Miss New York Emerges as Miss America 2026

Cassie Donegan has won the Miss America 2026 title, topping a competitive field that included participants from the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as eye-catching contenders from all 50 states.

At 27 years old, Donegan took the crown during a ceremony held in Orlando, Florida, on September 7, marking her as the eighth Miss New York to achieve this prestigious honor, which has been awarded for over a century.

Her win came with an impressive $70,000 scholarship, which she described as particularly meaningful. “Miss America has always been a powerful stepping stone for women eager to realize their dreams,” she stated in her post-victory remarks.

Donegan expressed gratitude for the chance to represent an organization that empowers women through scholarships and resources, emphasizing the importance of making that mission a reality.

She plans to utilize her scholarship funds to support her undergraduate studies and pursue a master’s degree.

Currently, Donegan holds the position of COO at Southern Sitter LLC, a parenting company, and is also a member of the Actors Equity Association.

According to the Miss America organization, she has built a professional stage career across the country, sharing the spotlight with notable talent in the industry.

In the final competition, Donegan surpassed four other finalists, including Miss Texas Sadie Sheermeyer, Miss Florida Paris Richardson, Miss Georgia Audrey Kittila, and Alabama’s Emma Terry.

Since being crowned Miss New York in July, Donegan had her eyes firmly set on the national title. “I can’t quite put into words what this journey means to me, but I’ll start with a simple thank you,” she noted then.

She highlighted her pride in representing New York as she prepared for the major competition, expressing how unbelievable the support from her committee has been, likening it to a dream come true.

Going forward, Donegan will serve as the national brand ambassador for Miss America Opportunities.

The Miss America contest has its roots in the 1921 Atlantic City Beauty Contest, which began just a year after women earned the right to vote.

Participants often describe the organization as transformative, noting its role in providing substantial scholarship opportunities for young women, with more than $5 million awarded annually at various levels.