Cassie Donegan Crowned Miss America in Orlando

Lead: Cassie Donegan of New York was crowned Miss America at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center on Sunday, succeeding Abbie Stockard in front of a live audience and millions online.

Nut Graf: The 98th Miss America title marks Donegan’s ascent as the new national ambassador, earning a $50,000 scholarship and a year-long platform to advocate for educational equity and mental health awareness.

Top Five Finalists

Cassie Donegan (New York) - Winner
Sophia Richards (North Dakota) - 1st Runner-Up
Carley Jaymes Vogel (Tennessee) - 2nd Runner-Up
Casana Fink (Florida) - 3rd Runner-Up
Stephanie Finoti (Ohio) - 4th Runner-Up

Competition Highlights

Talent Showcase: Donegan performed an original jazz vocal piece, earning praise for her vocal control and stage presence.
Evening Gown: She dazzled in a custom emerald gown symbolizing growth and renewal.
On-Stage Question: Addressed the role of digital literacy in closing educational gaps, advocating for community tech-access programs.

Scholarship and Advocacy

$50,000 Scholarship: Awarded to further her graduate studies in educational psychology.
Platform Focus: “Bridging the Digital Divide,” aiming to secure funding for underprivileged school districts.
Community Service: Pledged nationwide workshops on mental health resources for teens.

Next Steps

Official Tour: Begins in October with stops in Los Angeles, Chicago, and New Orleans.
Charity Gala: Hosts a benefit event on October 15 to raise funds for her tech-access initiative.

Cassie Donegan will officially assume duties immediately, representing the Miss America Organization at national forums and charitable events throughout her reign.