2023 Program Book

Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen Table of Contents

Introduction Letter..........................................................................................2 Miss Delaware Board & Committees.....................................................3 Meet our Emcee...............................................................................................4 Meet our Anniversary Performers............................................................5 Meet our Judges..............................................................................................6 Meet our Young Diamonds........................................................................9 Farewell from Brynn String, Miss Delaware's Teen 2022............10 Brynn's Favorite Photos.................................................................................11 Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates...............................................................14 Teen Program...................................................................................................15 Teen Delegates...............................................................................................16 Teen Scholarships and Awards..............................................................25 Miss Delaware's Teen Forevers...............................................................26 Farewell from Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022..........................28 Grace's Favorite Photos..............................................................................29 Meet the 2023 Miss Delegates................................................................32 Miss Program....................................................................................................33 Miss Delegates................................................................................................34 Miss Scholarships and Awards................................................................44 Miss Delaware Forevers.............................................................................45 Miss Delaware's Forevers Scholarship Fund…………………………......53 Miss Delaware Levels of Giving………………………………………………....…54 Miss Delaware Sponsors……………………………………………………………...…55

Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen 2023 Competitions

Welcome to the 2023 Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen Competitions!

The Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization Board of Directors welcomes you to Harrington's Raceway and Casino for our historic 82nd Miss Delaware and 18th Miss Delaware's Teen Competitions.

This year, 36 driven young women will compete for the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Brynn String, Miss Delaware's Teen 2022, and Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022. These delegates are bright, talented, community-service driven, and ready to take on the role of an ambassador to the State.

To Brynn and Grace, congratulations on an outstanding year of service! Your dedication to your community service initiatives was unmatched. We hope this year was everything you dreamed of, and more. We are confident that wherever your future takes you, you will do great things! Thank you for taking us along on your journey this year!

Thank you to the families and friends of our 2023 delegates. Your support of these young women means the world. Thank you to all of our clothing, food, prize, and scholarship sponsors, as well as the backstage staff, entertainers, emcees, judges, and volunteers. This weekend would not have been possible without you. We are so grateful for your dedication to our organization!

AMANDA KUHL & SUE KUHLING CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

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Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen

Board & Committees -EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERSCO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS: AMANDA KUHL and SUE KUHLING FIELD DIRECTOR: HOWARD GORDON BUSINESS MANAGER: JOANNA TALMO SECRETARY: LINDA WELLER PRESS and PUBLICITY: CHERYL CROWE SCHOLARSHIPS: TRACEY ENG

-COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONSLEGAL ADVISOR: BETH ANN JONES, ESQ. (Miss DE ‘91) TREASURY: MARY DEBUS JUDGES CHAIR: BRITTANY LEWIS (Miss DE '14) SOCIAL MEDIA and WEBSITE: AMANDA KUHL (Miss DE ‘16 & Miss DE's Teen ‘08) and JOANNA TALMO (Miss DE ‘18) DIVERSITY, EQUITY and INCLUSION: JOANNA TALMO (Miss DE ‘18) HOSPITALITY: LAURA KURTZ

-PRODUCTION & STAGE CREWPRODUCER and CHOREOGRAPHER: BROOKE MITCHELL (Miss DE '15) STAGE MANAGER: HALEY ALEXANDER (Miss DE's Teen '22) STAGE CREW: DAWN ALEXANDER

Special Thanks Special Thanks to the Miss Delaware Forevers Advisory Board for its dedication and support of the Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization.

The 2023 Forevers Advisory Board members are: BECKY RAPPOCCIO (Miss DE ‘05, Leader), BETH ANN JONES (Miss DE ‘91), MICHELLE HARRIS ANDERSON (Miss DE ‘95), LINDA KURTZ RISK (Miss DE ‘04), BRITTANY LEWIS (Miss DE ‘14), AMANDA KUHL (Miss DE ‘16 & Miss DE's Teen ‘08), JOANNA TALMO (Miss DE '18)

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Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen Meet our Emcee

Kayla Martell Miss Delaware 2010

Kayla Martell was crowned Miss Delaware 2010 and proudly represented her home state at the Miss America 2011 Pageant where she placed as a Top 10 Finalist during the live telecast on ABC. During the pageant, Kayla was voted “America’s Choice” to become the next Miss America. She is most proud of her work related to the autoimmune condition, Alopecia Areata, and for sharing her story on television shows such as 20/20, The Wendy Williams Show, The Doctors, and many more.

For her service work, Kayla was recognized by the US Junior Chamber as one of Ten Outstanding Young Americans and with the WBOC Jefferson Award.

In the years following her reign, Kayla led a National Women’s Hair Loss Seminar Tour throughout over 25 states and served on the National 4-H Board of Trustees where she traveled as an advocate to Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia.

Kayla currently resides in Wilmington, Delaware with her husband, Kevin and their three feisty and adorable children.

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Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen

Anniversary Spotlight Performers

Sky Knox

Miss Delaware 's Teen 2018 Sky is a Division 1 competitive gymnast and a classically trained musician in violin, piano, and vocals. As a Pre-Law student, she is studying American Studies with a minor in Black and Feminist Studies at the Ivy League institution Cornell University. Sky is a former Miss Delaware's Teen (2018) & Miss Delaware Teen USA (2021). She used her platforms to found two nonprofit initiatives called Brave Early Screening Teens, & I'm Possible. In the future, Sky hopes to continue with her passion for community impact with a potential marketing and entertainment law career.

Becca Jackson Miss Delaware 2013

Becca is thrilled to return to the Miss Delaware Stage for her 10-year anniversary. She currently resides in Wilmington, DE as a voice and acting teacher to students all across the country. Her students have gone to feature in their school productions, Broadway productions, and in Blockbuster movies. Becca herself is a professional actor who can be seen on your TV most recently in the Cento commercial, Gilly and Keeves, and an upcoming horror film. Feel free to find out more at beccajacksonstudio.com "All the love to the future Miss DE!"

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Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen Meet our Judges

David Clegg has been engaged in public service in North Carolina for four decades. He has served as Assistant Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Commerce, as Deputy Chairman of the North Carolina Employment Security Commission, and has been appointed as county manager and county attorney in three counties. He is currently the County Manager and County Attorney of Tyrrell County, NC, is the Chairman of the Raleigh Arts Commission, and served on the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Center Commission and the North Carolina Inaugural Commission. He is the Chairman of the Board of the North Carolina Partnership for the Sounds and a board member of Beaufort County Community College.

David has been involved with the Miss America Pageant for 46 years as a local pageant executive director and Miss North Carolina Pageant Scholarship Chairman. He is currently the Chairman of the Board of the Miss North Carolina Organization and corporate secretary of the tax-exempt pageant scholarship foundation.

David is a graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and received a Master’s Degree in Theatre and Speech from the University of South Carolina. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Law and is licensed to practice before the US Supreme Court.

He has been awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor in North Carolina, and received the NC Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service as well as the Richardson Preyer Award for Excellence in Public Service from Leadership North Carolina. He is a Certified Tree Farmer in Lee and Chatham County, NC, and is a member of the Screen Actors Guild/American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.

Marisa Buchheit is an operatic soprano who has performed in critically acclaimed productions around the world. She sings in twelve languages, including those of her own ethnic heritage: Thai, Chinese, and German. She studied vocal performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music where she graduated with Academic Honors and served as President of Mu Phi Epsilon Music Fraternity. She recently completed her Master's Degree in opera at DePaul University with Academic Distinction. In 2014 Marisa won the title of Miss Illinois and represented the state with a year of extensive travel, performances, and presentations at major events in her native Chicago and around the state. In the Miss Illinois competition, she won the Grand Talent Award and the top scholarship award before later competing in ABC’s nationally televised Miss America 2015 broadcast.

Marisa performed the title role in the American Premiere of Paul Abraham’s operetta The Flower of Hawaii with Folks Operetta, where she was touted for her “bell-clear coloratura” being “ideally complemented by her stylish beauty in the role of Princess Laia/Suzanne” (PBS Chicago). Other recent performances include concerts and fully staged operas in the United States, Italy, France, Austria, and Thailand. She has also been a featured soloist with the Elgin and Peoria Symphony Orchestras every season since 2015. Marisa has sung the national anthem for the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bulls, the Chicago Air & Water Show, and also for many charitable organizations.

Marisa is a frequent recitalist and featured soloist in the Community Chapter Concerts of the Lyric Opera of Chicago. An award-winning artist, she won the LiPuma Memorial Scholarship Award in the Casa Italia Annual Vocal Competition and was a finalist in the Classical Singer Vocal Competition. She is also co-founder of the soprano trio Très Belle, which performs with Ravinia Festival’s Educational Outreach program and at venues throughout Illinois. In addition to her busy performance schedule, Marisa is a voice, piano, and guitar teacher and serves as Music Director at Concordia Lutheran Church. She is also a real estate agent on a top-performing team with Century 21 SGR in Chicago.

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Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen Meet our Judges

Amy Arness was raised on a farm near Windom, MN, and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a BA in Communications. She worked at Disney World; was a Manager for Dayton’s (now Macy’s) Department stores, but decided to be a ‘full-time’ Mom when she and her husband Richard started their family. She has resided in Fargo, North Dakota, for 33 years and has been married for 38 years. They have a son, Derek, an RN in the ICU at Mayo HospitalJacksonville, FL. They also have a daughter Jacky, who was Miss North Dakota 2014, Miss America 2015’s Miss Congeniality, and Judge’s Choice Finalist. Jacky is now an Associate at a Law firm.

Amy served on the National Board of Directors for PTA; was subsequently Appointed Governance member to National PTA’s Programs committee and as the lead to the Reflections Arts program. She was chosen as the ND delegate to the National Council of States meeting on the Strategic Vision and was appointed to the ND Department of Education Task Force on Implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act. For the past 12 years, she has made visits to Legislators on ‘the Hill’ (virtually during COVID) in Washington DC and will continue to advocate for Education going forward.

Upon completing her two-term Presidency of the North Dakota PTA, she was honored with the North Dakota PTA Lifetime Achievement Award, the National PTA Lifetime Achievement Award, and the President’s Distinguished Service Award. In addition to her PTA work, Amy has done extensive volunteer work, including but not limited to Board work for Trollwood Performing Arts School, FutureBuilders, Lake Agassiz Girls Choir, Gooseberry Park Players, Fargo Moorhead Community Theater, Fargo South Theater program, Sanford Hospitals, Medical Alliance, Hope Church, and Distinguished Young Women.

Ryann Richardson made history when she was crowned the 50th Anniversary Miss Black America. Before that, the tech executive and diversity & inclusion advocate spent a decade building brands and culture for companies spanning early-stage startups (Victor) to billion-dollar "unicorns" (Uber) to the Fortune500 (T-Mobile). Her work earned her a spot as the youngest honoree on Savoy Magazine’s list of Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America and set her on the path of discovering her unique purpose as a champion for underrepresented voices.

Today, as an activist and social entrepreneur, Ryann champions diverse participation in the political process and public policy that better serves long-marginalized and exploited Transportation) Pete Buttigieg's 2020 campaign.

She alsofor serves boards of non-profit organizations, communities. She was appointed as aPresidential national campaign surrogate (nowon USthe Secretary Secure the Ballot and Climate Power, guiding efforts focused on voter registration in underrepresented populations and environmental justice, respectively.

As a keynote speaker, Ryann travels the US giving talks on diversity and inclusion, ethical technology, and the intersection of social equity, racial justice, and culture. She’s graced stages for clients, including LinkedIn, SXSW, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Wonder Women Tech, the US Black Chamber of Commerce, and Citibank. Her 2020 TEDx Talk offers a sociological perspective on the relationship between beauty and power, and argues the feminist case for women weaponizing beauty against patriarchal society. ESSENCE Magazine called it “...The best 16 minutes you’ll have this year.”

Ryann stars in the feature documentary, Subjects of Desire, exploring the politics of race and beauty while exposing the deliberate and often dangerous portrayals of Black women in the media. The critically acclaimed film premiered to audiences in the US and Canada at SXSW and the Toronto International Film Festival and is available to stream now on STARZ. 7

Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen Meet our Judges

Trey Gregg is an artist born in Maryland, raised in Pennsylvania, and currently residing in Winterthur, Delaware. Gregg is 23 years old and recently graduated from Shenandoah University/Shenandoah Conservatory, earning a BFA in Dance in May 2022.

Gregg has worked with choreographers such as Daniel Padierna, Erica Helm, Shylo Martinez, and Maurice Fraga. He has been lucky enough to have worked with renowned choreographers such as Yoshito Sakuraba and Sidra Bell as the Director of Photography in her work "Inhabitant."

He has worked with the world-renowned ballet company Ballet Hispanco and performed as a featured soloist/ ensemble member in their work entitled "Batucada Fantástica." He is also seen as a dancer in the movie "A Cupid For Christmas," directed by Blane Weaver. He also worked at Cedar Point amusement park in 2022 as a swing for four different shows throughout the summer months. Gregg also is an emerging choreographer, developing his skills on wide age ranges, and has set works with Shenandoah Conservatory Arts Academy, various studios competition teams, and along with Kinetic Canvas: Andy Warhol, directed by Lauren Carnesi-Daniels.

Trey continues his passion for teaching and has joined the Oxford Center for Dance, E-Street Dance Academy, and Delaware Arts Conservatory faculty. Gregg concentrates in the styles of jazz, contemporary, modern, lyrical, ballet, and musical theater. He has won choreography awards for various dance competitions throughout his years of teaching and encouraging students to go outside their comfort zone, try something new, and explore their limitations.

Special Thanks Special Thanks to our 2023 Auditors, our Judges Chair, as well as our 2023 Special Award Scholarship Judges!

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Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen

Meet our Young Diamonds

Harmony

Scarlett

Daniela

Cambri

Rebecca

Alleigh

Marlee

Emily

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Miss Delaware's Teen Farewell from Brynn

Delaware, It has been an honor to serve you these last 14 months. This past year has been one of the most extraordinary years of my life. There are no words to describe the joy that being a titleholder has brought to me. The growth that I have seen this past year has been truly amazing. Growth in myself and growth in this organization. The experience and confidence I have gained this year will forever have an impact on my life. I have learned so much about myself, my state, and others and have made the most of every second of my time as Miss Delaware’s Teen. The growth that I have seen in myself can also be translated into this organization. Last year I competed alongside 6 other teens. This year there will be 17 teens competing for my title and I am so proud to have been a part of this growth.

Of course, I could not have made it here on my own so there are a ton of people who I would like to thank. First our amazing sponsors. Chuck Ivins for sponsoring all of our beautiful flowers, Christine with Blue Palm Tanning, Ronnie and Debbie from Bridal Suite of Johnstown for sponsoring my Miss America’s Teen gown, Shana from Cecile, Liz Martin, TADA, Miss Sandy with Capturing your Bliss for taking all of my amazing photos, and of course my amazing choreographers Olivia Caraballo for choreographing all of my tap dances this year, and Nova Gaffney for choreographing my final performance. Next, I would like to thank the Miss Delaware Board for all your help this year, the enthusiasm and love you have shown me this year is something so special. I will not forget all the appearances and events that I had the opportunity to experience with each of you, and I am so thankful for all that you do.

Mom, thank you for letting me live out this dream my way. We are so different, yet so the same and you are the true inspiration behind me becoming Miss Delaware’s Teen. Dad, thank you for living life with a titleholder all over again.

Thank you both for getting me everywhere I needed to be this year. Grandma and Grandpa, thank you for stepping in to help get me to appearances this year whenever needed, helping with my wardrobe and other community service projects, you guys really are my biggest fans. Sophie, thank you for being one of my biggest mentors this year. I don't know what I would do without you.

My time in this organization started at 4 weeks old, and from then on I always knew I wanted to be like the “big girls” that were competing, even when I told everyone I was never competing for Miss Delaware because “it wasn’t my thing” I always secretly knew that I would someday be here. After getting crowned in April of last year I remember thinking “This feels like coming home.” Although my time as Miss Delaware’s Teen 2022 has come to an end, my time with this organization is far from over. I love this organization with my whole heart and plan on staying involved for a long time to come. It has been an honor to wear Delaware across my chest for the past 14 months and I will never forget the incredible year I have had. As for my future, I will graduate high school in 2025 and go on to college. I hope to pursue pediatric physical therapy and specialize in children with disabilities.

Delaware, you have my whole heart. Thank you for allowing me to represent you

Brynn String MISS DELAWARE'S TEEN 2022

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Brynn's Favorites

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Brynn's Favorites

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Miss Delaware's Teen Competition Program

Young Diamonds Production Number "Gold" Brynn String, Miss Delaware's Teen 2022, Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022, and the 2023 Miss Delaware Young Diamonds

“The National Anthem” Ashley Swanson, Miss Delaware's Teen 2016 Opening Number “Gold / Gold" Brynn String, Miss Delaware's Teen 2022, and 2023 Delegates

Talent Competition Introduction of Forever Miss Delaware's Teens

Delegate Introductions Spotlight Performance Brynn String, Miss Delaware's Teen 2022

Introduction of Emcee Kayla Martell, Miss Delaware 2010

Evening Gown Competition "Fire N Gold"

Onstage Conversation Competition Spotlight Performance Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022

Spotlight Performance Brynn String, Miss Delaware's Teen 2022

Announcement of Top 5 Finalists Introduction of Judges Farewell to Miss Delaware's Teen 2022, Brynn String

Health & Fitness Competition "Gold"

Parade of 2023 Delegates "Golden"

Anniversary Spotlight Sky Knox, Miss Delaware's Teen 2018

Award Presentations 2023 Miss Delaware Delegates Introductions Crowning of Miss Delaware's Teen 2023 and Announcement of Runners Up

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Teen Delegates

Miss Delaware's Teen Scholarships & Awards Academic Achievement $250 Scholarship Provided by Ken Maclary Community Service Award $250 Scholarship Provided by Tracey Eng & Howard Gordon Overall Interview Award $250 Scholarship Provided by Ken Maclary Non-Finalist Interview Award $200 Scholarship Provided by Cheryl Crowe Overall Talent/HERStory Award $250 Scholarship Provided by Carly Economos Linden, Miss Delaware's Teen 2005 Non-Finalist Talent/HERStory Award $200 Scholarship Provided by Kim Provo & Family Overall Onstage Conversation Award $100 Scholarship Provided by Brooke Mitchell, Miss Delaware 2015 Congeniality Award $300 Scholarship Provided by George Lee

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Miss Delaware's Teen Scholarships & Awards Miss Delaware’s Teen 2023 $2,000 Scholarship Provided by MDSO Official State Crown and Crown Box Amanda Kuhl, Miss DE's Teen 2008 and Miss Delaware 2016 Official State Sash Sue and Bob Kuhling Official Crown Pin Haley Alexander, Miss DE's Teen 2021, and Dawn Alexander Gifts Flowers by Ivins Florists Gift Certificate to The Bridal Suite of Johnstown Gift Certificate to Regalia Magnificent Apparel Gift Certificate to Claire's Fashions Gift Certificate to Sybaritic Bags and Clothing Nationals Consulting by Christine Rich Pageant Consulting Consulting Package by Eskew Studios Sunless Tanning Package by Blue Palm Tanning Fitness Package by Ignite Kickboxing Photography Package by K. Garcia Productions Custom Artwork by Joanna Lynn Designs Jewelry Gift by Heritage Jewelers Followed by Amanda Bucci - Social Media Content Branding Book Soaps from La Nunery Apothecary Transportation to Nationals Magnetic Car Signs Photo Pads 1st Runner-Up to Miss Delaware’s Teen 2023 $750 Scholarship Provided by Linda Lee M. Weller

2nd Runner-Up to Miss Delaware’s Teen 2023 $600 Scholarship Provided by MDSO 3rd Runner-Up to Miss Delaware’s Teen 2023 $450 Scholarship Provided by MDSO 4th Runner-Up to Miss Delaware’s Teen 2023 $300 Scholarship Provided by MDSO 25

Miss Delaware's Teen Forevers

2005

Carly Economos

2010

Katelynn Mayers

2006

Lauren Gagliardino

2011

Tori Brown-O'Brien

2007

2008

Chelsea Betts

Amanda Debus

Non-Finalist Talent Award Preliminary Talent Award

Miss Delaware 2016

2012

Morgan Burris

2013

Tanee De Costa Spirit of America Winner

2009

Danielle Marshall

2014

Grace Otlley Miss Delaware 2022 Random Acts of Kindness Winner

2015

Michelle Ley

2016

Ashley Swanson

2017

Nicole Hannah

Outstanding Achievement in Academic Life Winner

2018

Sky Knox

2019-2020

Jacqueline Means Teens in Action Winner (Tie)

Who will be Miss Delaware's Teen 2023?

