[HAMPTON, VA] January 28, 2026 — Miss America Cassie Donegan spent time in Hampton, Virginia connecting with students through school visits focused on the power of arts education, perseverance, and believing in possibility.
Cassie visited Tabb High School, where she spoke with students about pursuing creative passions and redefining what success can look like. Drawing from her own journey, she shared a candid message about overcoming obstacles and building a life through the arts.
“Many of you have said that people have told you this is not a viable career choice. And I’m sitting in front of you today as somebody who came from a house where our utilities were often shut off. Being able to pay for my rent, living alone in one of the most desired boroughs in New York City, being an actor. So if I can do that, and I can sit here as Miss America doing that, you can literally do anything you decide you want to do,” Cassie shared.
Cassie also returned to her alma mater, Bethel Christian School, where she spoke with students in grades K–12, reconnected with teachers who helped shape her journey, and spent time performing for students. Throughout the day, she signed more than 300 autographs and capped off her visit by singing at the school’s basketball game.
Through her visits, Cassie showed students firsthand how the arts can open doors, inspire confidence, and turn big dreams into reality.
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