Why Everyone Needs to Watch the Miss America Pageant

On September 13, I will wake up as giddy as a child on Christmas morning.

At 9 PM that night, the Miss America Final Pageant will begin.

It’s not that I particularly enjoy watching women strut in bikinis (although it shows tremendous confidence and dedication). I don’t watch for the puppets or the red solo cups (although the entertainment value is definitely fun). I don’t even watch for a YouTube-worthy onstage question (let’s face it- these gals are just too quick for that).

I watch to empower and celebrate the 52 college-educated, service-oriented, ambitious, kind, and deserving women competing for the job of their dreams.

And you should too.

                

In 2006, a study by the University of Calgary found that 60% of college students admitted a celebrity had influenced their personal values, beliefs, attitudes, and opinions (Boon & Lomore). In a world where celebrities have a tendency to make rash and inconsiderate decisions, wouldn’t it be a great idea to “celebritize” a woman who not only values education but also service and hard work?

Take a look at the 52 contestants and the only commonality between their looks is that they are all beautiful. They are short, tall, strong, skinny, built, tan, and fair. As is the case every year, there is no “one size fits all” for the Miss America Class of 2016. Just look at the winners over the past 95 years, and you will see that the even as society’s beauty standards have changed, the winners have something in common: they are confident in their skin, which makes them beautiful.

Not only does Miss America celebrate all academic achievements, but they also take special care to reach out to women in the STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Each year, five Miss America finalists are awarded $5,000 scholarships to continue their education in one of these fields. This years nominees include a nurse, two medical school students, and science majors from top-notch universities.  

Miss America is relevant- the contestants are confident, ambitious, resilient, and most of all, unique. I want to highlight some who have really caught my eye- because they are so true to who they are and what they stand for (#girlpower). Now in no way is this a list of predictions whatsoever. I just have raging girl crushes on a ton of these ladies and I had to let them out:

1. Miss New York Jamie Lynn Macchia

Okay, so a four-peat is too predictable but it would still be SO COOL. Just look at this girl- she seems like so much fun. Just a little bucket of sunshine. But she's from NY, so you know she's got that fierce side (looking at you Mallory/Nina/Kira).

2. Miss Alabama Meg McGuffin

Alabama is what I amma (fan of, that is). Drop dead gorgeous and her platform consists of smashing scales on the Auburn football field. That's pretty fabulous. Plus her nickname is "Egg McMuffin." And her talent involves wearing a spooky mask and then taking it off mid-dance while en pointe. I just love her and that "Healthy is Not a Size" platform. (Especially as I sit here eating ice cream whoops.)

3. Miss Vermont Alayna Westcom

Miss Vermont is going to be performing a science experiment for her talent. This is the first science experiment to ever grace the stage- what a brilliant way to engage young women interested in STEM and also stand out from the bunch. I'm geeking out. I hope we get to see it on Sunday!

4. Miss Rhode Island Alexandra Curtis

Okay, okay, so I know she's Miss Rhode Island but this stunner is actually a California girl at heart. And a former NAM queen. And president of Syracuse University. And Ursula from The Little Mermaid. And, most impressive, a CHICKEN WING EATING CHAMPION. I like a well rounded Miss America, and this sassy sophisticated leading lady could win the vote.

5. Miss Iowa Taylor Wiebers

Okay, so this chick glows. And a very reliable source says she is a rockstar. With a prelim talent win under her belt and a personality that just radiates, what's not to love?

6. Miss Idaho Kalie Wright

Idahon't know what's not to adore about this one. Absolutely stunning, talented, tall, and did I mention beautiful? Okay I know it's not the most important thing but she seems like a gem. Also her platform is supporting our troops which is really nice. And she plays guitar and sings, which is so Taylor Swift.

7. Miss California Bree Morse

You all knew we were going to end up here. Talk about stunning, yet relatable. Brilliant, but also humble. I was lucky enough to actually get to compete right after Bree at Miss California this June (a blessing: absolutely) and I can tell you firsthand she has what it takes to be a knockout Miss A. Watch for her to sparkle on that stage and you'll fall in love too. Plus, she's a DG. Put your eggs in that basket folks, CA is going far!

And, we can't forget a special shoutout to the queen,

Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev

From bawling when she was crowned one year ago, to watching her entire year unfold like a beautiful dream, I have watched this girl take the Miss America Organization to new heights. Did you see her on red carpets? Flawless. Her dedication to her platform, Safe Horizons, and protecting women against domestic violence with her "Put a Nail in it Campaign?" Off the hook. Look out for her killer wardrobe, her brilliant commentary, and of course, a ridiculously bright future ahead of her. Yeah, Kira rocks. 

If you can find an hour every week to keep up with the Kardashians, you can find two hours to pay attention to some women who really deserve the spotlight. You know I'll be rocking my "Golden State of Mind" shirt, but I really wish every single woman competing this week the absolute best. I know that the right girl will win and I can't wait to see who it is! 

Thanks for making it through my bad puns.
Xo,
Jane

Photos courtesy of Miss America Organization.