed in the
top five! Not only did I come home with
the best dancer award from the neon-themed party event, but I came home with
the National title! I was absolutely on
top of the world!!!
Meeting new people, visiting new places and making
unforgettable memories...NAM has given me all of these wonderful gifts! I have met so many people that I can call my
best friends because of NAM. I am so
humbled and blessed to be apart of an organization that encourages girls to
dream BIG and promotes self-confidence.
NAM has instilled in me a sense of giving back to others, striving to be
the best I can be and never giving up on my dreams!
Thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Mayes, all of the NAM staff, and
my friends and family for supporting me in all of my endeavors and keeping me
grounded! I love you all!!!
To all the contestants this year, always be the best version
of yourself! Have fun and make memories
that will last a lifetime!!!!
Love,
Joey McDowell
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Featuring Miss Kansas Princess!
It's hard to believe it has been one year since I was crowned. After coming in first runner up The last two years you can imagine the look on my face when my name was called as the new 2016 Nationals American Miss Kansas Princess. My dreams were coming true right before my eyes. After being crowned I didn't waste a single second of my rain. I got the privilege of donating all of books and school supplies from the princess division to the KAKE news school drive and I was even on the TV. I spent the next few months volunteering my time with different organizations that benefit children with special needs. Before heading to nationals I even got to be on the radio Q 92 the beat and would live on the air. Then it was off of Hollywood. I got to meet so many new friends from across the country. We Spent the day in Disneyland and even took a tour of Hollywood and played in the sand at the Santa Monica pier. But one of my favorite parts was being on that stage. I made top five in actress, second runner-up in best resume and even won the Spirit stick. I even placed 11 out of 40 girls at nationals so close the top 10 but that's OK because the best part about nationals was all of the friends that I made! The hardest part was the goodbyes, but I know that they will be mine Namily forever.
Thank you so much to National American Miss for creating an amazing organization for girls like me learn valuable life lessons that I will take with me forever.
For the final time I will forever be your 2016 Miss Kansas princess Averie Mountain!
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Featuring Miss Pennsylvania Jr. Pre-Teen Cover Girl!
Welcome everyone, where do I start? This time
last year I was crowned 2016
Pennsylvania Jr. Pre-Teen Cover Girl.
When I was crowned, my first duty was to deliver
school supplies that were
donated by all NAM contestants, to Phineas Davis
School.
Pennsylvania Capitol.
I arranged time with some of my sister Queens to
attend Ronald McDonald House,
where we baked desserts for the families.
In our community, we have an area called the “Healing
Field” where flags are
placed to remember each person who died on September
11th. I volunteered my
time there by greeting people and handed out
programs.
This past year, I was also involved in volunteering at
a pre-opening charity event to
help Olivia’s House raise money, where they were able
to meet their goal.
Make a Wish kids also decorated Christmas ornaments
that I purchased for them.
I volunteered at 2017 Pennsylvania Miss Amazing and at
Tiara’s Loving Children
Pageant which are for special needs contestants,
serving as a support buddy and
a walking inspiration to them.
support from family and friends, I was able to collect
three full boxes!
My classroom also wrote letters to soldiers.
Time flies by so fast and before you know it, NAM Open
Calls have arrived. This
is one last stop as visiting royalty.
To my successor: “Never give up and always
continue to follow your dreams!
I wish you all the luck in the world so please carry
this title with pride.”
Use this year to spread awareness and show others what
National American Miss
has to offer. Thank you to my family and
friends and my wonderful director Mrs. Sandy.
To Mom and Dad, I thank you both for
instilling in me the values of commitment
For the last time, I am your 2016 National American
Miss Jr. Pre-Teen Cover Girl,
Brianna Moscarell.
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In the Spotlight is Miss Oregon Jr. Pre-Teen!
Hearing my name called as the new Miss Oregon Jr. Preteen
was one of the happiest moments in my life. When I started with National
American Miss back in 2013 I had never done a pageant before. I had so much fun
meeting new people and walking the stage. The high light for me in being
crowned in 2016 was that my close pageant friend got to crown me. The year
before when she won I said to her, “next year you will crown me”, and it came
true. Becoming the Oregon state queen was a dream come true for me.
In my year of reign, I participated in parades with my
sister queens. I love volunteering, giving back and helping out in my
community. This year I organized a love for animals drive at my elementary
school that helped support our local animal shelter. Volunteered with my local
relay for life organization and worked on several projects with our Salvation
Army.
I want to thank my Mom, Dad and Grandma Lisa for supporting
me 100% in everything that I do. My auntie Karen who always comes through for
me for all of my sewing needs. The rest of my family for always rooting me on
and encouraging me in my journey. And of course all of my pageant friends that
I have made through the years. You guys I will always have a special bond with
through the pageants.
Always remember Think, Can, Do…. If you think you can’t,
tell yourself you can and then Do it. National American Miss has shown me that
you can achieve anything that you work for.
Signing off for the last time, I am your National American
Miss Oregon Jr. Preteen 2016, Kaydence Mckuhn.
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Featuring Miss Oregon!
The running joke
in my friend group this last year has been that I am not what one would call a
"pageant girl." And yet, this is precisely why I chose to compete in
National American Miss. This unique pageant, with the sole focus of bettering the
world by uplifting and encouraging the young woman in it, is a far cry from the
stereotypical pageant that I and many others are used to. What started as
curiosity and trepidation for being on stage and being judged for my ability to
be myself has turned into gratitude beyond measure for the growth I have
achieved. National American Miss provided the spring board that my insecure,
painfully shy, and socially nervous 14-year-old self needed to blossom and grow
into the confident, out spoken, social butterfly that I am today.
National
American Miss was different than anything I expected. Even in the registration
line my first day, I knew that no matter what came next, I was going to learn
and grow from that experience. The Washington team was so welcoming and graciously
answered any and all questions that I had, which were many. While I did not win
that year, I was bitten by the NAM bug, and returned again the next year. Due
to family circumstances and moving, I did not return to NAM again until I was
19 years old, having come home for the summer after my first year of college. I
had lost confidence, as most people do after a brutal year of schooling, and I
needed a pick-me-up. My mother in her infinite wisdom suggested I try National
American Miss one more time. How inspired she was! Looking back at my NAM
memories, I realized that I loved NAM because I was never made to feel weird or
like I didn't belong, but that was because every girl there had something in
common, something that every NAM girl
has in common: we want to make a difference. Gandhi said it best, "the
best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." I
needed to find myself again, and NAM helped me do so by encouraging me to look
outside myself to how I could help others.
This year, I have had the opportunity
to volunteer in individual events with my sister queens, ranging from
celebration parades to suicide awareness campaign events. On my own, I have had
the opportunity to volunteer with Brigham Young University's Anti-Human Trafficking
Club's Clean the Stadium event, volunteer with the Provo chapter of Head Start
with pre-school children, as well as spend time every week volunteering as a
4-H mentor for an at risk youth in the area. What many people don't know is
that 4-H is not just a youth program for learning the tools of farming and
ranching, it is also a club geared toward helping youth of all ages find
direction and acceptance by serving their community. The 4-H pledge recited at
every group activity goes as follows:
I
pledge my head to clearer thinking,
My
heart to greater loyalty,
My
hands to larger service,
and my health to better living,
for
my club, my community, my country, and my
world.
I fell in love with this group,
because this is exactly what National American Miss strives to do through
pageantry! I have found the discipline and determination can be learned just as
effectively through wearing a sparkling gown as they can be through shucking
stalls (although neither is better than the other to be certain.)
While my time as the 2016 National
American Miss Oregon may be winding down and coming to a close, the lessons I
have learned and the personal growth I have had because of my experiences in
NAM will last a lifetime. I feel truly blessed beyond measure for this time I
have been given to represent my home state of Oregon. Like any true Oregonian,
I've learned to embrace the age old adage to dance and play in the rain despite
the seldom occurring Utah rain storms, and encourage all to keep looking for
fortuitous moments to do the same!
National American Miss is all about embracing
who you are, whether that's the science geek, the "girly
girl," or even the person still figuring out exactly what you want to do,
knowing that will likely change a hundred times before anything solid sticks.
You are the only you, a truly unique and wonderful person trying to make a
difference, so revel in that and hold your head high. No matter the outcome,
and no matter how cliché it sounds, you are a winner for trying, and you need
only to look at my personal transformation to see that.
Thank you National American Miss!
