[ORLANDO, FL] September 8, 2025 – The Miss America Organization is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Quality of Life Awards, celebrating delegates whose community service initiatives exemplify impact, innovation, and lasting commitment.
Miss Florida Paris Richardson was named the 2026 Quality of Life Award Winner, receiving a $10,000 scholarship. Miss South Carolina Sarah Kay Wrenn was named 1st Runner-Up with a $7,500 scholarship, and Miss Alabama Emma Terry earned 2nd Runner-Up honors with $5,000. Semi-finalist recognitions were awarded to Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan, Miss Mississippi Anna Leah Jolly, Miss Rhode Island Alexia Rodrigues, and Miss Michigan Hannah Palmer.
In the teen division, Miss America’s Teen 2026 Tess Ferm, received the Teens in Action Quality of Life Award and a $3,000 scholarship. Miss Arkansas’ Teen Amelia Lisowe was recognized as 1st Runner-Up with a $2,000 scholarship, and Miss Alaska’s Teen Sara DeVolld as 2nd Runner-Up with $1,000. Semi-finalists included Miss California’s Teen Jasmine Wu, Miss Wisconsin’s Teen Natalie Popp, Miss Florida’s Teen Noelle Schnacky, and Miss Iowa’s Teen Fiona Treiber.
These awards, among the most prestigious honors in the Miss America program, spotlight the extraordinary young women whose service is transforming communities and inspiring future generations.
Finalists were evaluated by a distinguished panel of leaders in philanthropy, community service, and civic engagement: Mrs. Lora Drasner, Ms. Danielle Garno, Mr. Steven Knobel, Ms. Missy Pool, and Ms. Audrey Brown. Their collective expertise ensured a thoughtful and rigorous review process.
Through these scholarships and recognitions, the Miss America Opportunity reaffirms its commitment to empowering women to lead with purpose, champion meaningful causes, and amplify the voices of the next generation of changemakers.
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About Miss America
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.