[HOMEWOOD, AL] April 17, 2026 — The Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. is proud to announce that Miss America’s Teen 2026 Tess Ferm will attend Samford University this fall.
Last month, the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. named Samford University an official higher education partner of the Miss America’s Teen program, announcing that the winner of Miss America’s Teen 2027 will be eligible to receive a $100,000 scholarship to Samford University—further expanding the significant educational opportunities available through the program.
“Samford University represents the very best of what we look for in a partner—academic excellence, strong values, and a deep commitment to student success,” said Robin Fleming, Miss America CEO/Owner and Chairman of the Board of the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. “We are thrilled to see Tess continue her journey at an institution that will both support and challenge her as she grows into the next chapter of her life and leadership.”
Tess was crowned Miss America’s Teen 2026 on September 6, 2025. Since then, her dedication to service through her initiative, From Fear to Freedom: Food Allergy Awareness and Education, has inspired Americans across the country. Through her own experiences with anaphylactic allergies, she is committed to creating safer, more informed communities. Tess is a national spokesperson for FAACT and recently delivered a keynote address at the National Conference on Women’s Health in Washington.
“As soon as I stepped on Samford’s campus, I felt like it was my home away from home. I was drawn to the people, the sense of community, and the opportunity to grow both academically and spiritually,” Tess said. “I’m so excited to begin this next chapter in a place that truly reflects who I am and who I hope to become. Go bulldogs!”
Tess plans to study marketing and communications with a minor in psychology at Samford this fall.
Samford University is a nationally recognized Christian university located in Homewood, Alabama. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and faith-centered education, Samford is intentionally small enough to foster meaningful connections while offering robust academic and professional opportunities. The Wall Street Journal recently ranked Samford #3 in the nation for career preparation and #7 in the nation for student learning opportunities. The university also boasts one of the highest Graduation Success Rates in the country among NCAA Division I institutions, with an impressive 97% rate.
Together, Samford University and the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc. are advancing Miss America’s longstanding mission of empowering young women to lead with purpose—creating new pathways for Miss America’s Teen winners to pursue higher education and develop the leadership skills that will shape communities across the country.
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