[ORLANDO, FL] September 4, 2025 – The Miss America Organization is proud to recognize the outstanding delegates who shined in the 2026 Miss America’s Got Talent Preliminary Competition. Hosted at the Walt Disney Theater in the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the evening highlighted the diverse and unique talents of all 104 Teen and Miss delegates.
This year’s Preliminary Panel of Judges included Jim Caruso, Nikki Snelson, Mykal Kilgore, Craig Holzberg, Nicole Hudson, Thomas Mizer, and Nina Hudson. Together, they brought a wealth of expertise and perspectives from across the entertainment industry, ensuring a fair and dynamic evaluation process.
Looking ahead, the Teen delegates will compete in the Miss America’s Teen Final Competition on Saturday, September 6, at 7:00 PM. The excitement will culminate on Sunday, September 7, at 7:00 PM, with the crowning of the 98th Miss America.
MISS PRELIMINARY TALENT AWARDS SPONSORED BY KAWAI PIANOS
The Preliminary Talent Awards honor delegates for their passion, artistic expression, and dedication to their craft, with each winner receiving a $3,000 scholarship.
Congratulations to the following delegates:
Miss New York, Cassie Donegan
Miss Arkansas, Kennedy Holland
Miss Utah, Jordyn Bristol
TEEN PRELIMINARY TALENT AWARDS SPONSORED BY KAWAI PIANOS
The Preliminary Talent Awards honor delegates for their passion, artistic expression, and dedication to their craft, with each winner receiving a $1,500 scholarship.
Congratulations to the following delegates:
Miss New Jersey’s Teen, Delaney Higgins
Miss Texas’ Teen, Emma Fossum
Miss Indiana’s Teen, Addison Chattin
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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.
I know that the lyrics are dated; but growing up with the Miss America song, the pageant isn’t the same without it. Perhaps just the music with no lyrics?