[ORLANDO, FL] August 31, 2025 – The Miss America Organization is proud to announce the distinguished panel of judges for the Miss America 2026 Preliminary Competition. This accomplished group represents excellence across education, business, the arts, philanthropy, and community leadership. With their combined expertise and diverse perspectives, they will play a critical role in evaluating this year’s delegates as they compete for the opportunity to serve as the next national brand ambassador for Miss America, the 98th woman to hold the crown in the organization’s 104-year history.
The Preliminary Panel of Judges includes: David Ambroz, Dr. Sarah Hillyer, Charlotte La Niear, Nicole Noonan, Esq., David McFarland, Alonzo Fulgham, and Iesha Reed. Each judge brings a unique professional background and a shared dedication to inspiring the next generation of female leaders.
The preliminary judges are entrusted with ensuring that every delegate is evaluated with fairness, respect, and recognition of her individuality, talent, and potential. Their collective insights will help identify the woman who will carry forward the legacy of Miss America as a role model and representative of the organization’s mission of empowering women to lead.
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About Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. (MASF):
Miss America is the nation’s leading empowerment and service platform for young women, supporting their personal and professional growth while inspiring them to serve as positive role models in their communities. Since 1921, Miss America has been dedicated to its mission of
“Empowering Women to Lead,” engaging thousands of young women nationwide, ages 14-28, as local and state brand ambassadors committed to community service.
Through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3), the program awards the largest amount of scholarships to women in America.