[NEW YORK, NY] October 10, 2025 — Cassie Donegan, Miss America 2026, made a special backstage visit during a preview performance of Broadway’s The Queen of Versailles at the St. James Theatre in New York City, where she reunited with star Kristin Chenoweth, whom she first met 12 years ago while serving as Miss Virginia’s Teen. Their reunion celebrated the power of performance, legacy, and women uplifting women.
As Miss America, Cassie’s service initiative focuses on arts education, making the moment especially meaningful. Through her platform, she champions access to the arts at the earliest age as a vital tool for creativity, confidence, and connection—encouraging young people to discover their voices through performance and self-expression.
“I’m thankful for strong women like Kristin who champion and pave the way for so many in this industry,” Cassie said. “I’m grateful to get to experience her art.”
Chenoweth, who was crowned Miss Oklahoma City University 1990 and later finished as second runner-up at Miss Oklahoma 1991, is a Tony- and Emmy-winning actress and singer celebrated for her roles in Wicked, Pushing Daisies, The West Wing, and more. She has also released multiple albums and authored the memoir A Little Bit Wicked.
Cassie and Kristin’s special encounter underscores Miss America’s ongoing commitment to supporting the performing arts and celebrating women who lead with talent, purpose, and heart.
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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.