2021

Haley Alexander

2022

Brynn String 26

Miss Delaware's Teen Celebrating Anniversaries

15 years

10 years

Miss Delaware's Teen 2008

Miss Delaware's Teen 2013

Amanda Debus

Tanee DeCosta

5 years

Miss Delaware's Teen 2018

Sky Knox 27

Miss Delaware Farewell from Grace

My journey to becoming Miss Delaware began on January 11, 2014, the day I competed for Miss Greenville’s Teen. I wore black velvet pumps with an all black outfit, paired with the world’s ugliest cheetah print scarf for the opening number. I barely paid attention during rehearsals because I had no doubt in my mind that I was going to lose my first ever pageant. As a self-conscious, mildly self-hating angsty teenager, this was typically my mindset for new undertakings. (Do them because my parents made me and expect to fail so that the disappointment of losing wouldn’t hit so hard.)

On January 11, 2014, I didn’t lose; I won. Then on June 16th, 2014, I won again, and I went to bed for the first time as Miss Delaware’s Teen. I also went to bed for the first time thinking that maybe, just maybe, I could accomplish more than I had ever imagined would be possible in my life. Fast forward 8 years, I stood on the Milton Theater stage in AWE that I would get to relive my Teen experience, but this time as Miss Delaware 2022. And I can say that this year has been equally humbling and exhilarating.

THANK YOU to every single person who supported and helped me get to this point, as well as throughout my year.

Kyle, aka my best friend and personal driver and photographer, thank you for being you and helping me be the BEST me I could be :) Thank you mom and dad for encouraging me to take the leap and compete in 2014 as well as continuing to support my involvement in this organization. Thank you Chrissy, Joe, and Mabel for supporting and loving me as your own. Thank you to all of my other family and friends for sending me love from near and far. I’ve seen it, heard it, and felt it this entire year.

Sue and Amanda, thank you for always ensuring I met deadlines for Miss America and felt as prepared as possible for my week at Mohegan Sun (including going with me to New York to find my dream dress). Jo, you’re the big sister I never had. You’re a great business manager, but I’m most grateful for your friendship and mentorship beyond the crown. I always knew I could lean on you for advice. Cheryl, thank you for being a great supporter of both me and the organization. Tracey, George and Howard, all of you have supported me as a titleholder and simply as Grace Otley ever since I met you. For that I am forever grateful. All of you hold a special place in my heart as mentors and friends. Linda, even though you made me show up to appearances UNGODLY early, I love you. You know you are like a second mom to me and my life/year as Miss Delaware would’ve been drastically different without you. Lastly, to Shawna, thank you for believing in my potential as a teen and miss contestant. I am extremely grateful for your mentorship, love and support throughout the years.

Shana and Cecile Boutique, words cannot explain how grateful I am for your sponsorship throughout this year. I could NEVER have imagined being able to design such an elegant, sexy, and drop dead stunning gown for my walk on the Miss America stage.

Shana, thank you for taking the time to travel to NY with me as well as advise me all year about the best fashion choices. Chuck, thank you for your beautiful floral arrangements which welcomed me into the year. Delaware Limo, you made me feel like a true celebrity every time I travelled with you. Thank you for being so open minded when I approached you about a sponsorship and for making it possible for me to travel to events throughout the year. Lastly, Ed. Ed, you are a rockstar and you know it. Anyone who has the HONOR of having you as a driver and a friend is lucky. Driving with you was fun, but talking and getting to know you was the cherry on top. Thank you for being a mentor and friend to me throughout this year, and the years to come.

Miss DE Formers, Thank you for immediately welcoming me into the family with open and loving arms. Whether it was Miss America prep, a supportive text message here and there, or merely keeping me in your thoughts throughout the year, I am heavily grateful for you and our friendship. To Sophie especially, thank you for caring about me and being the voice of wisdom when I needed it. It is beyond evident why the Delaware community chose you to continue serving this great state.

BRYNN: Your enthusiasm as Miss DE's Teen never ceased to amaze me. I loved watching you thrive throughout your year and I look forward to watching the amazing things you continue to do with your life.

To the next Miss Delaware, my excitement for you and your journey is indescribable. I am here to support you in any way that you might need. Enjoy your year and remember that through all of the glitz, glamour, and Delaware fame, the most important thing a Miss Delaware can be is humble. This year is not about YOU, rather what YOU can do for the Delaware community.

Grace Otley MISS DELAWARE 2022

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Grace's Favorites

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Grace's Favorites

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Miss Delaware Competition Program

Young Diamonds Production Number "Gold" Brynn String, Miss Delaware's Teen 2022, Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022, and the 2023 Miss Delaware Young Diamonds

“The National Anthem” Beth Ann Jones, Miss Delaware 1991 Opening Number “Goin' for Gold / Black & Gold” Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022, and 2023 Delegates

Talent Competition Introduction of Forever Miss Delawares

Delegate Introductions

Spotlight Performance Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022

Introduction of Emcee Kayla Martell, Miss Delaware 2010

Evening Gown Competition "Gold"

Onstage Conversation Competition

Spotlight Performance Miss Delaware's Teen 2023

Spotlight Performance Grace Otley, Miss Delaware 2022

Announcement of Top 5 Finalists

Introduction of Judges

Farewell to Miss Delaware 2022, Grace Otley

Health & Fitness Competition "Golden"

Parade of 2023 Delegates "Golden"

Anniversary Spotlight Rebecca Jackson, Miss Delaware 2013

Award Presentations

2023 Miss Delaware's Teen Delegates Introductions

Crowning of Miss Delaware 2023 and Announcement of Runners Up

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

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Meet the 2023 Delegates

Miss Delaware Scholarships & Awards

Academic Achievement $250 Scholarship Provided by Randy Eng, Connie Cairns, Christine Milea Debi Wilson Community Service Award $500 Scholarship Provided by MDSO Carol Maclary Excellence in Education Award Winner $1,000 - 1st Runner Up $750 - 2nd Runner Up $500, Scholarships Provided by Ken Maclary STEM Award $250 Scholarship Provided by Jennifer Cohan

Non-Finalist Talent/HERStory Award $300 Scholarship Provided by Ken Maclary, in honor of Carol Maclary

Women in Business Award $250 Scholarship Provided by Shawna Saints Wainright & Tracey Eng

Overall Onstage Conversation Award $350 Scholarship Provided by Laura & Jim Kurtz

Overall Interview Award $500 Scholarship Provided by Linda Lee M. Weller

Non-Finalist Onstage Conversation Award $250 Scholarship Provided by Linda Kurtz Risk, Miss Delaware 2004, and Dennis Risk

Non-Finalist Interview Award $300 Scholarship Provided by Jean Toman

Congeniality Award $300 Scholarship Provided by George Lee

Overall Talent/HERStory Award $500 Scholarship Provided by Ken Maclary, in honor of Carol Maclary

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Miss Delaware

Scholarships & Awards Miss Delaware 2023 $12,000 Scholarship Provided by MDSO & The Miss Delaware Forevers Scholarship Fund $500 Cash Gift provided by Anne Marie Jarka-Hajjar, Miss Delaware 1987 In-Kind Scholarships University of Delaware - Undergraduate Degree ($2,000 per year for four years) Goldy-Beacom College - $2,000 Undergraduate or Graduate Tuition Wilmington University - Full tuition and fees for Undergraduate Degree Official State Crown Sue & Bob Kuhling Crown Box & Official Crown Pin Carol & Larry Stevens Official State Sash The Sash Company Gifts Flowers by Ivins Florists Gift Certificate to Cecile Boutique Gift Certificate to The Bridal Suite of Johnstown Gift Certificate to Regalia Magnificent Apparel Gift Certificate to Claire's Fashions Gift Certificate to Sybaritic Bags and Clothing Nationals Consulting by Christine Rich Pageant Consulting Consulting Package by Eskew Studios Sunless Tanning Package by Blue Palm Tanning Fitness Package by Ignite Kickboxing Photography Package by K. Garcia Productions Custom Artwork by Joanna Lynn Designs Jewelry Gift by Heritage Jewelers Followed by Amanda Bucci - Social Media Content Branding Book Soaps from La Nunery Apothecary Transportation to Nationals Magnetic Car Signs Photo Pads 1st Runner-Up to Miss Delaware 2023 $3,000 Scholarship Provided by MDSO

2nd Runner-Up to Miss Delaware 2023 $2,500 Scholarship Provided by MDSO 3rd Runner-Up to Miss Delaware 2023 $2,000 Scholarship Provided by MDSO 4th Runner-Up to Miss Delaware 2023 $1,000 Scholarship Provided by MDSO 44

Miss Delaware Forevers

1933

Victoria George*

1936

Lillian Shamers*

1937

Nickey Harriett*

1940

Peggy Insolo*

1941

Verona Smith*

Top 15 Finalist

1942

Dorothy McGovern

1952

Helen Blackwell*

1943

Mona Crawford

1953

Lois Ann Alava

1944

Jacquelyn Vasseur*

1954

Barbara Woodall*

Top 10 Finalist Preliminary Talent Award

1957

Kathleen Ann D'Attilio

1958

Nancy M. Williams

1959

Esther Olney

1950

Lorna Edwardson*

1955

Joanne Sakowski

1960

Deborah Dunkenfield Benoit

1951

Suzanne Parrott

1956

Janice Olson

1961

Robin Jane Whempner Non-Finalist Talent Award

*Deceased

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Miss Delaware Forevers

1962

Alice Richards Watts

1967

Susan Alice Levens*

1963

Diane Beverly Isaacs*

1968

Gayle Freeman

1964

Anita Gail Eubank

1969

Margo Ewing

1965

Kathleen Grandell

1970

Linda Sue Hitchens

1966

Mary Lee Mancini

1971

Paula Kusmer Congeniality Award

1972

Catherine Lawton

1973

Jackie LaGuardia

1974

Kathleen Attanasi

Top 10 Finalist Preliminary Talent Award

1977

1978

Sandra Louise Aiken

Janice Anne Albro

Non-Finalist Talent Award

Preliminary Swimsuit Award

1979

Ann Lorraine Harrington 45

1975

1976

Elaine Campanelli

Day Deborah Rica Lipford

Non-Finalist Talent Award

Top 10 Finalist

1980

Andra Lee Dickerson

1981

Jodi Meade Graham

Miss Delaware Forevers

1982

Nancy Ellen Farley

1987

Anne Marie Jarka

1983

Tammy Renee Copeland

1988

Laura Kathleen Ludwig

1984

Nancy Lynne Ball

1989

Robin Lee Coutant

George J. Cavalier Talent Award

1992

Kathleen Ann Slavin

1997

Lori Ann Scott

1990

1991

Beth Ann Jones

Lisa Marie Munzert Non-Finalist Talent Award Quality of Life Finalist

1993

Jennifer Lin Kaczmarczyk

1994

Letitia Lee Pusey

Non-Finalist Talent Award

Alison Catherine White

1986

1985

Lisa Anne Patrick

1998

Jody Michelle Kelly

1995

Michelle Leslie Harris

1996

Aimée Michelle Voshell

Non-Finalist Talent Award

1999

Kama Boland

Non-Finalist Talent Award 47

2000

Junnie Cross

Preliminary Talent Award, Bert Parks Talent Award, Bernie Wayne Performing Arts Award, Quality of Life Finalist

2001

Erin Cooper

Miss Delaware Forevers

2002

Shoha Parekh

2003

Erin E. Williams

2004

Linda Kurtz

2005

Becky Bledsoe

2006

Jamie Ginn

Non-Finalist Talent Award

2007

Brittany Dempsey

2008

Galen Giaccone

2009

Heather Lehman

Top 15 Finalist Preliminary Talent Award

2012

2013

2014

2010

Maria Cahill

Top 10 Finalist Quality of Life 1st Runner Up

Non-Finalist Talent Award

2015

Alyssa Murray

Becca Jackson

Brittany Lewis

Non-finalist Interview Award Quality of Life Award Finalist

Brooke Mitchell

Non-Finalist Talent Award

Quality of Life 1st Runner Up

Non-Finalist Talent Award

2018

2019-2020

2017

Chelsea Bruce

Joanna Wicks

Hillary May 48

2011

Kayla Martell

2021

2016

Amanda Debus

2022

Sophie Phillips

Grace Otley

Equity and Justice Finalist

Forever Miss Americas Scholarship Winner

Miss Delaware

Celebrating Anniversaries

90 years

80 years

Miss Delaware 1933

Miss Delaware 1943

Victoria George*

Mona Crawford

70 years

65 years

Miss Delaware 1953

Miss Delaware 1958

Lois Anne Alava

Nancy M. Williams 49

Miss Delaware

Celebrating Anniversaries

60 years

55 years

Miss Delaware 1963

Miss Delaware 1968

Diane Beverly Isaacs*

Gayle Freeman

50 years

45 years

Miss Delaware 1973

Miss Delaware 1978

Jackie LaGuardia

Janice Anne Albro 50

Miss Delaware

Celebrating Anniversaries

40 years

35 years

Miss Delaware 1983

Miss Delaware 1988

Tammy Renee Copeland

Laura Kathleen Ludwig

30 years

25 years

Miss Delaware 1993

Miss Delaware 1998

Jennifer Kaczmarczyk

Jody Kelly 51

Miss Delaware

Celebrating Anniversaries

20 years

15 years

Miss Delaware 2003

Miss Delaware 2008

Erin Elizabeth Williams

Galen Giaccone

10 years

5 years

Miss Delaware 2013

Miss Delaware 2018

Becca Jackson

Joanna Wicks 52

The 2023 Miss Delaware Forevers Scholarship Since 1991 this scholarship has been funded by Miss Delaware Forevers and special family members. This year $7000 was given to the Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization, showcasing the unity of our Miss Delaware sisterhood and the shared belief of “paying it forward”.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to those who gave so generously: Dee Marie Joyce, In memory of my dear mother, “Nickey”, Miss Delaware 1937 Mona Crawford, Miss Delaware 1943, In memory of my darling daughter, Linda Gandolfo Suzanne Parrott, Miss Delaware 1951 The Barbara Woodall (1954) Hineman Miss Delaware Scholarship Award, given by the Hineman family Deborah Benoit Guilloz, Miss Delaware 1960 Alice Watts Stark, Miss Delaware 1962 Mary Lee Mancini Kleinkauf, Miss Delaware 1966 Gayle Freeman Brandt, Miss Delaware 1968 Margo Ewing Bane Woodacre, Miss Delaware 1969 Elaine Campanelli Santo, Miss Delaware 1975 Jodi Graham Parker, Miss Delaware 1981 Nancy Ball-Blake, Miss Delaware 1984 Anne Marie Jarka-Hajjar, Miss Delaware 1987 Lisa Munzert Bonacquisti, Miss Delaware 1990 Beth Ann Jones, Miss Delaware 1991 Michelle Harris Anderson, Miss Delaware 1995 Aimée Voshell String, Miss Delaware 1996 Jody Kelly Dallas, Miss Delaware 1998 Junnie Cross, Miss Delaware 2000 Linda Kurtz Risk, Miss Delaware 2004 Becky Bledsoe Rappoccio, Miss Delaware 2005 Galen Giaccone Cullen, Miss Delaware 2008 Heather Lehman Contant, Miss Delaware 2009 Kayla Martell, Miss Delaware 2010 Alyssa Murray, Miss Delaware 2012 Brittany Lee Lewis, Miss Delaware 2014 Amanda Debus Kuhl, Miss Delaware 2016 Joanna Wicks Talmo, Miss Delaware 2018 Sophie Phillips, Miss Delaware 2021 53

Miss Delaware & Miss Delaware's Teen Levels of Giving

PLATINUM DONOR - $5,000 Minimum Donation Hangsterfer’s Laboratories, Inc. – Beth Ann Jones The 2023 Miss Delaware Forevers Scholarship Fund Ken Maclary

EMERALD DONOR - $250 Minimum Donation Gayle Brandt Junnie Cross Mary Lee Kleinkauf Galen Giaccone Cullen Jennifer Cohan Laura and Jim Kurtz Jean Toman Carly Economos Linden Howard Gordon Mary and Joseph Debus Morgan’s of Delaware Sybaritic Boutique

GOLD DONOR - $2,500 Minimum Donation Regalia Magnificent Apparel Cecile Boutique SILVER DONOR - $1,000 Minimum Donation Amanda Kuhl Linda Kurtz Risk Linda Lee M. Weller Tracey Eng Ivins Florist Capturing Your Bliss Photography

BRONZE DONOR - $50 Minimum Donation Brittany Lewis Becky Rappoccio Dee Marie Joyce Debbie Guilloz Elaine Santo Joanna Wicks Talmo Alyssa Murray Suzanne Parrott Lisa Bonacquisti Aimée String Kayla Martell Alison White Jody Kelly Dallas Sophie Phillips Michelle Anderson Cheryl Crowe Nancy Ball Blake Brooke Mitchell Heather Lehman Contant Kim Provo Margo Woodacre Dawn Alexander Jodi Parker Connie Cairns Abby Joy Christine Milea Randy Eng La Nunery Apothecary

SAPPHIRE DONOR - $500 Minimum Donation Ali Watts Stark Mona Crawford Anne Marie Jarka-Hajjar Evan Hineman Sue and Bob Kuhling George Lee Del-One Federal Credit Union Blue Palm Tanning The Bridal Suite of Johnstown Heritage Jewelers Liz Martin Skincare and Makeup

Century Club Members Special Thanks to the Miss Delaware Century Club Members: AMANDA KUHL, LINDA LEE M. WELLER, HOWARD GORDON, ABBY JOY, MARY & JOSEPH DEBUS, BETH ANN JONES, MARY LEE KLEINKAUF, ANNE MARIE JARKA-HAJJAR, ALI WATTS STARK, GAYLE BRANDT, MONA CRAWFORD, JUNNIE CROSS, GALEN GIACCONE CULLEN

54

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Goldey-Beacom College supports Miss Delaware and their efforts to empower women and break barriers!

Best wishes to all the contestants as they positively impact our world!

For all interested in Achieving Greater and earning a master's degree, please contact Kimberly Anderson at (302)225-6270 or email her at anderson@gbc.edu.

Ask about GBC's *MBA, Analytical Track *MBA, Business Analytics *MA in Counseling Psychology * MS in Finance (live and online) ....and 13 more valuable graduate degrees at this QR Code:

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302-422-7584 fitzgeralds.us

Wilmington University offers best wishes to the

Miss Delaware Scholarship Competition participants.

For information about Wilmington University’s undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs, visit wilmu.edu.

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HELPING HANDS ENDING HUNGER

Helping Hands Ending Hunger empowers students to rescue uneaten food from school meals and join hands with their communities to alleviate childhood food insecurity, reduce food waste, encourage better educational outcomes, and shape a healthier world.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT, CAROLINE!

Our Sweet TaliaYour Miss Delaware journey all began with you idolizing Brooke Mitchell, Miss Delaware 2015 at the age of 5, then many of the future Miss Delaware contestants & Queens to follow, to now competing yourself. We’re not sure where the time has gone but we’re so incredibly proud of you and can’t wait to watch you rock that stage! Good luck tonight!!

Love – Mom, Dad, Demetreus, Nicco & Ellie

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Contact Jim Provo at 302-233-6847

Best of luck to Miss Wilmington, Caroline Scalora!

Uncle Dan

Alex Gray

Lexi Hall

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Sharpe

Ariana Zamani

The Travis Family

The Smarr Family

The Travis Family

Molly Campbell

The Travis Family

Cathy Rivera

The Travis Family

Nonna Scalora

Maria Sim

Carolyn Alaniz

The Buchanan Family

Sarah Turquitt

The Buchanan Family

Camille Colter

The Buchanan Family

JAYLYNN: CONTINUE YOUR PATH FORWARD TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS. WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU.

LOVE MOM, DAD, COLE, RUSTY AND ROSIE

GOOD LUCK JAYLYNN

302-382-0998

Lewes Meineke 16753 Coastal Hwy, Lewes, DE 19958 (302) 313-2820

Miss Cape Henlopen’s Teen 2023

Carly Favoroso

Carly –

We are all so proud of the work you have done to promote Inclusion for children with Intellectual Disabilities as part of your Community Service Initiative.

Keep your SHINE going for others ~your future is Bright!

All our love and support always: Mom~Scott~Joseph BB and Gus Cioci D~Mike~Jillian~Lauren~Rocco~Leo~Corinne~Seth Grammy and Poppy Uncle Mark~Aunt Kim~Kate~Justin~Alyssa~Theo Uncle Doug~Aunt Christina~Connor~Lexi Aunt Kim~Matt~Zach~Sammi

HELPING HANDS ENDING HUNGER Helping Hands Ending Hunger empowers students to rescue uneaten food from school meals and join hands with their communities to alleviate childhood food insecurity, reduce food waste, encourage better educational outcomes, and shape a healthier world.