Couture
SHOP OUR SIGNATURE COUTURE COLLECTIONS IN-STORE OR DESIGN YOUR DREAM DRESS WITH SHERRI HILL OR JOVANI.
Appointments required, call/text 801-355-5400 to inquire and book your shopping experience.
LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Welcome to the Miss Utah 2025 Competition! We are excited to gather and celebrate our organization’s 99-year history of empowering women to lead. Whether this is your frst time joining us or you’ve been part of the Miss Utah Family for decades, thank you for supporting our program, volunteers, contestants, and mission this week.
At its core, Miss America is a service organization. While proudly providing scholarships and fostering personal and professional growth, the spirit of service defnes our program both on a national and state level. Miss America’s Community Service Initiative element (formerly called the “Platform” and “Social Impact Initiative”) originated in the Miss Utah program before the national organization adopted it nationwide in the late 1980s. Each young woman who participates in our program — regardless of how she places in a competition — is given a platform to promote a purpose larger than herself and create measurable lasting change in her community.
These opportunities are made possible through one of the strongest volunteer networks in the
state. The Miss Utah Family is comprised of former titleholders, family members, teachers, community volunteers, united in support of Miss America’s mission of empowering women to lead. Our volunteers aren’t just organizers. They are mentors, role models, and champions of character, helping young women gain confdence, leadership skills, and purpose. Though much of their work happens behinds the scenes, our volunteers’ collective impact is both powerful and deeply personal.
This week, we honor those who lead with a servant’s heart. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our local and state volunteers, who are the beating heart of the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization. We celebrate Paris Matthews, our outgoing Miss Utah, and applaud her advocacy for hospitalized children. We also recognize our 47 contestants, their unique passions, and the lasting change they have already enacted in their communities across the state. These remarkable young women truly embody Miss America’s values of service, scholarship, success, style, and sisterhood.
As we look ahead to 2026, we approach a milestone that is
both humbling and historic: Miss Utah’s 100th anniversary. For nearly a century, the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization has provided young women with the tools to lead, serve, and succeed. As we prepare to honor 100 years of service, we are reminded of the thousands of lives touched by this program and the enduring legacy we are privileged to uphold. We invite you to join us next June for our centennial celebration! More details will be made available in coming months.
On behalf of the entire Miss Utah team, thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support of our program empowers the next generation of leaders to rise with confdence, vision, and a heart for service. Here’s to an amazing competition week, and the century ahead!
Sincerely,
Maison Wilson
Executive Director
Miss Utah Scholarship Organization, Inc.
Letter from the Executive Director
Who will be Miss Utah 2025?
Competition Scoring
Competition Order
Schedule of Events
Preliminary Competition Program
Final Night Competition Program
Competition Hosts
Meet the Judges
2025 Scholarship Awards
Forever Miss Utahs
Miss Utah’s Teen Program
Meet Brynn Lindley, Miss Utah’s Teen
Miss Utah’s Honeybees
Local Volunteers
State Volunteers
2025 Local Volunteer Award
2025 Legacy Award
Miss Utah 2024 Results in Review
Miss Utah Refection The
Photo by Chad Braithwaite
JOIN US FOR AN EVENT WITH KENDRA SCOTT!
Give back to the Utah Scholarship Foundation for scholarships awarded at the Miss Utah 2025 Competition.
DATE & TIME
Tuesday, June 10th, 12:00-3:00 p.m. Kendra Scott at City Creek Center 50 S Main St. Suite 271 SLC, UT 84102
DETAILS
Shop for Good with Kendra Scott, and 20% of your purchase will be donated to the Utah Scholarship Foundation for scholarships awarded at the Miss Utah 2025 Competition. Mention “Miss Utah” when making your in-store purchase during Miss Utah week.
Shop online between June 9th-15th and apply code at checkout at www.kendrascott.com for 20% of your purchase to benefit the cause.
GIVEBACK-JINBK
WHO WILL SHE BE?
1 Ashtyn Giles
Miss Iron County
3
5
Hometown: Cedar City
@ashtyn.giles
Education: Studying nursing at Southern Utah University
Talent: Contemporary Dance - “As I Love”
Community Service Initiative: Happy Hearts
4
@allysasullivan
Hometown: Murray
Education: Studying social work at the University of Utah
Talent: Classical Piano - “Rachmaninof’s Prelude in C# Minor”
Community Service Initiative: Let’s Talk Suicide
County
Hometown: Draper
@sista_twista
Education: Studying business administration at Western Governors University
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “Easy as Life”
Community Service Initiative: Cool to Care: Increasing Passion and Compassion
@kylie.hallett
Hometown: Riverton
Education: Studying pre-dental hygiene at Salt Lake Community College
Talent: Classical Vocal - “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again”
Community Service Initiative: More Than Your Dress Size: Inspiring Inclusion Through Body Positivity
Hometown: American Fork
@brynncarnesecca
Education: Studying journalism at Brigham Young University
Talent: Classical Piano - “L’Alouette (The Lark)”
Community Service Initiative: Envelopes of Hope: Providing Light and Community for Incarcerated Individuals
@07marissanicole
Hometown: Pleasant Grove
Education: Studying health sciences at Salt Lake Community College
Talent: Ballet en Pointe - “Epic Finale”
Community Service Initiative: ACT: Teaching Awareness, Connection, and Technology Habits
@maddie.dahl
Hometown: Heber City
Education: Studying biology and chemistry at the University of Utah
Talent: Cheerleading Stunt Routine - “Are You Ready For This?”
Community Service Initiative: Safety in Sports: Athletic Abuse Prevention
6 Shaye Johnson
Miss Southern Utah
Hometown: American Fork
@shaye.johnson
Education: Studying nursing at Utah Valley University
Talent: Lyrical Dance - “Love Like This”
Community Service Initiative: The Red Heart Project: Being CPR Prepared and Saving Lives
8 Brooklyn Kranendonk
Miss Snow Canyon
Hometown: St. George
@miss.brooklynk
Education: Studying business marketing at Utah Tech University
Talent: American Sign Language - “Praying”
Community Service Initiative: Know or It’s “No”
10 Noelle Condie
Miss Deseret
Hometown: Gunnison
@noelle.condie
Education: Studying political science and communications at the University of Utah
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “Don’t Rain On My Parade”
Community Service Initiative: This Mind of Mine: Mental Health Awareness and Resource Education
Allysa Sullivan
Miss Murray
Alexsys Campbell Miss Salt Lake
7 Kylie Hallett Miss Riverton
9 Brynn Carnesecca
Miss American Fork
2 Marissa Brown Miss Pleasant Grove
Madeline Dahl Miss Wasatch County
WHO WILL SHE BE?
11 Lakely Brotherson
Miss Sanpete County
Hometown: Wales
@lakely.brotherson
Education: Studying criminal psychology at Snow College
Talent: Power Tap - “Top Gun Medley”
Community Service Initiative: Give to Live: Organ Donation Advocacy
15 Emily Harris
Hometown: Pleasant Grove
@kaili.ruth
Education: Graduate from Utah Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “To My Angels”
Community Service Initiative: Dare2Speak: Speaking Up About Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Education
Miss Juab County
Hometown: Nephi
12 Chloe Henry
Miss Orem
Hometown: Spanish Fork
@chloe_boie
Education: Graduate from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theater
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “Back to Before”
Community Service Initiative: Confdence in Me
@eemilyyharris
Education: Certifed Nursing Assistant through the Utah CNA Training Center
Talent: Lyrical Dance - “Got It In You”
Community Service Initiative: The Buddy Project: One Friend Can Change Your Whole World
17 Alyssa Derbidge
Miss Beaver County
Hometown: Beaver
@savannaspencerr
Hometown: Roy
Education: Graduate from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science in Biology
Talent: HERStory - “Brushing Up On Dreams”
Community Service Initiative: Happy Teeth
@alyssaderbidge
Education: Studying communications at Southern Utah University
Talent: HERStory - “Finding My Voice”
Community Service Initiative: Sense of Self: Supporting Foster Kids and the System
19 Jakenzie Jones
Miss Payson
Hometown: Payson
@queenhelene21
Hometown: Roy
Education: Graduate from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Strategic Communications
Talent: Aerial Hammock - “Toxic”
Community Service Initiative: Pages to Progress: Empowering Young Minds One Book at a Time
Miss Northern Utah
@jakenziejones
Education: Studying dance education at Snow College
Talent: Lyrical Dance - “Over the Rainbow”
Community Service Initiative: Unleash Your Inner Spark
Hometown: Ephraim
@texasred770
Education: Graduate from Weber State University with dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Interior Design and Professional Sales
Talent: Fiddle - “The Devil on the Orange Blossom Special”
Community Service Initiative: Inspiring Patriotism: Past, Present, and Future
@mariannebarrus
Hometown: Heber City
Education: Graduate from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Talent: Classical Piano - “Chopin Op. 10 No. 12 Etude in C Minor, ‘Revolutionary’”
Community Service Initiative: We Empower: Educating Utah’s Youth on Emotional Resilience
13 Kaili Ruth Miss Greater Zion
14 Savanna Spencer Miss Bonneville
16 Helene Lam
Miss Roy
18 Anna Johnson
20 Marianne Barrus
Miss Nebo
WHO WILL SHE BE?
21 Drew Russell
Miss Jordanelle
Hometown: Midway
@drewbiecaroline
Education: Studying health, society, and policy at the University of Utah
Talent: Classical Ballet en Pointe - “Swan Lake Pas de Trois Variation”
Community Service Initiative: Adaptive Resources: Empowering Youth with Special Needs Through Dance
Hometown: Salem
22 Zoey Fawson
Miss Garfield County
@brooklyn.leifson
Education: Studying communication studies at Utah Tech University
Talent: Character Dance - “Let Me Be Your Star”
Community Service Initiative: Go the Extra Mile for a Healthy Lifestyle
@marisa_weiker
Hometown: Roy
Education: Studying special education at Weber State University
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “Dyin’ Ain’t So Bad”
Community Service Initiative: Anything is Possible
Hometown: Panguitch
@zoeyfawson
Education: Studying elementary education at Southern Utah University
Talent: HERStory - “Stitching My Way Through Life”
Community Service Initiative: Empowering Children Through Quilting: A Path to Creativity and Confdence
@skylynn_basso
Hometown: Wellington
Education: Certifed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
Talent: Contemporary Dance - “Time in a Bottle”
Community Service Initiative: Safe Steps Safe K.I.D.S.: Emergency Preparedness for Children
Miss Rocky Mountain
@natalie.edwardss
Hometown: Payson
Education: Graduate from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “My Days”
Community Service Initiative: Money Talks: Empowering Teens Through Financial Literacy
29 Grace Ehinger
Hometown: Spanish Fork
30
@grace.ehinger
Education: Studying marketing at Brigham Young University
Talent: American Sign Language - “Fall on Me”
Community Service Initiative: Invest in Health with Cancer Screenings
Hometown: Midway
@maddiart
Education: Graduate from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting
Talent: Classical Ballet en Pointe - “Kitri’s Entrance”
Community Service Initiative: Artistry in Action: Art for All Abilities!
@sami_lamb
Hometown: Salem
Education: Studying exercise science at Brigham Young University
Talent: Contemporary Dance - “Landmines”
Community Service Initiative: Lifting Lives with Literacy
@shalycerauhala
Hometown: Wellington
Education: Licensed real estate agent through Stringham Schooling
Talent: Vocal/Guitar - “Hallelujah”
Community Service Initiative: Caring About Health is Loving Yourself!
25 Marisa Weiker
Miss Deer Creek
26 Maddalena Willis
27 Natalie Edwards
Miss Greater Salt Lake
28 Samantha Weber Miss Salem
Miss Aspen Hills
Shalyce Rauhala
Miss Carbon County
23 Brooklyn Leifson
Miss Red Rocks
24 Skylynn Basso Miss Legacy
WHO WILL SHE BE?
31 Elle Miller
Miss Heber Valley
33
Hometown: Heber City
@ellea.miller
Education: Studying pre-nursing at Brigham Young University
Talent: Contemporary Dance - “Put Your Head on My Shoulder”
Community Service Initiative: Prioritizing Access to Women’s Healthcare
@glory.anna.thomas
Hometown: Orem
Education: Graduate from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science in Experience Design and Management
Talent: Classical Vocal - “Nella Fantasia”
Community Service Initiative: Be the ONE to Make the Diference: GLO with Kindness
35 Rebekah Wall
Miss Springville/Mapleton
Hometown: Mapleton
@_rebekah_w
Education: Studying health science at Utah Valley University
Talent: Contemporary Ballet - “The Sound of Silence”
Community Service Initiative: The Strength of a Powerful Mind: Embracing Possibilities Over Limitations
37 Emmy Slichta
Miss Bluffdale
Hometown: Blufdale
32 Erika Dalton
Miss Utah County
34
36 Hope King
Hometown: Saratoga Springs
@erikajdalton
Education: Graduate from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance
Talent: Violin - “Ziguenerweisen Opus 20”
Community Service Initiative: Street Smarts: Sexual Assault Prevention
@tayler.newman
Hometown: Heber City
Education: Studying psychology and fne arts at Utah Valley University
Talent: Contemporary Ballet en Pointe - “Where the Light Touches”
Community Service Initiative: Inspiring Youth to Discover Their “Natural High”
Miss Spanish Fork
@emmyslichta
Education: Studying social work at Utah Valley University
Talent: Harp - “Paquita’s Dance”
Community Service Initiative: Educate to Empower: Raising Awareness for Mental Health
39 Haylee Lamb
Miss Davis County
Hometown: Riverton
@hopekinggg
Hometown: Spanish Fork
Education: Studying dance at Brigham Young University
Talent: Ballet en Pointe - “La Bayadere Gamzatti Variation”
Community Service Initiative: What We Do Matters
38 Alyssia Johnston
Miss Utah Tech University
@haylee_lamb
Education: Studying nursing at Western Governors University
Talent: Contemporary Dance - “Fallin’”
Community Service Initiative: The Gift You Are: Promoting Disability Education and Inclusion
@aly.daisy
Hometown: Pocatello
Education: Studying marketing at Utah Tech University
Talent: Contemporary/Lyrical Dance - “Lose Control”
Community Service Initiative: The Monthly Move Project: Changing Poverty One “STEP” at a Time
40 Jordyn Bristol Miss Timpanogos
Hometown: Lehi
@jordyxlynn
Education: Graduate from Western Governor’s University with a Master’s of Business Administration
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “They Just Keep Moving the Line”
Community Service Initiative: Food Insecurity: Outnumber Hunger
Glory Thomas Miss Salt Creek
Tayler Newman Miss Panoramaland
WHO WILL SHE BE?
41 AnaLeigha Meek Miss Lehi
43
45
47 Zoe Sewell
Hometown: Lehi
@analeighameek
Education: Studying business communications at Utah Valley University
Talent: Vocal - “I’m Here”
Community Service Initiative: Healthy Habits, Healthy Hearts: Promoting Wellness Through Mindful Movement
@tayleehunter
Hometown: Eagle Mountain
Education: Studying nursing at Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
Talent: Contemporary Dance - “Survivor”
Community Service Initiative: Abilities Beyond Disabilities: Giving Everyone a Chance in the Spotlight
42
@ryleejramsey
Hometown: Orem
Education: Studying criminal justice at Utah Valley University
Talent: Musical Theater Vocal - “I Dreamed a Dream”
Community Service Initiative: The Survivor’s Mindset Initiative: From Victim to Survivor to Fighter
@zoeasewell
Hometown: Hurricane
Education: Studying psychology at Utah Tech University
Talent: Vocal - “Tomorrow”
Community Service Initiative: Healthy Habits: 1% Better Every Day
@rianhaslam
Hometown: Herriman
Education: Graduate from Weber State University with a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy
Talent: HERStory - “When Science Meets Heart”
Community Service Initiative: Think Pink: Support, Educate, Advocate
@liliaisabellatavares
Hometown: Provo
Education: Studying pre-nursing at Brigham Young University
Talent: Olympic Weightlifting - “Run the World (Girls)”
Community Service Initiative: CPR U Ready? A Life-Saving Initiative
@charleesorensen
Hometown: Aurora
Education: Studying vocal performance at Utah Valley University
Talent: Operatic Vocal - “Queen of the Night Aria”
Community Service Initiative: Mentors Matter: Empowering Dreams, Shaping Realities
RyLee Ramsey Miss Zion
46 Charlee Sorensen Miss Provo
Rian Haslam Miss Herriman
Taylee Hunter Miss Eagle Mountain
44 Lilia Tavares Miss Freedom Festival
Miss Pioneer Valley
COMPETITION SCORING
Preliminary Scoring
30% Private Interview
10% Onstage Conversation
20% Health & Fitness
20% Talent
20% Evening Gown
Preliminary #1 Talent: Evening Gown:
Preliminary #2 Talent: Evening Gown:
Preliminary #3 Talent: Evening Gown:
Final Night Scoring
30% Composite Score
10% Onstage Conversation
20% Health & Fitness
20% Talent
20% Evening Gown
Final Conversation/Final Ballot
Preliminary Award Winners
Rookie Talent: Rookie Evening Gown: Rookie Talent: Rookie Evening Gown:
Rookie Talent: Rookie Evening Gown:
Top 15 Semi-Finalists
And the Winner is...
4th Runner-Up: 3rd Runner-Up: _________________________________
2nd Runner-Up: _________________________________
1st Runner-Up: Miss Utah 2025: _________________________________
COMPETITION ORDER
ARCHES
1. Ashtyn Giles
2. Marissa Brown
3. Allysa Sullivan
4. Madeline Dahl
5. Alexsys Campbell
6. Shaye Johnson
7. Kylie Hallett
8. Brooklyn Kranendonk
9. Brynn Carnesecca
10. Noelle Condie
11. Lakely Brotherson
12. Chloe Henry
13. Kaili Ruth
14. Savanna Spencer
15. Emily Harris
16. Helene Lam
BRYCE
17. Alyssa Derbidge
18. Anna Johnson
19. Jakenzie Jones
20. Marianne Barrus
21. Drew Russell
22. Zoey Fawson
23. Brooklyn Leifson
24. Skylynn Basso
25. Marisa Weiker
26. Maddalena Willis
27. Natalie Edwards
28. Samantha Weber
29. Grace Ehinger
30. Shalyce Rauhala
31. Elle Miller
32. Erika Dalton
33. Glory Thomas
34. Tayler Newman
35. Rebekah Wall
36. Hope King
37. Emmy Slichta
38. Alyssia Johnston
39. Haylee Lamb
40. Jordyn Bristol
41. AnaLeigha Meek
42. Rian Haslam
43. Taylee Hunter
44. Lilia Tavares
45. RyLee Ramsey
46. Charlee Sorensen
47. Zoe Sewell
Preliminary #1: Talent
Preliminary #2: Health & Fitness
Preliminary #3: Onstage Conversation Evening Gown
Preliminary #1: Onstage Conversation Evening Gown
Preliminary #2: Talent
Preliminary #3: Health & Fitness
Preliminary #1: Health & Fitness
Preliminary #2: Onstage Conversation Evening Gown
Preliminary #3: Talent
Photos by Houston M Photography (@houstonmphoto)
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EVENT SCHEDULE
Kendra Scott Scholarship Fundraiser + Shopping Event
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
12:00pm-3:00pm
Open to the Public | Kendra Scott City Creek
The fundraiser continues all week!
Mention “Miss Utah” in store or use the code GIVEBACK-JINBK online at www.kendrascott.com through June 15th, and 20% of your purchase will be donated to the Utah Scholarship Foundation for scholarships awarded at the Miss Utah 2025 Competition.
Show Us Your Shoes Parade
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
6:30pm
Open to the Public | This Is The Place Heritage Park Plaza
Kick of the week with us as we honor a beloved Miss America tradition. This event is free to the public and will feature our titleholders in costumes and decorated shoes that celebrate their communities around the state.
Contestant Party with Miss Utah’s Honeybees
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
6:30pm
Credentialed Event | Hilton SLC Center
Contestants and Honeybees will spend the evening “Dancing Through Life” at a Wicked-themed party. They will be served dinner, show of their style, and take the Miss America Little Sisters’ #PinkyPromise pledge.
Open Competition Rehearsals
Thursday, June 12, 2025
Friday, June 13, 2025
Credentialed Events | Capitol Theatre
Purchase your rehearsal pass at www.missutah.org (while supplies last).
Preliminary Competition #1
Thursday, June 12, 2025
7:00pm
Ticketed Event | Capitol Theatre
Contestant visitation to follow in the theatre lobby.
www.missutah.org
Preliminary Competition #2
Friday, June 13, 2025
3:00pm
Ticketed Event | Capitol Theatre
Contestant visitation to follow in the theatre lobby.
Preliminary Competition #3
Friday, June 13, 2024
7:00pm
Ticketed Event | Capitol Theatre
It’s Miss Utah Goes Red Night! All attendees are invited to wear red to this competition to support Miss America’s partnership with the American Heart Association. Contestant visitation to follow in the theatre lobby.
Hive of Honor Awards Brunch
Saturday, June 14, 2025
10:00am
Ticketed Event | Hilton SLC Center
Join us for a celebration of the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization’s 99-year history. Paris Matthews will give her fnal address as Miss Utah, various awards will be presented, and state and local volunteers will be recognized for their years of service milestones.
Brunch tickets can be purchased at www.missutah.org (while supplies last).
Local Volunteer Q&A With the State Judging Panel
Saturday, June 14, 2025
12:00pm
Ticketed Event | Hilton SLC Center
Immediately following the Hive of Honor Awards Brunch, local directors and judges chairs are invited to this panel discussion to gather feedback and insights directly from the state judging panel.
Final Competition
Saturday, June 14, 2025
7:00pm
Ticketed Event | Capitol Theatre
Photo by Chad Braithwaite (@chadbfacesphoto)
PRELIMINARY PROGRAMS
National Anthem
Thursday Evening: Jodi Nicholes
Friday Matinee: Lucy Llewellyn
Friday Evening: Heather Jackman
Opening Number 2025 Contestants
Introduction of Miss Utah and Emcee
Introduction of Judges and Auditors
Onstage Conversation Competition
Thursday Evening: Bryce Group
Friday Matinee: Canyonlands Group
Friday Evening: Arches Group
Special Performance
Miss Utah’s Honeybees
Health & Fitness Competition
Thursday Evening: Canyonlands Group
Friday Matinee: Arches Group
Friday Evening: Bryce Group
Recognition of Sponsors
Talent Competition
Thursday Evening: Arches Group
Friday Matinee: Bryce Group
Friday Evening: Canyonlands Group
Special Performance
Thursday Evening: Brynn Lindley, Miss Utah’s Teen
Friday Evening: Paris Matthews, Miss Utah
Honeybee Promenade
See Evening Gown Groups Below
Evening Gown Competition
Thursday Evening: Bryce Group
Friday Matinee: Canyonlands Group
Friday Evening: Arches Group
Contestant Parade
Awards Announcement
Preliminary and Rookie Awards will be presented to each group in Talent and Evening Gown.
FINAL NIGHT PROGRAM
National Anthem
Kimberly Jaramillo
Opening Number 2025 Contestants
Introduction of Miss Utah and Emcee
Announcement of Top 15 Semi-Finalists
Introduction of Judges and Auditors
Onstage Conversation Competition
Top 15 Semi-fnalists
Special Performance
Miss Utah’s Honeybees
Health & Fitness Competition
Top 15 Semi-fnalists
Recognition of Sponsors
Talent Competition
Sponsored by Faces Photography
Top 15 Semi-fnalists
Special Performance
Paris Matthews, Miss Utah 2024
Honeybee Promenade
Evening Gown Competition
Sponsored by Ypsilon Dresses
Top 15 Semi-fnalists
Special Performance
Brynn Lindley, Miss Utah’s Teen
Recognition of Forever Miss Utahs
Announcement of Top Five Finalists & Final Five Conversation
Final Walk
Paris Matthews, Miss Utah 2024
Contestant Parade
Awards Announcement
Crowning of Miss Utah 2025
COMPETITION HOSTS
All
Competitions
Paris Matthews
Miss Utah 2024
Paris Matthews is from Cottonwood Heights and graduated Magna cum laude from the University of Utah with a B.S. in Human Development Family Studies with a Child Life emphasis. She works in the emergency room at Primary Children’s Medical Center as a Certifed Child Life Specialist, where she creates positive and healthy experiences for children through play while they are hospitalized. Paris is also pursuing a Master’s of Healthcare Administration at Colorado Technical University, where she is a 4.0 student on the Dean’s List.
Paris was crowned Miss Utah on June 15, 2024 in Salt Lake City and represented Utah at the Miss America Competition in January. She has earned over $17,000 in scholarship assistance through her participation in the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization. Paris has spent her year as Miss Utah promoting her community service initiative, “The Power of Play,” where she advocated for hospitalized children by collecting over 8,000 play items for patients at Primary Children’s Hospital and traveled to Washington, D.C. to
lobby for two bills supporting families of childhood cancer patients. Paris is also a published author of a children’s book titled, Mabel’s Hospital Adventure, to help children cope with hospitalization experiences.
Thursday Evening
Stacy Johnson Bills
Miss Utah 2003
Stacy Bills, originally from Orem, Utah, received her dance training at Center Stage Performing Arts in ballet, jazz, hiphop, tap, and ballroom. In high school, she won the junior and senior national solo championship in Orlando, Florida and went on to become Miss Dance/Drill Utah 2000 and 1st runner up at the Miss Dance/Drill USA competition. Stacy was awarded the “Dance Talent Scholarship” at Brigham Young University, danced with the seven-time National Champion Cougarettes for three years, and was dance captain for two years. Later, Stacy represented her city as Miss Provo and went on to win the title of Miss Utah 2003. She was awarded a Non-fnalist Talent Award at Miss America.
Stacy danced professionally with Odyssey Dance Theatre and Evolutions Company. She made it all the way to the fnals of the nationally televised show, “Star Search,” and was honored to make the Top 20 girls
on FOX’s hit series, “So You Think You Can Dance,” in 2008. She loved her time in Dallas where she taught and directed at the 2014 National Studio Of The Year, Prodigy Dance And Performing Arts Centre. She has choreographed all over the country and has won many national titles with her choreography, including “Critic’s Choice” awards at New York City Dance Alliance and a nomination for “Best Choreographer” at The Dance Awards. Her companies and dancers have been featured on the “Dancing with the Stars” show and tour, “Donny and Marie Show,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” “Glee,” and more.
Stacy recently moved back to Utah and directs the touring companies at Center Stage Performing Arts Studio, where she was thrilled to win “Studio of the Year” again with them in 2019. She also is the head co-coach of the 26x National winning, BYU Cougarettes. Her greatest joys are her wonderful husband and fve awesome kids.
Friday Matinee
Jennifer Ward Oldroyd
Miss Utah 1992
Jennifer Ward Oldroyd was selected
Miss Utah 1992 from a feld of 65 contestants after winning all four preliminary competitions at the Miss Utah
Pageant. At the Miss America 1993 Pageant, she was named a non-fnalist talent winner for her classical violin performance of “Scherzo Tarantella” by Wieniawski and a fnalist for the Quality of Life award for her community service work in the classical music feld.
A concert violinist, Jennifer won her frst state-wide violin competition at age 10 and went on to win numerous violin competitions in Utah and throughout the intermountain west. She has soloed with several symphonies and orchestras, including the Utah Symphony.
After graduating with a degree in journalism and political science from the University of Utah, Jennifer married Matt Oldroyd and worked as a press aide to the governor of Utah. Jennifer and Matt have four children, a daughter-in-law, and are looking forward to becoming grandparents this fall. They enjoy spending time with family, traveling, and dividing their time between Texas and Utah.
Friday Evening
Jesse Craig Bailey
Miss Utah 2018
With her mom, Elizabeth Johnson
Craig, being Miss Utah 1991, Jesse couldn’t help but fall in love with the Miss Utah Organization at a young age. She grew up watching so many women she admired prepare to compete for Miss Utah, and at age 19, she switched from observer to participant. Jesse loved serving as Miss Orem 2015, Miss Greater Salt Lake 2017, and Miss Timpanogos 2018 before ultimately being crowned Miss Utah in June 2018. She went on to compete at the Miss America 2019 Competition in Atlantic City, New Jersey, where she was honored to receive a Non-Finalist Talent Award for her performance of her original violin piece, “Misirlou and the Bee.”
As Miss Utah, Jesse wholeheartedly loved promoting and engaging in community service throughout the state. Some of her favorite community service initiatives included monthly service projects with local titleholders and weekly visits to Primary Children’s Hospital to play “Name That Tune” with the kids there.
Jesse went on to attend BYU Law School, and she graduated with her J.D. in April 2024. She now works full time as an associate attorney at Ray Quinney & Nebeker in Salt Lake City, where she practices family and employment law.
In her spare time, Jesse volunteers with the Miss Orem and Miss Greater Salt Lake organizations. She also loves to write short stories, sing, play her violin, visit Utah’s famous soda shops, hike in the mountains, and spend time with her husband, Tyson.
Saturday Evening Ashlee Stratton
Ashlee Stratton is an award-winning, certifed professional speaker with a passion for empowering individuals to break through fear and achieve their “next-level” goals. Growing up as a competitive dancer, musician, and piano studio owner, Ashlee understands the dedication and discipline required to excel in performance-based felds. Her journey into public speaking began in 2008 when she was crowned Miss Spanish Fork, a pivotal moment that sparked her career as a motivational speaker. Since then, she has shared stages with some of the world’s top speakers and inspired diverse audiences across the accounting, health, medical, business, and government sectors.
A two-time top 10 fnalist in the National Speakers Association Storytelling Competition, Ashlee has a proven ability to craft a compelling message. Beyond speaking, she is a dedicated wife and mother of four. Ashlee is honored to help introduce the next Miss Utah, a role she knows frsthand can be a life-changing opportunity to grow, inspire, and lead with confdence.
MEET THE JUDGES
Marianne Bales Thompson
Marianne Thompson has vast experience in the performing arts -- from music, voice, and dance, to fashion and pageantry. She has an extensive background in drama and acting, having performed numerous times with the Pioneer Theater Company, and many recognize her for her starring role as Pam in the beloved flm classic, “Saturday’s Warrior.” Marianne has also participated in numerous modeling and fashion shows and she was a featured member of Deseret Dance Theater, where she showcased her versatility and range in all aspects of the arts.
After competing at Miss America and completing her year as Miss Utah 1987, she received her education in Fashion Merchandising at Utah Valley University then studied dance at BYU, blending her passion for movement and artistic design. Her career in costume design has been equally notable, serving for 11 years as Costume Director for Utah Metropolitan Ballet and currently as the Costume Director for BYU’s Ballet Department. Marianne is deeply devoted to her family, and considers them her greatest reward. She and her husband, Joseph, have raised fve daughters, cherish their seven grandchildren, and happily reside in Provo, Utah.
tor of Development for the University of California San Francisco Foundation. He holds a B.A. in Communication Arts and Broadcasting from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. While in college, Markham traveled throughout the country as a major part of the award winning UAB Speech and Debate Team. He studied acting at the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco and has performed in numerous regional theatre productions. Markham is an avid runner and has completed 35 marathons. In April he completed his 7th Boston Marathon, and he is a member of the USA Track and Field Pacifc Association. In 2015, Markham was ranked Top 3 of his age group in Long Distance Running.
Markham has been a volunteer with the Miss America Organization for 38 years and has judged state competitions in 17 states. He is the former Board President and former State Judges Chair of the Miss Nevada Organization. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Bear Valley Music Festival, Co-President of the Black-Tie Club of San Francisco, and is the former Board President of the Playwrights Foundation. For the past 29 years Markham has called the San Francisco Bay Area his home.
While living in New York City, Kara was a runway and print model for many top agencies, spent several years performing as a Radio City Rockette, and was a member of the original Broadway cast of Disney’s “Tarzan.” She played Potiphar’s wife in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at Tuacahn, where she was also a featured silk aerialist. Kara’s television credits include “The Today Show,” “Good Morning America,” “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” “The View,”
and the “MTV-Video Music Awards.”
Kara has collaborated with numerous Tony, Emmy, and Grammy Award winning directors, choreographers, and music artists, and has choreographed commercials and live industrial shows both nationally and internationally. She received her principal training at the Pacifc Northwest Ballet School and was a student at the U.S. Olympic Training Center after receiving First Place All-Around Honors in Rhythmic Gymnastics at the Junior Olympics.
Currently, Kara is a tap instructor at Utah Tech University, an instructor for the Rockette Experience, a coach for the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and a choreographer for Brigham Young University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the BYU Marriott School of Management, and she expresses deep appreciation and love to her supportive husband, Josh, and their wonderful children who keep her on her toes –even though she hung up her pointe shoes years ago.
Sara Jones
Sara Jones is the CEO of InclusionPro and has over 25 years of executive and leadership experience. She is a highly sought-after speaker, known for her keynotes on high-performing teams, the art of leadership, and how inclusion drives innovation. Her personal TED Talk has had over 2 million views, and she serves as a speaker coach for TEDxSaltLakeCity. Before founding InclusionPro, Sara was the CEO of ApplicantPro, and she also served as VP of Strategic Development at Patent Law Works, an IP frm in Silicon Valley.
Sara began her career as a patent attorney, and then as a partner at Workman
Markham Miller
Markham Miller serves as Senior Direc-
Kara Sandberg
Nydegger. She serves on the Utah Workforce Development Board (appointed by the Utah governor) and on the National Association of Corporate Directors Utah Chapter Board. In 2007, she co-founded Women Tech Council (WTC), a national organization focused on women’s economic impact in the technology sector, and she is also a volunteer advocate for the passage of the Adoptee Citizenship Act.
Sara’s notable recognitions include the 2025 Women’s Leadership Award from the Sundance Institute and Zions Bank, Utah Valley University’s 2024 Business Ethics Award, the University of Utah’s 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award, and Utah Business Magazine’s 2019 CEO of the Year. She holds a Juris Doctorate from Brigham Young University and a Bachelor’s of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Utah.
Mario Good
Michael Mario Good is a native of Columbia, South Carolina who now resides in Van Buren, Michigan. He received his B.A. in Theater from South Carolina State University, and he is an innovative leader in both actor training and academics. Mario is an international consultant, speaker, and instructor alongside industry professionals who are scouting and developing talent. As an actor, his career encompasses over 25 years of work on stage, screen, and television. As an educator, Mario was a high school drama teacher, a middle school teacher with Metro Atlanta Schools, and a high school Magnet Arts Director.
Mario created a free acting program for senior citizens at Southwest Arts Center in South Fulton, Georgia, and he is nationally recognized for his original and innovative work addressing social issues. In 2011, he opened GOOD Acting Studio in Marietta, GA to embrace beginner, intermediate, and professional actors in a
way that stimulates imagination and creativity found beneath the soul. His studio has helped many actors secure roles in flm and television.
In 2015, Mario was commissioned by the Prime Minister of Bermuda to write and direct the critically acclaimed play, “Hamilton RISE,” celebrating the 200th anniversary of Hamilton as the Capital of Bermuda. In 2017, he founded GOOD for the Arts (GFA), a registered 501(c)3 non-proft organization that ignites creativity in youth through performing arts and charitable work. Mario enjoys giving back through mentoring, and he is a proud member of SAG-AFTRA and Actors’ Equity Associations - EMC
Alana Burns
Alana Lee Burns is a licensed Real Estate Agent and Broker of Guardian Realty in Southeast, ID. The past nine years of rural small-town life in the Gem State are a stark contrast to her upbringing in Las Vegas, Nevada -- but she couldn’t be happier! Alana proudly competed in the Miss Utah Pageant when she was Miss Dixie State University in 2009, and she fell in love with the mission of the Miss America Organization. She went on to be named Miss Las Vegas 2010, and then selected as Miss Nevada 2011. This not only provided her the chance to make lifelong friends as she competed for Miss America, but also service opportunities and speaking engagements where she could promote the United States armed forces, encourage political involvement, encourage patriotism, and work to increase voter registration. As the daughter of a politician, she has always been a political junkie who loves studying world events, watching the news, and listening to political podcasts.
Alana has lived in Ireland, Monaco, and China, and she has a great love for travel and respect for the American dream. She has worked as a reporter, a TV news
anchor, and a production coordinator of Wayne Newton’s ofcial documentary. She and her handsome husband, along with their three beautiful children, fip homes together and enjoy experiencing life hand-in-hand. She is an experienced vocalist and loves running, mentoring, road biking, and starting new businesses.
Michael Golden
Mike Golden has been a volunteer with the Miss America Organization for over 35 years - serving in several key leadership roles at both the local and state levels. He has judged 20 Miss America state competitions across the country, and was the head judge of the panel that selected Nia Franklin as Miss New York prior to her being crowned Miss America 2019. Mike currently serves as Vice Chairman and State Judges Chair for the Miss North Carolina Organization, where he previously spent 10 years as a Field Director. In addition to his Miss America volunteerism, Mike has been civically active in many other organizations. He has held leadership roles on boards of the National Symphony Orchestra - a division of the Kennedy Center, the North Carolina Symphony, DC Central Kitchen, Interfaith Food Shuttle, Northern Virginia Technology Council, the Madison Council for the U.S. Library of Congress, and the Greater Washington DC Urban League Gala.
Mike recently retired after a 40-year career with Wells Fargo that spanned the East Coast. During that time, he served as Executive Vice President and Regional President for the Capital Region in Washington DC, the Greater Georgia Region in Atlanta Georgia, and the North Carolina Region in Raleigh. Mike and his lovely wife, Deborah, divide their time between Winston Salem, North Carolina, and Pawleys Island, South Carolina.
MISS UTAH 2025 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
Miss Utah 2025
$15,000 Scholarship
1st Runner-Up
$4,000 Scholarship
2nd Runner-Up
$3,000 Scholarship
3rd Runner-Up
$2,000 Scholarship
4th Runner-Up
$1,000 Scholarship
Semi-Finalists (10)
$500 Scholarship
Overall Interview
$250 Scholarship
Overall Vocalist
$250 Scholarship
Overall Dancer
Donated by Dexonna Talbot Bagley, Miss Utah 2019
$250 Scholarship
Overall Instrumentalist
Donated by Jennifer Ward Oldroyd, Miss Utah 1992
$1,000 Scholarship
Preliminary Talent (3)
$350 Scholarship
Rookie Talent (3)
$250 Scholarship
Preliminary Evening Gown (3)
$350 Scholarship
Rookie Evening Gown (3)
$250 Scholarship
Non-Finalist Interview
$250 Scholarship
Non-Finalist Talent
$250 Scholarship
Non-Finalist Health & Fitness
$250 Scholarship
Non-Finalist Evening Gown
$250 Scholarship
Lady in Red Fundraising Award
$500 Scholarship
Quality of Life
Donated by Renita Revill in memory of Melissa Gray
$1,000 Scholarship
Weber State University In-Kind Scholarships
$3,500 Tuition Waiver
Awarded to Miss Utah 2025*
$2,000 Tuition Waiver
Awarded to the 1st and 2nd Runners-Up*
Utah Tech University In-Kind Scholarships
$10,000 Tuition Waiver
Awarded to Miss Utah 2025*
$5,000 Tuition Waiver Awarded to the Runners-Up*
$500 Tuition Waiver Awarded to the Top 15 Semi-Finalists*
*Must meet admission and application requirements
Additional Awards
Top Ad Page Sales
People’s Choice
Miss Congeniality
Gold Heart Heroes
Silver Heart Heroes
Bronze Heart Heroes
Photo by Chad Braithwaite (@chadbfacesphoto)
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FOREVER MISS UTAHS
FOREVER MISS UTAHS
FOREVER MISS UTAHS
dance and talent photography proud to support Miss Utah since 2019
Pictured: Arach J Okullu
MISS UTAH’S TEEN
S
ince its inception in 2005, the Miss Utah’s Teen program has provided transformative experiences for hundreds of young women around the state, equipping them with tools to grow personally and professionally. Contestants are given opportunities to perform their talents, develop and practice interview skills, and engage in their communities in meaningful ways. Miss Utah’s Teen helps teenage girls step outside of their comfort zones to develop a greater sense of confdence, present themselves with poise, and articulate their thoughts efectively in any setting.
As the sister program to Miss Utah, Miss Utah’s Teen shares Miss America’s core values of style, scholarship, success, service, and sisterhood. The network created through this program extends far beyond competition weekend, ofering lasting friendships and connections that support these young women throughout their lives. Additionally, Miss Utah’s Teen promotes a spirit of service, encouraging young women to engage in volunteer work and advocacy eforts that leave a last impact on their communities. Whether through fundraising, public awareness
campaigns, or hands-on service projects, participants develop a lifelong commitment to giving back.
The Miss Utah’s Teen program is committed to Miss America’s mission of empowering women to lead by encour-
leaders who will make a diference in their community and beyond.
Get Involved
Applications are now open for Miss Utah’s Teen 2026! Join us as we crown our 20th titleholder. The competition will be held May 28-30, 2026 at the Covey Center for the Arts in Provo. Areas of competition include:
aging young women to embrace their strengths, serve their communities, and strive for excellence in all aspects of life. By providing scholarships, professional development opportunities, and a platform for young women to share their passions, the Miss Utah’s Teen program continues to shape future
• Private Interview (30%)
• Talent (20%)
• Health and Fitness (20%)
• Evening Gown (20%)
• Onstage Conversation (10%)
Visit www.muoteen.com to learn more about the Miss Utah’s Teen program, eligibility criteria, how to become a contestant, and how to fnd a local competition. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to gain confdence, earn scholarships, serve your community, and make lifelong friendships.
Stay connected and follow Miss Utah’s Teen on Facebook and Instagram (@missamericasteenut). We can’t wait to see you on the Miss Utah’s Teen stage!
Photos by Chad Braithwaite (@chadbfacesphoto)
From left to right: Desiree McKinnon, 3rd Runner-Up; Brenna Torres, 1st Runner-Up; Brynn Lindley, Miss Utah’s Teen; Alexa Back, 4th Runner-Up; Kaylynn Trinnaman, 2nd Runner-Up.
WOMEN
CPR, too!
But women receive bystander CPR in public settings less often than men do.
HERE’S
Why:
Even in training environments, some people are less likely to use CPR or an AED on female avatars.
Fears: Many are afraid of being accused of inappropriate touching or causing physical injury.
Myths: Many believe that women are less likely to have heart problems.
Here’s what the American Heart Association is doing:
RAISING AWARENESS about cardiac arrest in women.
Here’s what you can do:
IMPROVING TRAINING to address gender-related barriers to increase bystander CPR rates for women. This includes representation of women in our training materials and informational videos.
ADVOCATING to improve the response to cardiac arrest for everyone. (All states have Good Samaritan laws that protect anyone who gives first aid and CPR. Check the laws in your area.)
✔ Overcome fear — it may help you save a life.
✔ Scan the QR Code to watch a video on how to perform Hands-Only CPR.
✔ Learn more at goredforwomen.org/WomenandCPR
MEET BRYNN LINDLEY, MISS UTAH’S TEEN
Brynn Lindley was crowned Miss Utah’s Teen on February 15, 2025. Hailing from Salem, the 16 year old is entering her senior year at Salem Hills High School. Along with a $5,000 scholarship, Brynn also received the Overall Health & Fitness Award, Rookie Health & Fitness Award, Rookie Talent Award, the Teens in Action Award, and was a Di amond Sash Award recipient. She will represent Utah at the Miss America’s Teen Competition in September and spend her titleholder term furthering her community service initiative, “Serve it Up: Small Acts, Big Impact.”
What Inspired Your Goal of Becoming Miss Utah’s Teen?
My family instilled in me a deep-rooted desire to serve others. Watching my older sister, Jaylynn, serve as Miss Utah’s Teen 2023 with dedication and sacrifce also profound ly impacted me. It ignited my desire to engage in something meaningful through the Miss America Opportunity, where service is central. I am passionate about serving those around me because I believe it is the greatest act of love and acceptance. Additionally, I aim to be a role model for young people in my community and demonstrate the importance of dedication, community service, and personal growth.
Describe Yourself in Three Words.
acts build a stronger, more connected society. As Miss Utah’s Teen, I am committed to expanding my platform statewide by establishing an Impact Crew in all Utah high schools. I am passionate about inspiring teens to participate in service, as I firmly believe that giving
‘Fit in Fifty’ challenge that focuses on both physical and mental well-being. But let’s be real, balance is super important, and I absolutely love treating myself to my favorite McDonald’s order. Who doesn’t enjoy a little McD’s every now and then, right?
What Are You Most Excited For at Miss America’s Teen?
I’m thrilled about the opportunity to dance on a national stage! As a cheerleader for the past three years, I haven’t had the chance to showcase my dance skills on stage, so this feels like a dream come true. I’ve grown up watching Miss America, and the thought of stepping onto that stage myself is surreal. I’m sure I’ll be nervous, but I know it’s going to be an absolutely unforgettable experience!
What Other Extracurricular Activities Are You Involved in?
Driven, compassionate, and resilient.
What is Your Service Initiative?
My community service initiative, “Serve it Up: Small Acts, Big Impact,” is centered on the belief that small, everyday actions can profoundly influence and enhance our communities. Whether it’s lending a hand to a neighbor or volunteering at local events, I believe these
back creates a ripple effect of positive change. One of my most cherished projects is the cheer and dance class I initiated at a Title I school. Additionally, I enjoy collaborating with organizations like Kids Who Count and the Utah Food Bank, and I regularly use JustServe.org to find daily service opportunities. There’s so much to be done, and I encourage everyone to start with small actions, as they will inevitably lead to significant impact.
What is Your Favorite Area of Competition?
Fitness, because it shows the discipline and perseverance I’ve built through years of cheerleading and dance. It’s not just about being strong physically but also having mental resilience. To prep for Miss Utah’s Teen, I started a
I’m a two-time state champion cheerleader and Game Day Captain, and I absolutely love being a flyer on my cheer team. I’ve also been a competitive dancer for 10 years, which has taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and creativity. Academically, I work hard to maintain my 4.0 GPA, and I cherish spending time with my friends and family. I’m a girl who’s always on the go and loves being surrounded by people—it’s my happy place!
What Advice do You Have for Others Aspiring to be Miss Utah’s Teen?
Focus on the journey rather than just the crown. Develop skills, build lasting friendships, and engage deeply with your community. It’s about personal growth and the impact you can make.
Photo by Chad Braithwaite (@chadbfacesphoto)
MISS UTAH’S HONEYBEES
The Miss Utah’s Honeybees (formerly called “Little Miss”) program is the ofcial Utah state chapter of the Miss America’s Little Sisters. This non-competitive program allows girls ages 6-12 to make new friends, build confdence, and gain mentors. Honeybees get a behind-the-scenes look at the Miss Utah production, the chance to perform and promenade onstage, and one-on-one time with their Miss Utah “big sisters.” Through this experience, they learn the values of leadership, service, and sisterhood in a fun and empowering environment.
The Miss Utah’s Honeybee program inspires girls around the state to get involved in their communities, be a friend to others, and develop their talents. It’s more than just a moment on stage; it’s an opportunity to grow, dream big, and see frsthand the impact of strong, accomplished women. We hope they return to the Miss Utah stage in the future as contestants and, one day, perhaps even be crowned Miss Utah!
Samantha Thomas Avery Whiting
Taylee Brower
Paisley Jenkins Addalynn Jones Kennedy Dean
Reese Whiting Gabriella Bingham
Indie Bodily
Ellie Worle Quincy Pulham Adelaide Tebbs
Brianna Cooper Evelyn Edwards Ellery Meagher Rowan Bundy Magnolia Miller Josephine Hodges
Adalynn Towner Brielle Towner
Lynlee Goble Harper Liddle Scarlett Pieroni Sophie Blackner
McKai Giles Paige Severinsen
Adley John Perri Mitchell
Riley Bronson Ali Dunn
MISS UTAH’S HONEYBEES
Beverly Sorenson Everleigh Bown
Marleigh Stilp Macie Stevens Wellee Williams Charlotte Wiberg
Alice Earl Piney Shepherd
Ellie Hoffmeyer
Simone Drury
Natalia Hendricks Hallie Purcell
Mercedes McKinnon
Navy Jenson
Emma Leifson Sadie Hallett
Zanna Mills
Livy Kelson Zoie Wright
London Brown Novalee Rasmussen
Olivia Osguthorpe Jaquelle Jones
Kaizley Oakes
Amelia Farnsworth Sophia Henry
Elloise Bowers Lexi Mathewson
Khloe Swenson Allie Carnell
LOCAL VOLUNTEERS
The Miss Utah Scholarship Organization is comprised of a strong network of local volunteers who collectively donate thousands of hours to their local programs each year. Because of their tireless hard work and dedication, hundreds of young women around the state are given a platform to serve their communities, strengthen their interview skills, earn scholarship assistance, and participate in the Miss Utah Opportunity. Thank you, local volunteers, for the time, energy, and resources you devote to your competitions, contestants, and communities!
Miss American Fork
Dorinda Ledkins
Miss Beaver County
Miss Beaver County’s Teen
Kjirsta Yardley
Pazley James
Miss Cache Valley
Wendy Sanders
Miss Duchesne County
Miss Duchesne County’s Teen
Chealsi Thacker
McKenzie Ivie
Miss Eagle Mountain
Miss Eagle Mountain’s Teen
Jessica Bodily
Melissa Smith
Miss Garfield County
Miss Garfield County’s Teen
Karma Albrecht
Miss Greater Salt Lake
Miss Timpanogos
Miss Deseret
Miss Aspen Hills
Jessica Adams
Miss Greater Salt Lake’s Teen
Miss Timpanogos’ Teen
Miss Deseret’s Teen
Miss Aspen Hills’ Teen
JennyLynn Meek
Miss Herriman
Miss Salt Lake County
Miss Oquirrh Mountain’s Teen
Laura Twitchell
McKenzie Jewkes
Miss Iron County
Miss Iron County’s Teen
Karen Ence
Miss Legacy
Miss Pioneer Valley
Miss Rocky Mountain
Miss Zion
Jessica Whalen
Miss Lehi
Kate Daly
Miss Lehi’s Teen
Jennifer Thomas
Miss Murray
Lindsey Smith
Miss Nebo
Miss Panoramaland
Miss Salt Creek
Jalena Warner
Miss Northern Utah
Melissa Payne
Miss Northern Utah’s Teen
Eliza Turney
Miss Orem
Donna Millard
Miss Orem’s Teen
Danielle Meeves
Cortlyn Tanner
Miss Payson
Chelise Walker
Amber Woodland
Miss Pleasant Grove
Kym Wilson
Miss Provo
Miss Freedom Festival
Robyn Pulham
Susan Bramble
Tricia Funes
Miss Riverton
Sheril Garn
Miss Roy
Alix Harvey
Harmony Simnett
Miss Salem
Miss Salem’s Teen
Bayley Deason
Sherry Berrett
Miss Sanpete County
Miss Sanpete County’s Teen
Sharee Gelof
Miss Southern Utah
Miss Southern Utah’s Teen
Maddie Brostrom
Miss Spanish Fork
Jennifer Olson
Raychellene Talbot
Miss Springville/Mapleton
Jana Davis
Bethany Marker
Courtney Schultz
Miss Utah County
Cheri Erekson
Jill Larsen
Miss Utah Tech University
Morgan Olson
Sydney Imlay
Miss Wasatch County
Miss Heber Valley
Miss Wasatch County’s Teen
Miss Heber Valley’s Teen
Aja Phillips
Giuliana Willis
Miss Washington County
Miss Greater Zion
Miss Red Mountain
Allison Anderson
Alivia Foster
Are you interested in empowering women to lead, refining your leadership skills, and making a difference in your community?
Email info@missutah.org to learn more about starting a local competition.
STATE VOLUNTEERS
State Executive Director
Madison Wilson
Co-Executive Director
Whitney Thomas
Secretary/Treasurer
Tawnya Monson
Judges Chair
Del Beatty
Assistant Judges Chair
Denice Kitchen
State Field Director
Lea Ann Southwick
Field Directors
Charlotte Graham
Erika Horne
Shala Hunsaker
Alisha Lee
Celeste Lojik
Keri Meservey
Laurie Pitchforth
State Auditors
Bruce & Laura Everingham
Business Manager
Jake Galovich
Traveling Companions
Dawn Meeves
Julie Edwards
Sponsor Relations
Jessica Orvin
Producer
Ari Hansen
Assistant Producers
Brittney Itri
Bini Brockbank
Honeybee Directors
Sydnee Alger
Malena Case
Social Media Coordinator
Kelsey Jenson
State Volunteers
Jackie Bohls
Brittany Lyons
Heather Jackman
Webmaster
Sam Thomas Hostess Chair
Camille Cottle
Miss Utah 2025 Hostesses
Ashley Bolt
Carrie Davis
Jonique Dyer
Brandi Harris
Amber Hudson
Dana Hufey
Dawn Meeves
Heather Randall
Jennifer Reeves
Sheri Savage
Tifany Terry
Miss Utah’s Teen Director
Amy Rasmussen
Miss Utah’s Teen Volunteers
Austri Biddinger
Kate Daly
Jake Galovich
Savvy Jardine
Makenzie Memmott
Terri Watkins
LOCAL VOLUNTEER AWARD
RAYCHELLENE TALBOT
Raychellene Talbot has been an active and passionate volunteer in the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization for over 30 years. Her journey in the program began when she was crowned Miss UVSC (now Utah Valley University), and she has since dedicated her time to mentoring and preparing numerous young wom en around the state for local, state, and national competitions in the Miss America Opportunity.
Raychellene’s creative tal ents have played a signifcant role in Utah’s pageant community. She outftted Miss Utah contestants for the state pageant’s opening number for multiple years, designed and created numerous competition wardrobe pieces for titleholders to wear on the Miss Utah and Miss America stages, and has donated alteration services to Miss Utahs for their Miss America wardrobe for decades.
Raychellene’s commitment to Miss America’s mission of empowering women to lead has positively infuenced countless young women across the state. One former titleholder describes her as, “A real life Fairy Godmother with a talent for seeing and bringing out the good in everyone she comes in contact with. Raych knows
how to serve, style, and lift you up when you need it.”
Pageantry has become a family tradition in the Talbot household. Raychellene and her husband, Vernon,
na held the title of Miss Utah 2019 and 2020, and Tayxa placed 1st Runner-Up to Miss Utah’s Outstanding Teen in 2022.
Outside of pageants and supporting her daughters in their dance endeavors, one of Raychellene’s favorite activities is traveling on international humanitarian trips with her family. She currently serves as the co-director for Miss Spanish Fork and leads Spanish Fork City’s “Little Miss Spanish Fork” mentorship program, where her community-mindedness helps countless young women fnd meaningful opportunities to develop self confdence, leadership skills, and a love for service.
are proud parents to three daughters and have supported each of them through multiple journeys to the Miss Utah and Miss Utah’s Teen stages. Axuray was crowned Miss Utah’s Outstanding Teen in 2018, Dexon-
The Miss Utah Scholarship Organization is delighted to celebrate the light and sparkle that Raychellene brings to our community through her heartfelt service. Her unwavering dedication, willingness to step in whenever needed for whatever needed, and genuine support of both our program and our titleholders have left a lasting impact that extends far beyond the borders of our state organization. It is with sincere gratitude and admiration that we honor her with our 2025 Local Volunteer Award.
LEGACY AWARD
RENITA REVILL
Renita frst joined the Miss Lehi committee in 1975 (50 years ago!) and has stayed involved with the Miss America Opportunity ever since. She volunteered with the Miss Lehi program for over 30 years and served as the Miss Lehi director from 1991 to 1996. Perhaps her success in helping and preparing so many hopeful pageant winners came from her own experience as a young woman herself. Re nita was crowned Uintah’s Miss Cowbell in 1966.
Renita began volunteering at the state level when she joined the Miss Utah Board in 2003. She served as the State Hostess Chair from 2003-2005 and State Executive Secretary from 2005-2007. In 2008, Renita assumed the role of State Executive Director of the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization, which she held through 2013. For those fve years, Renita over saw the logistics of the annual Miss Utah Pageant and helped her title holders prepare for Miss America.
ship that lasted beyond their years of service.
Renita has led and mentored hundreds of young women through the Miss Utah program, including her
ipation in the Miss Utah and Miss Utah’s Teen programs.
Renita has fve children, 21 grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren with her late husband, Chuck Revill, who was the greatest supporter of her involvement in the Miss America Organization. She resides in Lehi and enjoys attending all of the plays, games, performances, and pageants that her posterity participate in. Renita continues to support the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization as a seasoned local judge and donor of the Miss Utah “Quality of Life” scholarship awarded to a contestant who has excelled in her community service initiative eforts.
Renita attended the Miss America Pageant for many years and strongly supported and cheered for her Miss Utahs. Her titleholders adored her and valued her guidance and friend-
her four daughters as they each held local titles and competed on the Miss Utah stage. Her infuence has now spanned to the next generation, as she has also supported multiple granddaughters in their partic-
Renita’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of this organization, having guided generations of young women with wisdom, grace, and unwavering commitment. For fve remarkable decades, she has given of her time, her talents, and her heart to shape the future of the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization in immeasurable ways. It is with profound respect and heartfelt gratitude that we recognize and celebrate her extraordinary service with our 2025 Legacy Award.
2024 RESULTS IN REVIEW
Miss Utah 2024
Awarded a $15,000 scholarship
Paris Matthews, Miss Panoramaland
1st Runner-Up
Awarded a $4,000 scholarship
Jordyn Bristol, Miss Greater Salt Lake
2nd Runner-Up
Awarded a $3,000 scholarship
Erika Dalton, Miss Pioneer Valley
3rd Runner-Up
Awarded a $2,000 scholarship
Ryleigh Paulin, Miss Utah County
4th Runner-Up
Awarded a $1,000 scholarship
Tayler Newman, Miss Wasatch County
Semi-Finalists
Each awarded a $500 scholarship
Alexsys Campbell, Miss Jordanelle
Axuray Talbot, Miss Red Rocks
Marisa Weiker, Miss White Pine
Marianne Barrus, Miss Heber Valley
Aurelia Olson, Miss Springville/Mapleton
Glory Thomas, Miss Nebo
Zoe Sewell, Miss Southern Utah
Whitney Gillman, Miss Davis County
Gracie Kay Nichols, Miss Weber County
Maddalena Willis, Miss Legacy
Preliminary Talent Awards
Each awarded a $350 scholarship
Maddalena Willis, Miss Legacy
Marianne Barrus, Miss Heber Valley
Tayler Newman, Miss Wasatch County
Preliminary Evening Gown Awards
Each awarded a $350 scholarship
Paris Matthews, Miss Panoramaland
Jordyn Bristol, Miss Greater Salt Lake
Ryleigh Paulin, Miss Utah County
Rookie Talent Awards
Each awarded a $250 scholarship
Loryn Merrill, Miss Roy
Erika Dalton, Miss Pioneer Valley
Alexis Hill, Miss Spanish Fork
Rookie Evening Gown Awards
Each awarded a $250 scholarship
Erika Dalton, Miss Pioneer Valley
Tayler Newman, Miss Wasatch County
Aurelia Olson, Miss Springville/Mapleton
Overall Interview Award
Awarded a $250 scholarship donated by Rachael Scott
Paris Matthews, Miss Panoramaland
Overall Dancer Award
Awarded a $250 scholarship donated by Dexonna Talbot Bagley, Miss Utah 2019
Maddalena Willis, Miss Legacy
Overall Instrumentalist Award
Awarded a $1,000 scholarship donated by Jennifer Ward Oldroyd, Miss Utah 1992
Marianne Barrus, Miss Heber Valley
Non-Finalist Interview Award
Awarded a $250 scholarship
Natalie Edwards, Miss Timpanogos
Non-Finalist Health & Fitness Award
Awarded a $250 scholarship
Alyssia Johnston, Miss Greater Zion
Non-Finalist Talent Award
Awarded a $250 scholarship
Alyssia Johnston, Miss Greater Zion
Non-Finalist Evening Gown Award
Awarded a $200 scholarship
Marie Sewell, Miss Utah Tech University
Quality of Life Award
Awarded a $1,000 scholarship donated by Anonymous in memory of Melissa Gray
Morgan Workman, Miss Rocky Mountain
People’s Choice
Marisa Weiker, Miss White Pine
Miss Congeniality
Marisa Weiker, Miss White Pine
GRFW x MASF Fundraising Awards
Tayler Newman, Miss Wasatch County
Natalie Green, Miss Orem
Grace Ehinger, Miss Freedom Festival
Loryn Merrill, Miss Roy
Jordyn Bristol, Miss Greater Salt Lake
Natalie Edwards, Miss Timpanogos
Glory Thomas, Miss Nebo
Adeline Hansen, Miss Payson
Aurelia Olson, Miss Springville/Mapleton
Hailey Johnson, Miss Lakeview
Helene Lam, Miss Bonneville
Kennadie Austin, Miss Pleasant Grove
Brooke Hendrickson, Miss Sego Lily
Shaye Johnson, Miss American Fork
Paris Matthews, Miss Panoramaland
Axuray Talbot, Miss Red Rocks
Erika Dalton, Miss Pioneer Valley
Morgan Workman, Miss Rocky Mountain
GRFW x MASF Top Fundraiser
Aubree Hughes, Miss Garfeld County
HundredX Top Fundraiser
Kennadie Austin, Miss Pleasant Grove
Top Ad Sales
Jacelynn Rose, Miss Golden Spike
From left to right: Ryleigh Paulin, 3rd Runner-Up; Jordyn Bristol, 1st Runner-Up; Paris Matthews, Miss Utah 2024; Erika Dalton, 2nd Runner-Up; Tayler Newman, 4th Runner-Up
Photo by Chad Braithwaite (@chadbfacesphoto)
Miss Utah 2024 PARIS MATTHEWS
Photo by Chad Braithwaite (@chadbfacesphoto)
POWER OF PLAY
I don’t think I would be a child life specialist today without the growth that I have experienced in the Miss America program.
Ibegan this journey as a 19-yearold with little speaking skills but a strong drive, determination, and passion to chase my dreams. I was never afraid to use my voice in smaller settings, but the idea of speaking in front of crowds or interviewing professionally would make me physically shake. Throughout my near decade of pageant experience, I learned how to tie in my leadership skills with my speaking skills. My interview took a complete 180, and I now feel confdent in speaking powerfully in front of any audience.
Because of the competitive nature of the child life career feld, I had to go through several interview rounds to secure practicums in Sweden and Primary Children’s Hospital, an internship at Golisano Children’s Hospital in New York, and eventually land my position that I’ve had for the past four years as a child life specialist in the emergency department and rapid treatment unit at Primary Children’s Hospital. These interviews would not have been successful without the skills I developed from Miss America.
Miss America motivated me to push myself out of my comfort zone while serving my community. I have achieved things I never thought could be accomplished, like publishing my Children’s Book, Mabel’s Hospital Adventure. As Miss Utah, I have been able to read my book in classrooms all over the state, host assemblies for students of all ages, and share how play is a powerful healing tool. I founded my licensed charity of three years, the “Power of Play,” that provides play items to hospitalized children. Through its impact, I have been able to collect and donate over 8,000 play items to Primary Children’s Hospital, while involving people in the commu-
nity to participate in hands on service opportunities like tying blankets, creating craft kits, and hosting toy drives.
As Miss Utah, I have brought awareness to my career as a child life specialist and also advocated for hospitalized children on the national level. I had the opportunity to lobby for childhood cancer in Washington, D.C. I met with senators and representatives on two acts, that got passed to provide further support for families of childhood cancer patients. I was able to spend time at Primary Children’s Hospital’s Seacrest Studios and connect with the patients I serve in a diferent way as Miss Utah. I also volunteered at the Festival of Trees to support the community efort to raise over three million dollars for Primary Children’s Hospital.
One of the most powerful things we can do for kids who experience hospitalization is to elevate their voices. Throughout my year, I interviewed several girls with chronic illnesses who shared how play has positively changed the trajectory of their hospital experiences. My Power of Play Super Kid Ambassadors Taylyn, Kendalynn, and Sophia have made my year so special. More than anything the Miss Utah opportunity has allowed me to fnd a fuller and deeper purpose, passion, and impact for hospitalized children.
Competing at Miss America was beyond my wildest dreams and expectation. There is an old home video of me at four years old, staring up starry eyed at the TV screen flled with women competing for the title of Miss America 2002, and practicing my evening gown walk while watching the girls. I didn’t know it then, but that placed a dream in my heart, and I would have never guessed it would come into fruition.
Competing in January in Orlando was truly one of the best moments of my life. From the friendships built with women from all over the nation, to the opportunity to talk about the Power of Play for hospitalized children on the national level, there was never a dull moment. Representing the state of Utah was so special, and getting to do it alongside my teen, Kira, made it even more sweet. I had friends and family travel across the country to support me, and I have never felt more loved. The biggest takeaway from my experience was that another woman’s success never will take away from my own. It is easy to feel overwhelmed and to compare my story or strengths to another, but cheering on those around you will always make the experience even more beautiful.
FROM PARIS, WITH LOVE
The worst part of winning the title of Miss Utah is that it doesn’t last forever. When I started competing eight years ago, I never thought that I would be the girl to become Miss Utah. My frst mistake was not believing in myself. I hope my story has inspired another girl that she can do it too, - no matter how many times she doesn’t hear her name called at the end of a competition. I didn’t win a local title until my 13th competition, and Miss America was my 17th competition. Perseverance was essential, but most importantly, it was my “why.”
My priorities in competing have always been to become the best version of myself and to make a diference through service. No matter how many times I was told no, or did not win, I kept moving forward. I had already won through the experiences I gained from competing and serving.
A couple of pages will never encompass all that I have experienced, and what my year as Miss Utah has meant to me. Each day I had the opportunity to wake up as Miss Utah has not been taken for granted. From the special moments of a child exclaiming, “Miss Utah is at my school! I need her
autograph!” as if I were a celebrity, to the soft and slow moments of being a shoulder to cry on with soft whispers of, “thank you,” at cancer remembrance walks, each day brought such deep fulfllment and purpose to my life.
It has been a whirlwind of a year attending nearly 200 events, traveling to fve diferent states, maintaining a 4.0 GPA in my master’s program, working at Primary Children’s as a child life specialist, running my charity, and aiming to make an impact as Miss Utah every single day.
This year has been beyond my wildest dreams, but I wouldn’t have been able to have such a successful year as Miss Utah without my people that have made it possible for me. Not a day went by that I didn’t feel fully loved and supported from everyone in my corner.
To my Executive Director, Madison: Thank you for being my biggest cheerleader this year! You’ve made my year beyond perfect.
To the Miss Utah Board: Whitney, Jake, Del, Jess, Ari, Tawnya, Sarah, Amy, and everyone else - I couldn’t
have survived this year without you! To Dawn and Julie, my traveling companions: Thank you for spending hundreds of hours and miles with me, learning how to use a digital camera, and making every event so fun!
To the 2024 Judging Panel: DaNae, Joel, Fernanda, Joe, Mary, Derek, and Ginger - Thank you for trusting me with this role and making my dreams come true. I hope I’ve made you proud!
To My Pageant Family: Austri, Hillary, Natalie, Jalena, and LindaThank you for cheering me on every step of the way, and for believing in me all along.
To Everyone Who Helped Me Feel Ready for Miss America: Tewa Wride, Carly Condie, Chelsea Divine, Raychellene Talbot, Juven Nava, Annika Wooton, Carry O’Neal, David Lang, David Weincek, and all of my Miss Utah formers - your time you dedicated to me was beyond appreciated.
To My Miss America Sisters: Ali, Meara, Jordan - this wild ride wouldn’t have been the same without you! I am eternally grateful Miss
America brought us together.
To the Miss Utah Sponsors: helped me feel prepared, beautiful, and ready to take on the world with your support. Thank you for believ ing in this program’s mission and for your generosity.
To my teens, Kira and Brynn: Thank you for inspiring me to do better. You both have already made such a huge impact on the world and it is an honor to be your big sis. Thank you Helen and Jessica for raising amazing daughters that I am so grateful to call my friends.
To the Barons: Thank you for supporting me this year, taking me in as one of your own, and jumping right into the pageant world!
To Spencer: Thank you for being the best Mr. Utah there ever was.
Most importantly, To My Family: Thank you for cheering me on and believing in me. Since I was a 19-yearold girl who couldn’t complete a full sentence onstage, you always knew that I could become Miss Utah and
cheered me on through every loss and win. Mom, thank you for being my momager, personal photographer, and chaufDad, thank you for being my personal barista and coming to events with me. Ava, thank you for letting me steal the spotlight from you for a year.
To the girls competing this week, I hope that you walk away, no matter the outcome, knowing the huge waves you’ve made in your community. Allow this week to change your life, and step into your power. Take advantage of being surrounded by such world-changing women! I look up to each of you and can’t wait to see where the next Miss Utah takes her year. Know I’ll always be in the rear view cheering her on. Miss Utah is someone who empowers, uplifts, and advocates, and I know she will do just that.
This year has been pure magic. I don’t want to say goodbye, but I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Signing of for the last time, I’m Paris Matthews, Miss Utah 2024
Photo by Chad Braithwaite (@chadbfacesphoto)
THE MISS UTAH OPPORTUNITY
Miss Utah is the most visible representative of the Miss Utah Scholarship Organization (MUSO). She is a motivational speaker and performer for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. She is a local celebrity and understands the role she plays in society, as well as the responsibilities that accompany this position of statewide infuence. When someone interacts with Miss Utah, she must generate a positive reaction towards the MUSO. She represents the best of contemporary women between the ages of 18-28 in her styling, mannerisms, conversation, and demeanor. She possesses the unmistakable “it factor” that is easily recognizable but hard to defne.
Miss Utah has a clearly defned personal brand and ability to embody both the MUSO and Miss America brands in her interpersonal, written, verbal, and digital communication. She has the humility to promote causes greater than herself and the ability to connect with a variety of audiences in formal and informal settings. Miss Utah’s communication skills should be refned, strong, well-rounded, intelligent, and routinely used.
The Miss Utah opportunity is intended to be a launching pad for the titleholder’s greater long-term success. MUSO leadership strives for Miss Utah to succeed both as a titleholder and in her other pursuits. She is expected to successfully manage a balanced schedule and give the appropriate amount of focus and commitment to the various responsibilities of the titleholder role.
Miss Utah Will:
• Serve as the state spokesperson for the MUSO and articulate its mission and vision to attract like-minded contestants, volunteers, donors, and supporters;
• Represent the MUSO at the Miss America Competition;
• Attend events, appearances, public speaking engagements, and service projects under the direction of the MUSO business manager;
• Perform her talent as requested at appearances;
• Strategize and execute a goal-driven campaign to advance her personal community service initiative across the state;
• Research, prepare, and deliver public appearance presentations, performances, and speeches to audiences of all ages and backgrounds;
• Serve as a brand ambassador for the MUSO’s state partners and Miss America’s national partners;
• Create content for media and social/digital outlets that promote her personal brand, community service initiative, MUSO brand, and state partners;
• Support MUSO’s local organizations through recruitment, mentoring contestants at workshops, and emceeing local competitions;
• Act as a positive role model for young women across the state of Utah.
Desired Qualities and Attributes:
• Is intelligent, talented, approachable, charismatic, grateful, and well-rounded;
• Conducts herself in a way that exemplifes integrity, virtue, and a sense of service;
• Exhibits a sense of positivity, humility, and humor;
• Ability to take direction from the MUSO leadership;
• “Can do” team player attitude;
• Ability to problem solve and adapt to uncertain situations;
• Is punctual (i.e., early) and capable of meeting deadlines;
• Ability to set service initiative goal metrics and establish a plan to efectively enact social change;
• Outstanding interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills;
• Understanding of social media and the ability to use it strategically and tactfully;
• Broad understanding of the MUSO program and an ability to efectively articulate the titleholder role;
• Strong networking skills and an ability to attract, build, and maintain partnerships;
• A strong sense of self with confdence in who she is now and striving to become.
Miss American Fork BRYNN CARNESECCA
Envelopes of Hope: Providing Light and Community for Incarcerated Individuals
We are all worth so much more than the worst mistake we have made. I have spent the last year working within Utah’s justice system to bring light and love to incarcerated individuals throughout the state. Through my pen pal program, we have involved over 300 volunteers and inmates. As an advocate for prisoners throughout Utah, I have spent time speaking at the prisons, managing thousands of letters, advertising the program and advocating for inmate rights. Hearing the stories of the incarcerated throughout Utah has been the privilege of a lifetime.
Miss Aspen Hills GRACE EHINGER
Invest in Health with Cancer Screenings
Because my mom’s stage 3 cancer was misdiagnosed and she never received proper screenings, I watched her fght through grueling rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. This experience instilled my passion for people to prioritize their health through screening. Partnering with the Spanish Fork Intermountain Hospital and businesses in Utah, I created a “Girls Night Out” event aimed at advocating for women’s screenings. Now, as a statewide Intermountain Health event, I’m working with other hospitals to start their own night. Additionally, I travel Utah encouraging businesses to participate in the Screening Time Of Campaign and the Working With Cancer Pledge.
Miss Beaver County ALYSSA DERBIDGE
Sense of Self: Supporting Foster Kids and the System
I provide care packages to children in the foster care system and work closely with local organizations to support events that raise awareness about the challenges these children face. Unfortunately, foster care is often stigmatized, and my mission is to change that. Having personally experienced the system, I understand how difcult it can be for both children and parents. Through my care packages, I aim to ofer support to kids. Additionally, I actively engage with local organizations by attending meetings and organizing events to educate others. Supporting the foster care system is the core focus of my community service initiative.
EMMY SLICHTA
Miss Blu#dale
Educate to Empower: Raising Awareness for Mental Health
I was able to go to schools, church youth groups, participate with wellness farms along with other wellness companies to teach youth how to help themselves. I have been able to be trained to be QPR certifed, along with working with diferent mental health professionals to give proper information to youth and parents about mental health. I planned many events myself or collaborated with mental health professionals in my community to reach a wider audience. We have a Health Coalition in Blufdale with a emphasis on mental health so I was able to work with them to do many events.
Miss Bonneville SAVANNA SPENCER
Happy Teeth
Oral care and hygiene are essential to our health, however many people do not understand the importance of oral health. I have been able to education countless individuals of the importance or oral hygiene by working as a dental assistant and through out my involvement with school clubs. I helped organize and run a dental drive that provided oral hygiene products to a local women’s shelter and students at the University of Utah. My goal is for everyone to understand the importance or oral health and the direct links it has to the health of our bodies.
Miss Carbon County SHALYCE RAUHALA
Caring About Health is Loving Yourself!
My involvement in my service initiative is deeply important to me. Having personally experienced mental health issues and knowing others who have as well, I understand how widespread this challenge is. My initiative focuses on the importance of mental health and emphasizes self love and self care. These subjects are a vital necessity that everybody needs to be able to truly strive through life. My plan is to break the stigma, remind others that it is okay to not be okay, and what steps to take to begin learning how to care for your mental health and learning self love.
Miss Davis County HAYLEE LAMB
The Gift You Are: Promoting Disability Education and Inclusion
My goal is to promote inclusion of the special needs community throughout our state. Growing up, I have been surrounded by many people with diferent disabilities, and can see the need to become unifed and utilize all abilities. Through hours of service, I have been able to raise hundreds of dollars for special education programs around the state and have been dedicated to working with these individuals in a multitude of settings. My main goal for my initiative is to teach society about diferent disabilities so that the disabled community is more understood and included in everyday life.
Miss Deer Creek MARISA WEIKER
Anything is Possible
My initiative focuses on raising awareness and providing resources to special education classrooms and advocating for individuals with special needs. I’ve seen the resilience of my students and the challenges educators face with limited resources. To address this, I raised $2,000 for Ogden School District classrooms to provide essential tools and technologies. I also partnered with organizations like Miss Amazing Pageant and Best Buddies to create more inclusive spaces and promote social integration. Through social media advocacy, local fundraising, and community partnerships, my initiative aims to ensure that individuals with special needs have access to the opportunities they deserve.
Miss Deseret NOELLE CONDIE
This Mind of Mine: Mental Health Awareness and Resource Education
After experiencing the weight of depression frsthand, I made it my mission to ensure others never feel alone in their pain. I became QPR-certifed, shared mental health strategies in schools and dance studios across Utah, and now travel as a Hope Hero Ambassador, helping kids become the hero of their own story. I’ve opened up on KMTI Radio, ABC4’s “Good Things Utah,” and through my “Mindful Monday” campaign, creating a space of comfort and connection online. As Miss Utah, I’ll expand this work—amplifying awareness, education, and hope. Because every life matters, and every story deserves to be heard.
Miss Eagle Mountain TAYLEE HUNTER
Abilities Beyond Disabilities: Giving Everyone a Chance in the Spotlight
My service initiative is dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities through dance, athletics, and pageantry. I have coached for the Special Olympics, volunteered at track and basketball events, and taught dance and gymnastics to individuals with special needs. Partnering with organizations like Darby’s Dancers and the Special Beauty Pageant, I have worked to expand awareness and accessibility. Through school visits and workshops, I strive to shift perceptions and highlight the limitless potential of individuals with disabilities. My goal is to foster confdence, break down barriers, and ensure that everyone has the chance to pursue their passions.
Miss Freedom Festival LILIA TAVARES
CPR U Ready? A Life-saving Initiative
When I became CPR certifed for the frst time at 16, it ignited a passion to share the importance of being prepared for the ones you love. Since becoming a certifed instructor, I’ve taught this life-saving skill to over 2,000 people of all ages in my community. My goal is to make CPR education accessible, easy, and engaging so everyone feels confdent in an emergency. I raise awareness through my website and social media, and I’m proudly partnered with the Provo Fire Department to expand AED access and empower more people with life-saving knowledge, because CPR saves lives. Are you ready?
Miss Garfield County ZOEY FAWSON
Empowering Children Through Quilting: A Path to Creativity and Confidence
During my year of service, I played a key role in raising funds for children’s scholarships to attend a sewing camp. This included creating and selling a cookbook, which successfully raised enough funds for 18 students to participate. To further promote the scholarship, I visited classrooms to share my personal experience at the Quilt Walk Kids Camp. As a result of these eforts, scholarship applications increased by 50% compared to previous years. Sewing has always been a signifcant part of my life, and I am grateful to provide this opportunity to those in need.
Miss Greater Salt Lake NATALIE EDWARDS
Money Talks: Empowering Teens Through Financial Literacy
Teens deserve to feel confdent in their fnancial futures. My initiative simplifes concepts like budgeting, saving, and credit into practical tools that build long-term fnancial independence. In collaboration with educators, fnancial professionals, and nationally recognized organizations like Junior Achievement, it reaches youth across diverse communities. The mission is rooted in the belief that fnancial literacy is a right, not a privilege. Through storytelling, real-life examples, and interactive activities, teens are empowered to make informed decisions and take control of their futures. Money becomes a tool, not a barrier, to achieving goals and living independently. It’s fnancial education with heart and purpose.
Miss Greater Zion KAILI RUTH
Dare2Speak: Speaking Up About Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Education
I work on raising awareness about child sexual abuse prevention, focusing on online grooming and promoting the idea of “safe adults” over “stranger danger.” I’ve created educational resources, including a children’s activity book, to help teach safety tools in a fun and engaging way. I also advocate for harsher punishments for those involved in the possession of harmful material, pushing for stronger laws in Utah. Additionally, I organize events, collaborate with local organizations, and aim to expand these eforts beyond my community to reach the entire state, educating parents, children, and professionals about safety.
ELLE MILLER
Miss Heber Valley
Prioritizing Access to Women’s Healthcare
To promote my initiative, I have volunteered at a local women’s clinic as a CNA and taught high school girls about hormone health, nutrition, exercise and self care. I also emceed and volunteered at IHC’s Ladies Night Out, focusing on cardiac and breast health and participated in Heber Valley’s Issue conference highlighting mental health. I organized and distributed information about free health screenings and education classes and used social media to disseminate important health information and increase awareness for my initiative.
Miss Herriman RIAN HASLAM
Think Pink: Support, Educate, Advocate
As Miss Herriman, I’ve collaborated with incredible businesses and organizations to make a lasting impact. The Boob Bus, a mobile mammography unit, joined Herriman City’s health fair and Towne Days, promoting breast cancer awareness. Beadology partnered with me to host bracelet-making workshops, donating over 350 pink bracelets to three local cancer centers. Volunteering with the Image Reborn Foundation, I’ve supported breast cancer survivors at renewal retreats. Through social media, I educate the community on breast cancer awareness, detection and prevention. Passionate as both Miss Herriman and a radiation therapist, I’m excited for new opportunities as I continue to spread awareness!
Miss Iron County ASHTYN GILES
Happy Hearts
Over the past fve years, I’ve immersed myself in service through the Miss America Organization and as a missionary in New Zealand for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I’ve partnered with local organizations to support my community and help others experience the fulfllment that comes through giving. My newest project is a donation closet for high school students in need of clothing and hygiene items, inviting the community to give back through ongoing drives. These experiences have shown me that when we come together, small acts of service can lead to a lasting impact.
Miss Jordanelle DREW RUSSELL
Adaptive Resources: Empowering Youth with Special Needs Through Dance
For the past six years, I have held an assisting role with an inclusive dance program that allows children with unique needs to experience the joy of movement in a supportive environment. Through creative expression and adapted choreography, the program celebrates each dancer’s abilities, promoting inclusivity and empowerment. With a recently developed curriculum, I know that so many children throughout the state of Utah could beneft from this program. Watching these dancers light up as they participate has reinforced my belief in the power of dance to inspire and create lasting positive change.
Miss Juab County EMILY HARRIS
The Buddy Project: One Friend Can Change Your Whole World
Seeing the efects of bullying frst hand inspired me to take action in promoting inclusion. In 2017, I introduced designated benches in local elementary schools to help students create friendships. After meeting with administrators and organizing assemblies, I made a video to educate students, ensuring long-term awareness. My project has reached multiple districts, with media helping to spread the message. Through coloring and essay contests, along with student stories, I’ve witnessed friendships form and a ripple efect of kindness emerge. This experience has deepened my belief in the power of kindness.
Miss Legacy SKYLYNN BASSO
Safe Steps Safe K.I.D.S.: Emergency Preparedness for Children
I have witnessed how crucial it is to be prepared for emergencies. I founded an educational program with four steps to utilize in an emergency: Know the Problem, Initiate Help, Don’t Rush, Start Care. Partnering with First Responders and EMS, I empower children with the knowledge to act confdently in an emergency. As a nationally certifed EMT, I have seen how these skills can be life-saving. Every child should have the knowledge and tools to take care of themselves and others in unexpected situations, fostering a community ready to respond in times of need.
ANALEIGHA MEEK
Miss Lehi
Healthy Habits, Healthy Hearts: Promoting Wellness Through Mindful Movement
My initiative encourages individuals to prioritize their physical and emotional well-being through intentional, joyful movement. By promoting accessible and mindful activities, it empowers people of all ages and abilities to discover the benefts of staying active in ways that nourish both the body and the heart. Whether it’s a walk with a friend, a dance session in the living room, or practicing breathing exercises, the goal is to inspire a balanced lifestyle rooted in self-care. Through workshops, community events, and educational resources, this initiative fosters a culture of wellness, encouraging consistent habits that lead to healthier, happier lives.
Miss Murray ALLYSA SULLIVAN
Let’s Talk Suicide
I wouldn’t be here today if my friend hadn’t talked with me about suicide. Now, I encourage and prepare others to have this same life-saving conversation. Since then, I’ve become a state-certifed crisis counselor and volunteer for the Crisis Text Line, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and National Alliance for Mental Health. I share my story of hope to destigmatize mental health and share the empowerment that comes from learning suicide prevention skills. My goal is to equip people with the confdence and tools to speak up and save lives like my friend did for me.
MARIANNE BARRUS
Miss Nebo
We Empower: Educating Utah’s Youth on Emotional Resilience
Over the past fve years, I have worked directly with teens to promote emotional resilience through leadership, service, and skill-building. As Miss Utah, I will present in classrooms across the state to teach coping skills, self-efcacy, and connection, while also engaging parents and community leaders on how to best support the rising generation. My work includes creating safe spaces for open dialogue and using social media to expand access to resources. By combining personal experience, academic knowledge, and community partnerships, I’m committed to helping Utah’s youth feel seen, supported, and empowered to turn adversity into strength.
Miss Northern Utah ANNA JOHNSON
Inspiring Patriotism: Past, Present, and Future
I am creating unity in our country by establishing common ground among Americans. As we come to appreciate the sacrifces made for us by our veterans, we gain a greater desire to vote and preserve the freedoms they fought for, as well as to prepare the next generation to lead with compassion and patriotism. As I lead our state to adopt these ideals, patriotism becomes common ground as citizens understand that patriotism is not agreeing on the course of action, but an appreciation for the sacrifces made and the desire for a better future for those who live in America.
Miss Orem CHLOE HENRY
Confidence in Me
Confdence is something that most people struggle with. In fact, over 85% of the population is battling anxiety and/or depression. I have discovered through years of research and the development of my initiative, that confdence is a skill, and there are tools that can help you to develop it! By recognizing what you’re good at, building healthy relationships, positive self-talk, and more, you can build your confdence and take control of your mental health.
Miss Panoramaland TAYLER NEWMAN
Inspiring Youth to Discover Their “Natural High”
My passion for dance has led me to connect with students across Utah, where I share my story and provide resources that encourage healthy, drug-free lifestyles and stronger family relationships. I’ve seen frsthand how staying connected to a passion can ofer direction, resilience, and purpose. Through school visits, I aim to uplift youth, inspire them to develop their unique talents, and ofer tools that support both personal growth and healthy home environments. My mission is to guide others toward connection and confdence, helping them build a future rooted in strength, support, and hope—for themselves, their families, and those around them.
JAKENZIE JONES
Miss Payson
Unleash Your Inner Spark
Throughout the year, I’ve had the opportunity to help others fnd and strengthen their inner spark by sharing messages of confdence, self-worth, and individuality. I’ve led workshops, spoken at community events, and mentored young girls—encouraging them to embrace what makes them unique, discover their passions, and explore what truly makes them tick. One of my favorite moments was hosting a local youth pageant, where I helped each participant recognize their own strengths and shine. Through social media, school visits, and personal connections, I’ve worked to uplift and empower others. This mission is deeply personal, and I’m excited to continue it.
Miss Pioneer Valley ZOE SEWELL
Healthy Habits: 1% Better Every Day
Creating habits is more than a choice; rather, it’s a commitment to prioritizing your self-worth and potential for success. To be efective, I utilize my three principles: strong, steady, and satisfed. This guarantees your habits will directly infuence your physical health, mental well-being, and overall empowerment. The partnerships I’ve established with the Girls on the Run nonproft organization, Utah Tech University Board of Trustees Chair, Tifany Wilson, the Washington County School District, and the Student Tuition Fund Nonproft Organization have aided me in implementing my initiative in the community.
Miss Pleasant Grove MARISSA BROWN
ACT: Teaching Awareness, Connection, and Technology Habits
I am passionate about encouraging meaningful human interaction over digital distractions. I have shared this message with audiences ranging from young children to parents, helping them build stronger relationships through connection. Using the acronym ACT— Awareness, Connection, and Technology Habits—I share practical strategies for balancing technology use while prioritizing personal relationships. Through presentations, community events, and hands-on activities, I inspire people to be mindful of their screen time and focus on real-life connections. By fostering awareness and promoting healthy habits, I empower others to create deeper, more fulflling relationships in an increasingly digital world.
CHARLEE SORENSEN
Miss Provo
Mentors Matter: Empowering Dreams, Shaping Realities
Empowered by women who shaped my path, I’ve become a champion for mentorship and its life-changing impact. Recognizing the gap in mentorship opportunities, I joined Women Who Succeed, leading goal-setting sessions and coaching emerging leaders. As Miss Provo, I expanded Big Brothers Big Sisters into Utah County, while mentoring youth at Slate Canyon Correctional Facility—an experience that deepened my empathy and resolve. Now, as an advocate of Keys to Success, I’m creating workshops, expanding digital outreach, and connecting mentors to mentees statewide. My mission is bold: to ignite leadership, bridge opportunity gaps, and build a future where mentorship transforms lives.
BROOKLYN LEIFSON
Miss Red
Rocks
Go the Extra Mile for a Healthy Lifestyle
Building healthy habits is the foundation of a strong, balanced lifestyle. I’m passionate about helping children learn how to develop and maintain a strong wellbeing. Through my curriculum, children learn how to prioritize heart, body and mind in fun and engaging ways. I’ve organized multiple children’s marathons, where students completed 25 “honorary miles” by practicing healthy habits, then came together for a fnal 1.2-mile fun run. Watching kids fnd creative ways to make healthy living exciting is incredibly rewarding, and I love inspiring them to build habits that will beneft them for life.
Miss Riverton KYLIE HALLETT
More Than Your Dress Size: Inspiring Inclusion Through Body Positivity
By hosting and speaking at events centered around self-love, I’ve sparked an environment of inclusivity within the city of Riverton. I’ve started a weekly gym club for anyone who isn’t confdent working out alone, organized a size-inclusive clothing swap, and held a “Princess Story Time” at the local library. These events, among many others, are how I’m working to expand the idea of what a “princess” can look like. I have been so privileged to be able to help others on the journey toward unconditional self-love.
Miss Rocky Mountain MADDALENA WILLIS
Artistry in Action: Art for All Abilities!
I am passionately dedicated to empowering individuals with special needs through art, dance, and community engagement. My journey began at age 14 through the adaptive dance program at Wasatch Dance Center. Since then, I’ve volunteered with PEAK and TURN Community Services to teach art classes, choreograph inclusive performances, create promotional videos, and celebrate milestones. My involvement also includes organizing events, sharing uplifting stories, and advocating for greater awareness and support for disability services. My mission is to help build a world where every individual is seen, valued, and celebrated for their unique gifts where creativity becomes a bridge for deeper connection.
HELENE LAM
Miss
Roy
Pages to Progress: Empowering Young Minds One Book at a Time
My mission is to improve the reading and literacy skills of K-6 students by helping them develop independent reading habits and a love for books. I’ve partnered with “Road to Success,” a free reading program that incentivizes students to read, leading to over 1.5 million minutes read, 94% participation, thousands of prizes redeemed, and four bikes won across the four schools where I’ve launched the program. I’ve also organized book drives, tutored students through “America Reads,” hosted community reading events, and donated Little Free Libraries to expand access to books, because every page counts on the path to progress.
Miss Salem SAMANTHA WEBER
Lifting Lives with Literacy
Learning how to read at a young age sets a child up for a continuous and joyful academic journey. Early literacy skills become tools for children as they turn their dreams into realities. I work to mentor today’s readers as they become tomorrow’s leaders through the three keys of literacy: Learn – building a strong literacy foundation at an early age; Connect – using literacy to connect, think, and explore new ideas; and Lead – applying literacy skills to achieve goals, unlock future dreams, and help others along the way.
Miss Salt Creek GLORY THOMAS
Be the ONE to Make the Di#erence: GLO With Kindness
I am the founder and executive director of a non-proft organization that focuses on kindness as actionable empathy. For 10 years, this organization has planned and successfully executed 300+ events, providing education to schools and communities, opportunities to practice kindness, and a space to create actionable empathy. We do this by implementing Kindness Clubs, Kindness Weeks, and Kindness Committees. We have impacted over 50 community organizations by raising $15,500 in scholarship money, collecting 78,000 donated items, and speaking to 130+ organizations about Glo With Kindness. This movement inspires thousands of people to put empathy into action.
Miss Salt Lake County ALEXSYS CAMPBELL
Cool to Care: Increasing Passion and Compassion
Not being able to choose just one passion to invest my years of service, I have let myself be involved in any and every opportunity of service that presents itself. In doing so and meeting all walks of life, I hope to share my core intentions of caring about yourself, caring about others, and caring about the world around you. My hope is to inspire the state of Utah to care a little more and do a little more to make the world a better place for the individual as well as the collective.
Miss Sanpete County LAKELY BROTHERSON
Give to Live: Organ and Tissue Donation Advocacy
I advocate for organ and tissue donation by sharing the impactful story of my uncle, whose decision to become a donor saved and improved multiple lives following his unexpected passing. In partnership with DonorConnect, I share the incredible impacts of organ and tissue donations through presenting in schools and community settings. My job as an advocate is to dispel myths and emphasize the signifcance of giving life to others. My goal is to increase registration and create a culture of informed donors. Through education, advocacy, and sharing my uncle’s story, I empower individuals to make educated life-saving choices.
Miss Snow Canyon BROOKLYN KRANENDONK
Know or It’s “No”
By sharing my story as a survivor, I initiate the conversation and bring awareness into every room I enter. I have awarded scholarships to survivors and advocates. I collaborated with the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault to lead the Southern Utah extension of their Denim Drive in April. I hold workshops to educate individuals on safe dating practices, what consent is, and how we can create a safer environment for all. I volunteered at the Dove Center auction, where we raised $567,000. We can embrace a prevention life, not just a prevention month, by starting the conversation and keeping it going.
Miss Southern Utah SHAYE JOHNSON
The Red Heart Project: Being CPR Prepared and Saving Lives
Watching my father save my cousin’s life ignited my passion for lifesaving education. As a certifed CPR instructor, American Heart Association (AHA) volunteer, and cardiovascular registered nurse, I work to increase sudden cardiac arrest survival rates. Recently, I helped to pass the HEARTS Act, a nationwide bill that provides the funding for life-saving education and training. Now, I am working to implement the HEARTS Act statewide with Utah’s AHA Advocacy Committee. Together, we’re developing legislation to implement cardiac emergency response plans, expand automated external defbrillator access, and require CPR training in schools statewide.
Miss Spanish Fork HOPE KING
What We Do Matters
As a shy child, I discovered confdence through sharing my talents to serve others. Over time, I realized that our unique skills—no matter how big or small—can create powerful connections and inspire change. I’ve taught English in the Dominican Republic and brought joy to children with disabilities in Romania through dance and movement. I also organized a fundraiser to help low-income youth access extracurricular activities. My mission is to help others recognize their worth, nurture their gifts, and use them to uplift their communities. By doing so, we build a more compassionate, empowered, and inclusive world.
REBEKAH WALL
Miss Springville/Mapleton
The Strength of a Powerful Mind: Embracing Possibilities Over Limitations
I have volunteered 250+ hours at numerous community events, residential treatment centers, schools, libraries, and nursing homes, helping individuals of all ages build mental resilience and emotional strength. I’ve partnered with mental health professionals to support teens afected by trauma, hosting workshops on resilience, self-respect, and healthy relationships. Some of my most memorable moments include choreographing a Christmas ballet for seniors, hosting a week long dance camp, and organizing a positivity-focused tea party. I believe that our trials do not defy us - a strong mind comes from embracing challenges with perseverance and a growth mindset, not from avoiding them.
Miss Timpanogos JORDYN BRISTOL
Food Insecurity: Outnumber Hunger
Many wonder why I fght to feed Utah’s children despite never facing food insecurity. My late father taught me that one person can change lives, shaping my advocacy and pushing me to act. Because, if not me, then who?
One in six Utah children faces meal uncertainty. I collaborate with The Policy Project, Utahns Against Hunger, and the American Heart Association, lobbying for policies like HB100 to remove school meal stigma. Through partnerships and legislative advocacy, I drive systemic change. Miss Utah deserves a seat at the table, and I am ready to ensure she takes it.
Miss Utah County ERIKA DALTON
Street Smarts: Sexual Assault Prevention
Sexual violence afects every community and can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or socioeconomic status. I am committed to making a diference by working as a sexual assault crisis advocate, organizing personal safety workshops, fundraising for survivors, and advocating for prevention with the National Center on Sexual Exploitation and Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault. It’s my mission to turn pain into purpose and inspire a movement where survivors are empowered and celebrated for their strength. I believe that through education, compassion, and courage, we can create a safer Utah.
Miss Utah Tech University ALYSSIA JOHNSTON
The Monthly Move Project: Changing Poverty One “STEP” at a Time
What started as a local youth program has grown into a national initiative through Circles USA, reaching children across the country. By combining movement with mentorship, we help kids build confdence, make connections, and grow. My goal is to inspire the next generation to see ftness as a way to build resilience and believe in themselves. Through many hours working with these children, I’ve seen how service can truly make a diference. Their growth reminds me that when we give our time and heart to others, we can create real, lasting change.
Miss Wasatch County MADELINE DAHL
Safety in Sports: Athletic Abuse Prevention
What is something most kids have in common from elementary school through high school? SPORTS. Over 60 million children and teens participate in organized sports, and studies indicate that 40-50% of them have experienced anything from mild harassment to severe abuse. Yet, many of us don’t do anything to reduce this statistic and “just deal with it.” The proper training for coaches is the bare minimum in my journey to preventing athletic abuse. SafeSport, an organization I work closely with, provides the resources and training I argue should be required to supervise athletes. Let’s create a safe sporting community together.
Miss Zion RYLEE RAMSEY
The Survivor’s Mindset Initiative: From Victim to Survivor to Fighter
I work to help victims of sexual and violent crimes know that they are seen, that they are believed, and that they can heal. My work on social media and with city police departments provides victims with education and resources to become survivors and fghters. Sharing my story and my vision enables me to be a role model of strength and resilience, empowering our communities to identify, support, and heal victims of violent crimes. The trauma that a survivor has endured is not the end. There is hope, healing, and a new beginning on the horizon.
Visit www.missutah.org to find a local competition and begin your journey to Miss Utah!
The Miss Utah Opportunity is one of the most rewarding, life-changing experiences available to Utah’s young women, even if they don’t win a title.
Kristin Chenoweth, Vanessa Williams, Sarah Palin, Carrie Underwood, and other infuential women in our sicety participated in Miss America’s local competitions. The skills and talents they developed in the program prepared them for the successful careers they lead now.
You could be next!
Why participate? Do it for the:
Community Engagement: Enact efective, positive change in your community.
Professional Development: Improve your interview, public speaking, digital, and interpersonal communication skills.
Glamour: Red carpet moments await.
Crowns & Awards: Earn scholarships to further your education.
Personal Growth: Foster a positive mindset to achieve your goals.
Sisterhood: Make lifelong friendships with other like-minded, motivated women.
The State of Women’s Heart Health
A 2022 Presidential Advisory, Call to Action for Cardiovascular Disease in Women: Epidemiology, Awareness, Access and Delivery of Equitable Health Care, speaks to the staggering needs that still exist when it comes to the care, treatment and prevention of heart disease in women.
Women’s Health: The Reality
Over 44% of women ages 20+ are living with some form of cardiovascular disease which remains the leading cause of death in women.
Only 44% of women are aware that cardiovascular disease is their leading cause of death.
Comparing health data from women to data from men may lead to conclusions that men’s health is the ”gold standard“ and women’s health is “atypical.” This overlooks the unique biology and life stages of women that impact their health.
Women experience unique life stages, such as pregnancy and menopause, that can put them at increased risk for CVD – yet continue to be underrepresented in cardiovascular research.
Less than half of women entering pregnancy in the US have optimal cardiovascular health.
Nearly 70% of postgraduate medical trainees report minimal to no training regarding genderbased medical concepts and only 42% of cardiologists report feeling prepared to adequately assess cardiovascular disease s ecific to o en.
Achieving Health Equity for All Women: Solutions
Reducing sex-based disparities is an integral part of the American Heart Association’s commitment to advancing cardiovascular health for all by 2024. Understanding the genetic, cellular and physiologic factors affecting women’s heart health, as well as addressing the gaps in knowledge and care, are both fundamental in achieving health equity for women. Proposed solutions include:
Strengthening relationships between cardiologists and other healthcare specialists to optimize care
Increasing the number of research studies focused on women
Implementing culturally sensitive heart-health awareness campaigns emphasizing prevention and education
Engaging communities in heart health programs You Can Make an
Encouraging advocacy for public policy and legislative interventions that address social determinants of health
Surveying and monitoring disease and risk factor data to better capture information used to achieve better health outcomes
Impact Today
• Raise your voice by joining You’re the Cure and helping us advocate for public health policies for women’s cardiovascular health, including improved access to care: www.yourethecure.org
• Accelerate scientifc discovery with us by closing the participation gap for women in research by joining Research Goes Red: www.projectbaseline.com/studies/gored
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987W.500N.,#105
AmericanFork,UT84003(385)265-2067
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SaltLakeCity,UT
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SaltLakeCity,UT84108(385)433-6505
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Lehi-AmericanFork,UT
987W.500N.,#105
AmericanFork,UT84003(385)265-2067
1357SStateStreet Orem,UT
Orem,UT84097(385)270-8499
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A SINCERE THANK YOU TO
ALL WHO MAKE THIS
PROGRAM POSSIBLE
Venue Partners
Capitol Theatre
Host Hotel
Hilton SLC Center
Event Hosts
Hilton SLC Center
Kendra Scott City Creek
This Is The Place Heritage Park
Production Partners
BAM ZAC, LLC
Daynes Music
Fat Fish Media
Faces Photography
Salt Lake County Arts & Culture
Taylor Wilson
Competition Magazine Partners
Chad Braithwaite, Faces Photography
North Star Printing
Official Auditors
Bruce & Laura Everingham
Royalty Flowers
Five Penny Floral
MUSO Partners & Sponsors
Chick-fl-A Utah
Chad Braithwaite, Faces Photography
Crown the Nation
David Weincek
Kendra Scott City Creek
Photos by Greg
River Bridge Event Center
SCERA Center for the Arts
Steve Phan
Utah Tech University
Weber State University
Ypsilon Dresses
Meals Provided to our Judges & Contestants
Benihana
Blue Iguana
Catering by Bryce Chick-fl-A
Kneader’s Bakery
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Olive Garden Sugarhouse
Gifts/Services Provided to Miss Utah & Contestants
Beaches Tanning
Böhme
Creations by Niki Lassiter
Crown Couture Collection
Empire Beauty Studios
Find Mojo
Flare Beauty
Minky Couture
Morgan Presley Dental
Regalia Magnifcent Apparel
Routine Health & Hormone
Shear Savage Salon
SHINE Cosmetics
The Showroom Salt Lake City
VASA Fitness
MUSO Executive Board
Madison Wilson
Whitney Thomas
Del Beatty
Tawnya Monson
Amy Rasmussen
MUSO Field Directors
Lea Ann Southwick, State Field Director
Charlotte Graham Erika Horne
Shala Hunsaker Alisha Lee
Celeste Lojik Keri Meservey
Laurie Pitchforth
MUSO State Volunteers
Sydnee Alger Jackie Bohls
Bini Brockbank Malena Case
Camille Cottle Julie Edwards
Jake Galovich Ari Hansen
Brittney Itri Heather Jackman
Kelsey Jenson Denice Kitchen
Brittany Lyons Dawn Meeves
Jessica Orvin Sam Thomas
Miss Utah 2025 Hostesses
Camille Cottle, Hostess Chair
Ashley Bolt Carrie Davis
Jonique Dyer Brandi Harris
Amber Hudson Dana Hufey
Dawn Meeves Heather Randall
Jennifer Reeves Sheri Savage
Tifany Terry
Miss Utah’s Teen Volunteers
Amy Rasmussen, Director
Brynn Lindley, Miss Utah’s Teen
Austri Biddinger Kate Daly
Jake Galovich Savvy Jardine
Makenzie Memmott Terri Watkins
Miss Utah 2024
Paris Matthews
Paris’s family and friends
Local Partners
Local volunteers
Local sponsors and partners
Supporting City/County/Fair ofcials
Contestants’ families and friends
“We learned about gratitude and humility - that so many people had a hand in our success.” - Michelle Obama
