[SPRINGFIELD, IL] March 21, 2026 — Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan traveled to Springfield, Illinois for the Miss Illinois Spring Kickoff this weekend, where she participated in a full weekend of events celebrating talent, leadership, and community.
Cassie’s visit began with a tour of the Illinois State Capitol, giving her a behind-the-scenes look at the state’s government and history. Following the tour, she attended the Rising Stars Brunch alongside Miss Illinois Jewels, where she posed for photos with guests, shared stories of her journey, and performed “Let Me Be Your Star” from the Broadway show SMASH. The brunch also featured a lively Q&A session, during which Cassie engaged with attendees about her experiences and offered insight into her path to the crown.
Cassie also participated in the official Spring Kickoff Meeting, where she spoke candidly to Miss Illinois delegates about her upbringing and the realities of life behind the Miss America crown. She emphasized the importance of hard work, resilience, and using the platform to make a positive impact. Attendees then had another opportunity to meet Cassie, take photos, and share in the excitement of her visit.
The weekend concluded at the Miss Illinois Night of Stars Gala, where Cassie performed “Maybe This Time” from Cabaret and spent the evening alongside Miss Illinois, Miss Illinois’ Teen, and Forever Miss America 1969 Judi Ford. The gala celebrated the dedication and accomplishments of the Miss Illinois community while also highlighting the enduring legacy of the Miss America program.
Miss America’s visit to Springfield not only entertained and inspired attendees but also reinforced her commitment to empowering young women across all levels of the Miss America Organization.
###
About Miss America
Miss America’s mission is Empowering Women to Lead with Purpose as the nation’s premier empowerment platform for young women. Founded in 1921, the iconic Miss America program is also America’s largest provider of tuition-only scholarship awards for women, distributing all scholarships through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. a tax-exempt nonprofit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.