[SEVIERVILLE, TN] October 24, 2025 — Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan brought her voice and passion to Brookdale Sevierville today, joining the Alzheimer’s Association of Tennessee, an organization close to her heart.
With both of her great-grandfathers having passed from Alzheimer’s and dementia, Donegan has witnessed firsthand the challenges these diseases bring. She has also seen music’s power to transcend even the hardest battles.
“Music connects us beyond age, memory, and language,” Cassie said. “And even when disease or age tries to steal so much, it can never steal the joy that music brings.”
During her visit, Donegan performed for residents and community members, creating moments of joy, connection, and shared experience. Her performance showcased how the arts—particularly music—can foster meaningful connections, even in the face of life-altering challenges.
Through her work as Miss America, Donegan continues to show how music and service can inspire, heal, and uplift communities nationwide.
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About Miss America
Miss America is the nation’s premier empowerment platform for young women, with service to community at the core of its impact. Participants pursue personal and professional growth while inspiring others as positive role models. With its mission of Empowering Women to Lead, Miss America is also the largest provider of tuition scholarships for women in the United States, distributed through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization.