Miss Missouri Champions Media Literacy

Ashley Berry, a member of the Psi Chapter at the University of Alabama, was crowned Miss Missouri in June 2024. She is studying news media and political science.

How do you use your platform to impact the world?

As Miss Missouri, I use my platform to champion media literacy and empower women. Media literacy is essential in today’s digital world, where misinformation is rampant. Through my Media Smart initiative, I teach students how to critically analyze and verify the media they consume, helping them become informed, responsible citizens. By integrating media literacy into education, we can build a generation that interrogates information rather than passively accepting it.

Additionally, I’m passionate about empowering women by promoting their voices and challenging stereotypes. By giving young women the tools to engage with the media critically, I aim to help them take control of their narratives and become confident leaders.

What is a lesson you’ve learned about the spirit of sisterhood?

The spirit of sisterhood is about lifting each other and supporting one another through challenges and successes. As a member of Alpha Gamma Delta’s Psi Chapter at the University of Alabama, I’ve learned how powerful it is to be part of a community of women who encourage each other to grow and achieve our goals. The Miss America sisterhood shares these same values, with women supporting each other in service, leadership and empowerment. Both sisterhoods have taught me when women come together, we all rise and shine.

What does "to develop and prize health and vigor of body" mean to you?

This line from Alpha Gamma Delta’s Purpose means embracing a holistic approach to well-being. It’s about valuing our physical health, not just for how we look, but for how it enables us to live fully, with energy and resilience. This line encourages us to prioritize fitness, self-care, and mental wellness to be the best versions of ourselves—strong, confident and ready to take on life’s challenges. It reminds us that our health is a foundation for personal growth and supporting the people around us.