Sincerely,
Gabrielle Elrod
2016 National American Miss Oregon
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Featuring Miss Washington Princess!
“At the end of the
day – your feet should be dirty, your hair should be messy and your eyes should
be SPARKLING!”
That was the opening line in my intro both in 2015 when I
was first runner up and again in 2016 where I was crowned your 2016 Miss
Washington Princess. It was definitely a dream come true. And what an amazing year I’ve had. I love
being a kid and I am truly blessed to be able to have a family that encourages
me to live out loud, play, dance, laugh, follow my heart and be true to myself.
In September, on
behalf of National American Miss and 2016 WA state contestants I donated the
books and school supplies collected during pageant week to Charlie’s Dinosaur.
A non-profit organization that helps children in the foster care system.
Charlie’s Dinosaur is a local organization in my hometown. It’s been an amazing
year representing my state and giving back through organizations like theirs. I
was also able to participate in a Toys for Tots toy drive during the Christmas
holiday where I spent the day with Ron
and Don from KIRO radio and Miss Washington
USA 2016 - Alicia Cooper.
NATIONALS WAS
INCREDIBLE! I made so many new friends, laughed and giggled, danced and
cheered the entire week. Disneyland with all my family and friends was AMAZING!
I especially loved the warm weather. It rains A LOT in Washington so it was
nice to get some much-needed sunshine during the Thanksgiving holiday.
I was third runner-up
at Nationals and placed in many optional contests as well! I had so much fun
and worked so hard it hardly felt as if I was competing. My experience with
National American Miss has been the best EVER!
My advice to all the 2017 contestants: “Be yourself! Laugh,
smile and have FUN!” There is no other pageant system quite like National
American Miss and I am so excited to spend many more years making memories and
growing up with National American Miss. I could not be more proud of my year
and I have memories and friends that will surely last a lifetime.
2016 Miss Washington Princess – Bella Baker-Barnhart
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Featuring Miss Oregon Jr. Teen!
Congratulations 2017 Oregon State finalists!! I can't wait to meet you all and get this fun filled pageant weekend started. My hope is that you all have a blast- meeting new friends, sharing quality time with your family, and trying something new.
My year as Miss Oregon Jr Teen has been a true blessing. My organization, Queen of the Jungle successfully raised an additional $6,000 for The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, bringing the current total raised to nearly $20,000. I was interviewed by several media outlets, speaking about the importance of youth volunteerism, as well as my role as the national youth ambassador for The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. I was even able to talk about National American Miss and the impact it has made on my life over the last 10 years. My sister queens and I had a blast riding in the Beaverton Parade together. I also volunteered at The Ronald McDonald House, made sack lunches and delivered them to the homeless, took homemade dog treats to the Oregon Humane Society, and hosted a holiday toy drive.
The national pageant in California was so much fun! I was able reunite with NAMily that I've met through the years I've competed at NAM. I had a great time hanging out with my sister queens at the car drawing, and I will never forget our tradition of having a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with friends at Mimi's. I was honored to be awarded 1st ru in Top Model, 2nd ru in Fashion Model, 2nd ru in Most Promising Model, and to have FINALLY attained my longtime goal of winning National Casual Wear Model!
I encourage all of you to set goals for yourself and never give up. After all, anything IS possible! I will never forget the past 10 years I've spent with NAM, or the people I've met along the way. Thank you for shaping me into the confident young woman I am today. My most important piece of advice is to always stay true to you and remember that it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. I can't wait to see where my journey takes me next!
Best wishes,
2016 Miss Oregon Jr Teen Madeline Monlux
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Featuring Miss Washington Jr. Pre-Teen!
Walt Disney once said, "All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to purse them." It was my courage that lead me back to the NAM stage last year. I had competed for the title of National American Miss Jr Pre-Teen for the two years before. I was not going to compete last year and 1 month before pageant weekend, my courage took me to my Mom and insisted that I try one more time. It was my courage and determination that allowed me to be crowned your 2016 National American Miss Jr Pre-Teen.
What I was most excited for was the trip to Disneyland to compete for the national title. I got to travel to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive and see the Hollywood sign in person! Of course going to Disney is every girls dream. I loved the rides, characters and food. However, my FAVORITE moment was meeting Chewbacca! He wrapped me in his arms in a giant hug and we had the best conversation, because of course I speak wookie. While all the trips we took were amazing, it was meeting all the girls from around the country that made the week so special. I loved spending time with girls that had dreams as big as mine and I know we are headed for dreams even bigger. The friendships I make with my pageant sisters will last a lifetime!
What I was most excited for was the trip to Disneyland to compete for the national title. I got to travel to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive and see the Hollywood sign in person! Of course going to Disney is every girls dream. I loved the rides, characters and food. However, my FAVORITE moment was meeting Chewbacca! He wrapped me in his arms in a giant hug and we had the best conversation, because of course I speak wookie. While all the trips we took were amazing, it was meeting all the girls from around the country that made the week so special. I loved spending time with girls that had dreams as big as mine and I know we are headed for dreams even bigger. The friendships I make with my pageant sisters will last a lifetime!
To my Washington sister queens. It was unfortunate that due to crazy schedules and horrible roads this winter, we did not get to spend a lot of time together. You all are an amazing group of women. I loved the time I got to spend with you at Nationals and cheering you on while you competed on the big stage!
These big dreams and goals would not be possible without the support of my amazing family and friends! My mom and dad are my biggest fans and it's always my goal to make them so very proud of me. My JG is a miracle worker and is the reason I look so good on stage! I LOVED that my Mimi and Papa were able to come to Nationals and watch me compete. They made my cheering section complete! To the best coach ever, Jeremy Monlux. It takes a special person to keep me focused and encourage me to embrace my inner Star Wars geek!
Being a part of the NAM family has allowed me to build confidence that will positively impact everything I do! To the girls competing this weekend, you are incredible just for stepping onto this stage! Walk into the room with a smile and the confidence of knowing just how amazing you are! Take if from me, NEVER GIVE UP! If you don't succeed, come back and try again! I came back again and made my dreams come true!
May the Force Be With You!
Kendall Beasley
Your 2016 National American Miss Jr Pre-Teen
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Featuring Miss Washington Jr. Teen!
From the time I've been competing in NAM and throughout my reign as the 2016 Miss Washington Jr. Teen, I've learned so many valuable life lessons that I will always remember. I gained confidence and skills that strengthened my character. NAM has taught me the importance of grit, living with purpose, and most importantly, how to embrace failure courageously. I have competed many times for the crown and persevered. Though it was challenging, I am thankful for not giving up, because taking risks and having the will to aspire my dream polished me into the person I am today. Holding the title of Miss Washington Jr. Teen allowed me to focus on the platform that is of the greatest importance to me: education and youth leadership. With the crown, I was able to represent NAM in the classrooms of a variety of schools, from kids who lived in impoverished places where they lack resources, to those in advanced learning environments who are gifted with opportunities. Regardless, I experienced first-hand the significance of being a role model. From my visits to elementary classrooms of different school districts, I realized how fortunate I am to have had an excellent education growing up and how I eagerly want to give back to those in need. I want to continue to take action and inspire young children to be good in school and emerge as future leaders. I was able to distribute the school supply donations collected from the state pageant to various schools for the Seattle and Auburn School District. I also donated and participated at the Hopelink school supplies drive last fall. Reading poems from my favorite poetry book by Shel Silverstein: Where the Sidewalk Ends, and teaching a class through a reading test exercise was my favorite part of engaging with the students. It truly warms my heart when young kids can be so appreciative and full of gratitude. It was fun helping out with the Bingo stand at a school’s field day and helped during one of the first grade classroom science experiments involving bridges made out of spaghetti and marshmallows. In addition to working in classrooms, I assisted faculty kids through activities with my school’s Community Engagement Program and packaged meals with Feed Your Neighbor at Merrimack College and the Rise Against Hunger Packaging Event. I volunteer at Food Lifeline Seattle during school breaks and walked for Girl Up’s Global 5k. While attending a boarding school at the East Coast, I have the opportunity of serving as a senior board member of the Non-Sibi Society where we execute kind projects around the school and greater community. It was a privilege to be featured in the Phillipian: the oldest preparatory newspaper in the nation! I would like to thank the NAM Organization for creating this pageant and helping girls build confidence, allowing girls like me to realize their dreams at an early age. Many thanks to all the wonderful people who made my reign a very memorable one!
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