The Crown Jewel: Cassie Donegan Takes Home Miss America 2026 Title

I’m Avery Sinclair, a sharp-tongued observer who’s not easily impressed, but I’ll give credit where credit is due. In a ceremony that was likely a spectacle of pageantry and pomp, Cassie Donegan, representing New York, was crowned Miss America 2026 on September 7 in Orlando, Florida. This marks the eighth time a New Yorker has taken home the coveted title in the competition’s 104-year history.

Cassie Donegan, 27, has been awarded over $70,000 in scholarships from the Miss America program, which she plans to use to fund her undergraduate education and pursue her master’s degree. In a press release following her win, she expressed her gratitude and excitement, stating, “Miss America has always been a powerful springboard for ambitious women to turn their dreams into reality. I am honored to represent an organization that provides scholarships, resources, and a platform for women to lead—and I’m deeply grateful for the chance to bring that mission to life.”

Donegan’s journey to the top wasn’t a sudden one. She was crowned Miss New York in July, succeeding previous titleholder Abby Quammen. At the time, she wrote, “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.” She also expressed her pride in representing New York, a state she described as “diverse, driven, resilient,” and her gratitude for the support of her state board.

As the new Miss America titleholder, Donegan earned her crown over her fellow top five finalists, including Miss Texas Sadie Schiermeyer, Miss Florida Paris Richardson, Miss Georgia Audrey Kittila, and Miss Alabama Emma Terry. With her latest win, she will serve as the official national brand ambassador for the Miss America Opportunity, traveling around the country to promote the brand’s ideals.

The Miss America organization has a long history of providing a platform for women to showcase their talents, intelligence, and compassion. As Donegan begins her reign, she joins a legacy of women who have used the title as a springboard for their careers. Mary Katherine Campbell, for example, was a two-time Miss America winner who went on to have a successful career in entertainment.

As Cassie Donegan embarks on her journey as Miss America 2026, she will undoubtedly face challenges and opportunities that will test her mettle. But for now, she can bask in the glory of her achievement and the recognition that comes with wearing the crown. And that, folks, is the story of how another Miss America was crowned – a story that’s been played out countless times before, but still manages to captivate audiences.

Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! Online
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed