Cassie Donegan Crowned Miss America 2026: A New Chapter for New York
In a thrilling event held in Orlando, Florida, Cassie Donegan has been crowned Miss America 2026. The 27-year-old Miss New York rose to the top after competing against contestants from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico over two rigorous nights of competition. This victory marks her as the eighth woman from New York to hold this prestigious title in over a century.
Donegan’s win is accompanied by an impressive scholarship award of $70,000, which she plans to use to further her education. “Miss America has always been a powerful springboard for ambitious women to turn their dreams into reality,” she stated after her victory, emphasizing her appreciation for the opportunities provided by the organization.
With a commitment to education already in place, Cassie aims to support her undergraduate studies and work toward a master’s degree. Her current role as Chief Operating Officer at Southern Sitter LLC enhances her experience, showcasing her dedication to both her career and her community.
The Miss America organization highlighted Donegan’s professional background in the performing arts, noting her successful career across the nation. She has shared stages with some of the most recognized talents in the industry, bringing a wealth of experience to her new role.
In a competitive final round, Donegan stood out among four other finalists: Miss Texas Sadie Schiermeyer, Miss Florida Paris Richardson, Miss Georgia Audrey Kittila, and Miss Alabama Emma Terry. Each contestant displayed exceptional poise and talent, making the decision a challenging one for the judges.
After being crowned Miss New York in July, Donegan expressed her aspiration for the national title, stating, “I will never be able to find the perfect words to express what this journey has meant to me, but I’ll start with the simplest: thank you.” Her eagerness to represent New York reflects her commitment to the state and its values.
“I could not be more honored to serve New York in this way. This state—diverse, driven, resilient—is home,” Donegan shared. Her pride in representing New York was palpable before the main event, and she expressed gratitude for the support she received from her state board.
Now officially the national brand ambassador for the Miss America organization, Donegan has the opportunity to serve as a role model for young women across the country. The Miss America competition, which originated from a beauty contest in Atlantic City in 1921—just a year after women gained the right to vote—has evolved into an important platform providing scholarships and support for young women.
The organization is one of the nation’s most prominent sources of scholarship assistance, awarding more than $5 million each year, along with additional funds at local and state levels. Many past participants credit their experiences with Miss America as life-changing, helping them unlock personal and professional doors that might have otherwise remained closed.
As she steps into this significant role, Donegan embraces the chance to use her platform for positive change, empowering women and advocating for educational opportunities. Her journey is just beginning, and many look forward to seeing how she will shape her tenure as Miss America 2026.
Cassie Donegan’s achievement not only highlights her individual talents but also reflects the values of dedication, ambition, and the perseverance of women across the nation. As New York celebrates her win, the future looks bright for both Donegan and the Miss America organization, which continues to inspire and uplift young women everywhere.
