Enhance Life with Music Podcast
Host: Mindy Peterson, NCTM
June 30, 2026
What helps shape a young person into a national leader? For Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan, music has been a powerful part of the answer. In this episode, Cassie shares how music helped her find her voice, build confidence, and prepare for a life of leadership and service. She also discusses why she’s using her national platform to champion music and arts education, and why she believes every child deserves the opportunity to experience its life-changing benefits.
Guest
My guest today is Cassie Donegan, Miss America 2026. When the newly crowned Miss America chooses to use her national platform to champion music and arts education, it’s worth paying attention. Her advocacy is rooted in personal experience and a deep belief in the power of music to shape lives, build confidence, and create opportunities. Today we’re talking about her journey, what’s informed and shaped her voice, and why she believes music education can help equip the next generation of leaders.
We discuss:
- How music shaped Cassie Donegan’s journey to becoming Miss America 2026, helping her develop confidence, communication skills, and leadership.
- Why Cassie chose music and arts education as her national advocacy platform and the personal experiences that inspired her mission.
- The lasting impact of music education on creativity, resilience, and preparing young people for success beyond the classroom.
- How music opened doors to opportunities and helped shape Cassie’s personal and professional path.
- One of the common misconceptions about pageant contestants – and how Cassie’s experience reflects a much broader story of leadership, intellect, and purpose than the stereotype suggests.
- Why sustained investment in music and arts education benefits students, schools, communities, and the future workforce.
- The important role of the arts in STEAM education and how creativity strengthens learning across disciplines.
- Cassie’s STEAM Masterclass and other resources available for students, educators, parents, and advocates.
- Practical ways listeners can support and advocate for music and arts education in their own schools and communities.
- Cassie’s vision for ensuring every child has access to the life-changing benefits of music education.
- Inspiring reflections on the power of music to help people discover their voice, realize their potential, and become leaders.
Listen to the full podcast HERE: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode238