By Sarah J. Hillyer, founder and director of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Center for Sport, Peace, and Society
I never imagined I would one day serve as a Miss America judge. I have no ties to the pageant world, the beauty industry, or traditional affiliations with this brand. Yet, as someone committed to women’s empowerment through education, sport, community service, and leadership development, I found this experience deeply aligned with my life’s work.
The Miss America Organization reminded me that empowerment comes in all forms and that creating opportunities for women to pursue education, develop confidence, and make an impact is one of the most powerful investments we can make. What an incredible privilege to be part of one of our nation’s most iconic cultural traditions, one that has redefined itself over the past century to reflect the evolving roles, rights, and aspirations of women.
A Legacy of Women’s Empowerment
The Miss America pageant began in the 1920s as a way to celebrate women’s visibility, femininity, and talent in a public arena where their voices and presence were often overlooked. Over the decades, it has transformed into something far greater: a platform for education, empowerment, and community service. Today, the Miss America Organization is the largest provider of scholarships for women in the United States, dedicated to reducing the higher education debt burden that disproportionately impacts women. It stands as a reminder that beauty is not just external, but measured in courage, character, service, and intellect.
Reflections on Serving as a Miss America 2026 Preliminary Judge
Serving on the judges’ panel was an extraordinary experience. While my fellow judges were accomplished, diverse, and highly respected in their fields, what struck me most was their kindness, humility, and genuine care for each contestant. Collectively, we reflected the Miss America Organization’s new era of commitment, evaluating women not on outward appearance alone, but on their inner strength, vision, and desire to make a positive impact in the world.
Throughout the week, I had the opportunity to observe the contestants, not only in competition but in everyday moments. What I witnessed was an authentic sisterhood. They celebrated each other’s victories with joy and stood by one another during moments of disappointment or hardship. This wasn’t lip service or performance—it was real.
Many of the women represented some of our nation’s most vulnerable populations: young people from foster care, single-parent households, survivors of abuse, and those who have endured illness or the loss of loved ones. Yet they stood on stage with grace, resilience, and determination. They embodied courage, empathy, and gratitude—qualities that gave me renewed hope for the future of our nation’s leadership.
A Message to the Contestants
To each contestant I had the privilege of meeting: you are already winners. Your courage, strength, kindness, and compassion define your worth. Whether you walk away with a crown or not, you are living proof that leadership and beauty exist in many forms.
There is no such thing as failure in the Miss America Organization. Instead, it is a platform—local, state, and national—to affirm that:
- You are never alone.
- You are worthy, important, and powerful.
- You are capable of making a difference in the world.
You are beautiful in every sense of the word, and your life has purpose far beyond what you can imagine. My hope and prayer is that you step into your calling, never give up on yourself, and continue to inspire the young women who look up to you.
High fives to each and every one of you—and heartfelt gratitude to the Miss America Organization for this unforgettable opportunity to serve.