NEW YORK CITY, NY] November 27, 2025 — This Thanksgiving, Miss America 2026, Cassie Donegan, traded her crown for a hairnet, joining Food Bank For New York City to serve hundreds of New Yorkers in need.
Working alongside dedicated volunteers and community leaders, Cassie experienced firsthand the service at the heart of the Miss America Organization. From packing meals to lending a helping hand wherever it was needed, Cassie embodies the spirit of giving and community that has defined Miss America for over a century.
Our delegates at the local, state, and national levels—from Alaska to Maine—put their leadership into action every day, making meaningful contributions, lifting others up, and serving with dedication and compassion. Their commitment is a powerful reminder that service and leadership go hand in hand.
As we reflect on this season of gratitude, we are reminded of the importance of giving, serving, and lifting one another up, not just during the holidays, but every day. From all of us at Miss America, Happy Thanksgiving!
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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.