[NEW YORK, NY] September 11, 2025 — Miss America 2026, Cassie Donegan, served as a reader at the annual Calling of the Names Ceremony at Saint Paul’s Chapel in Lower Manhattan, a solemn event honoring those who contributed to the 9/11 Rescue and Recovery Effort.
Held each year on the afternoon of September 11th, the ceremony brings together community members to remember those who gave their time and effort following the September 11, 2001 attacks and who have since passed away, many due to 9/11-related illnesses. Cassie was among the readers who honored responders by reading their names, paying tribute to their selfless service and sacrifice.
Cassie’s father is a Navy firefighter veteran, making her participation in the ceremony especially meaningful. She also visited the 9/11 Memorial Pools, honoring the 2,983 lives lost in the 2001 and 1993 terrorist attacks.
As Miss America, Cassie continues to use her platform to spotlight the importance of service, community, and remembrance, demonstrating respect and gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The Calling of the Names Ceremony remains a vital annual tradition, offering an opportunity for reflection, remembrance, and unity as the nation honors the heroes of September 11th.
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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.