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Miss Alabama 2021: Meet 39 women competing for this year’s crown – AL.com

Tiara Pennington, the current Miss Alabama, is nearing the end of her reign. Pennington won the title in 2019 and kept her crown for an extra year, as the state pageant was canceled in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Miss Alabama competition is back, however, and a new winner will be crowned on June 12 at the Alabama Theatre in Birmingham. Thirty nine women are hoping to become the new Miss Alabama, ranging from Miss Appalachian Valley to Miss Wallace State. Here’s a look at this year’s contestants.

Madison Neal, Miss Appalachian Valley

Madison Neal is competing as Miss Appalachian Valley in the 2021 Miss Alabama competition.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS APPALACHIAN VALLEY, MADISON NEAL

Age: 25.

School: Troy University graduate.

Major: Broadcast journalism.

Hometown: Cleveland.

Talent: Vocal, “Maybe This Time.”

Social impact initiative: Silencing the Stigma: Addiction Awareness.

List three adjectives that describe you: Determined, compassionate, unconventional.

What defines you? My life has been defined by hard work and determination to overcome obstacles and succeed no matter what circumstances life has thrown my way.

Collins McMurray, Miss Auburn University

Collins McMurray is competing as Miss Auburn University in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS AUBURN UNIVERSITY, COLLINS MCMURRAY

Age: 20.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Chemical engineering.

Hometown: Birmingham.

Talent: Vocal, “Bennie and the Jets.”

Social impact initiative: Arts in Education.

List three adjectives that describe you: Creative, fun-loving, unique.

What defines you? I believe that my faith is the most defining part of who I am. Being a Christian and following the Lord is most important to me!

Raven Young, Miss Auburn-Opelika Area

Raven Young is competing as Miss Auburn-Opelika Area in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS AUBURN-OPELIKA AREA, RAVEN YOUNG

Age: 22.

School: University of Mobile.

Major: Elementary education/worship leadership.

Hometown: Mobile.

Talent: Vocal, “Feelin’ Good.”

Social impact initiative: The S.T.A.R. Program – Supplying Teachers with Adequate Resources.

List three adjectives that describe you: Determined, optimistic, passionate.

What defines you? I really believe that how I have overcome the hardships in my life define me, and they continue to remind me that anything is possible when you are determined to be bigger than your setbacks.

Lindsay Fincher, Miss Birmingham

Lindsay Fincher is competing as Miss Birmingham in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS BIRMINGHAM, LINDSAY FINCHER

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Dance and political science.

Hometown: Wedowee.

Talent: Jazz dance, “Bossa Nova Baby.”

Social impact initiative: CATALYST: Arts for All.

List three adjectives that describe you: Grateful, spunky, driven.

What defines you? The best way to understand me is to listen to the opening line of Motley Crue’s “Home Sweet Home” – “You know I’m a dreamer, but my heart’s of gold.” I am defined by my enthusiasm and passion for creating positive change in the world around me, and I truly believe that no goal is out of reach.

Reagan Handley, Miss Cahaba Valley

Reagan Handley is competing as Miss Cahaba Valley in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS CAHABA VALLEY, REAGAN HANDLEY

Age: 21.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Materials engineering.

Hometown: Gardendale.

Talent: Acro jazz dance, “You Can’t Stop the Beat.”

Social impact initiative: Growing Healthy Hearts.

List three adjectives that describe you: Adventurous, inquisitive, nurturing.

What defines you? Patience and attitude define me. I am a work in progress growing, striving and learning along the way. I have the choice every day to challenge myself to be the best version of myself. Leaving my unique legacy of not striving for perfection but grave to help others along life’s journey.

Emma Wright, Miss Center Point

Emma Wright is competing as Miss Center Point in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS CENTER POINT, EMMA WRIGHT

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Pre-med/obstetrics and gynecology.

Hometown: Hayden.

Talent: Vocal, “She Used to Be Mine.”

Social impact initiative: Did You Know? – Advocating Comprehensive Sexual Health Education.

List three adjectives that describe you: Diligent, loyal, devoted.

What defines you? My relationship with Jesus Christ truly defines my life. God is the ultimate servant and example for us to follow. As a Christian I try to walk as Christ did serving others and spreading love. I know in my heart that without God I am nothing, but through him I can do all things.

Annie Ozment, Miss Childersburg Area

Annie Ozment is competing as Miss Childersburg Area in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS CHILDERSBURG AREA, ANNIE OZMENT

Age: 22.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Clinical doctorate of occupational therapy.

Hometown: Childersburg.

Talent: Vocal, “Tomorrow.”

Social impact initiative: Our Daily Bread – Ending Childhood Food Insecurity.

List three adjectives that describe you: God-fearing, relentless, kind-hearted.

What defines you? I’m a risk taker. I’ve never let the fear of being told no keep me from chasing my dreams. I have always set high goals for myself and although things have not always ended the way I hoped, I relentlessly chase after my next goal. I know there’s a greater plan and I believe things will always turn out the way God has planned for me, so I continue to follow my heart, take risks, and accomplish the goals I set for myself.

Taylor Blatchford, Miss Cotton State

Taylor Blatchford is competing as Miss Cotton State in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS COTTON STATE, TAYLOR BLATCHFORD

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Public relations and communication studies.

Hometown: Boulder City, Nevada.

Talent: Violin, “Hungarian Dance #5.”

Social impact initiative: Text 2 Regret: Anti-Sexting and Internet Safety Education.

List three adjectives that describe you: Genuine, gregarious, witty.

What defines you? “I bring a high level of energy to everything I do. This motivates me and encourages others. Utilizing this energy defines the out- look I choose every day.”

Caroline Whatley, Miss Covered Bridge

Caroline Whatley is competing as Miss Covered Bridge in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS COVERED BRIDGE, CAROLINE WHATLEY

Age: 21.

School: University of South Alabama.

Major: Biomedical sciences.

Hometown: Theodore.

Talent: Vocal, “You Are My Sunshine.”

Social impact initiative: Passage USA.

List three adjectives that describe you: Engaging, driven, genuine.

What defines you? My character defines who I am. I have set high standards for myself to treat others with kindness and respect. I believe true beauty shines from the inside out. “People will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

Makalyn Heaslett, Miss Gardendale Magnolia Festival

Makalyn Heaslett is competing as Miss Gardendale Magnolia Festival in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS GARDENDALE MAGNOLIA FESTIVAL, MAKALYN HEASLETT

Age: 22.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Public relations.

Hometown: Muscle Shoals.

Talent: Tap dance, “Little Less Conversation.”

Social impact initiative: Be Bold, Brave & Brilliant – Girls, Inc.

List three adjectives that describe you: Altruistic, tenacious, zealous.

What defines you? My faith and my heart defines me.

Ashlyn Winkler, Miss Hamilton

Ashlyn Winkler is competing as Miss Hamilton in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS HAMILTON, ASHLYN WINKLER

Age: 22.

School: Faulkner University graduate school.

Major: Speech language pathology.

Hometown: Dora.

Talent: Piano: “Pour le Piano.”

Social impact initiative: Shining A Light on Autism Acceptance.

List three adjectives that describe you: Determined, persistent, motivated.

What defines you? I am a very family-oriented person. My family is the foundation of everything I am. They encourage me, inspire me and have built me into the person I am today.

Bethany Knight, Miss Heart of Dixie

Bethany Knight is competing as Miss Heart of Dixie in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS HEART OF DIXIE, BETHANY KNIGHT

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Vocal/choral music education.

Hometown: Hamilton.

Talent: Vocal, “Think of Me.”

Social impact initiative: Create The Art: Be The Art.

List three adjectives that describe you: Sunny, nerdy, passionate.

What defines you? My passions: faith and music. These two things are what my entire life revolves around.

Kate Webb, Miss Historic Springville

Kate Webb is competing as Miss Historic Springville in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS HISTORIC SPRINGVILLE, KATE WEBB

Age: 21.

School: Samford University.

Major: Sociology.

Hometown: Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Talent: Vocal, “My Man.”

Social impact initiative: Arts for Alzheimer’s.

List three adjectives that describe you: Passionate, spirited, determined.

What defines you? My trust and faith in God’s divine plan for my life is what shapes who I am and leads me to a life of service. I believe I am called to serve all, including those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and the caregivers it impacts.

Caitlyn McTier, Miss Hoover

Caitlyn McTier is competing as Miss Hoover in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS HOOVER, CAITLYN MCTIER

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: News media.

Hometown: Sylacauga.

Talent: Vocal, “Once Upon a Time.”

Social impact initiative: Project FIERCE: Food Insecurity, Education, Recharging Civic Engagement.

List three adjectives that describe you: Brave, authentic, persistent.

What defines you? Everyday I wake up motivated to work towards the person that I hope to be someday. Knowing the dedication it takes to become successful and impactful within my community, I use the vision that I have for my future as a way to define myself today. In no way will I be perfect in this pursuit, but I am striving everyday to become one step closer to the woman I hope to be.

MaKenzie Ward, Miss Iron City

MaKenzie Ward is competing as Miss Iron City in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS IRON CITY, MAKENZIE WARD

Age: 19.

School: Samford University.

Major: Pharmacy.

Hometown: Trussville.

Talent: Tap dance, “Can’t Buy Me Love.”

Social impact initiative: Gold Rush: Funding Pediatric Cancer Research.

List three adjectives that describe you: Determined, energetic, outgoing.

What defines you? The Word of God defines me. I am who he says I am: I am free. I am forgiven. I am his masterpiece. I am called to make a difference in the lives of others.

Lauren Bradford, Miss Jefferson County

Lauren Bradford is competing as Miss Jefferson County in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS JEFFERSON COUNTY, LAUREN BRADFORD

Age: 21.

School: Vanderbilt University graduate school.

Major: Master of science, finance.

Hometown: Gulf Shores.

Talent: Violin, “My Heart Will Go On.”

Social impact initiative: The Digital Diet Plan.

List three adjectives that describe you: Anchored, motivated, positive.

What defines you? I am defined only as a daughter of one true king. He has grown within me a tenacity and joyfulness for this life I get to live, and he has continually cultivated a desire within me to live a life of impact. I want my life to be defined by an overwhelming sense of gratitude for every moment.

Camden Swatts, Miss JSU

Camden Swatts is competing as Miss JSU in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY, CAMDEN SWATTS

Age: 22.

School: Jacksonville State University.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Beauregard.

Talent: Jazz dance, “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.”

Social impact initiative: American Cancer Society.

List three adjectives that describe you: Kind, optimistic, ambitious.

What defines you? Love and service define me. I believe if my days are filled with showing love and serving others in big or small ways, it will bring meaning to my life. I am also defined by the resilience, faithfulness and enthusiasm that I carry with me throughout life’s adventures.

Charity Bowden, Miss Leeds Area

Charity Bowden is competing as Miss Leeds Area in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS LEEDS AREA, CHARITY BOWDEN

Age: 22.

School: University of Montevallo.

Major: Marketing and finance.

Hometown: Hope Hull.

Talent: Vocal, “I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart.”

Social impact initiative: Gifts and Grace.

List three adjectives that describe you: Compassionate, authentic, creative.

What defines you? I think I am defined as someone what wants to make a difference. I hope that others can see my heart through my music and actions.

Leah Humble, Miss Magic City

Leah Humble is competing as Miss Magic City in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS MAGIC CITY, LEAH HUMBLE

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Political science and philosophy.

Hometown: Sevierville, Tennessee.

Talent: Tap dance, “Great Balls of Fire.”

Social impact initiative: Souls4Souls.

List three adjectives that describe you: Proactive, innovative, tenacious.

What defines you? For me, “humble” is more than a last name. It’s a choice I make daily to recognize the needs of others and value them above myself in any way I can. Humility is not an easy choice to make, but it is the most fulfilling. It defines every act of service that I make and reminds me that I should care for others, not because of my position, but because of each person’s inherent value.

Presley Collins, Miss Marshall County

Presley Collins is competing as Miss Marshall County in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS MARSHALL COUNTY, PRESLEY COLLINS

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Business and accounting.

Hometown: Arab.

Talent: Vocal, “Someone Like You.”

Social impact initiative: Be the Light – Encouraging Others to Spend More Time With the Elderly.

List three adjectives that describe you: Courageous, compassionate, sensible.

What defines you? What defines me most as a person is my faith! My greatest comfort is that I have a God who loves me and walks with me through every stage of life! He offers me grace and strength when I need it most and will never leave my side.

Bre Vigor, Miss Mobile Bay

Bre Vigor is competing as Miss Mobile Bay in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS MOBILE BAY, BREIGHANNA VIGOR

Age: 19.

School: University of Mobile.

Major: Criminal justice.

Hometown: Semmes.

Talent: Lyrical Dance: “Something in the Water.”

Social impact initiative: Rise Up Against Human Trafficking and Online Predators.

List three adjectives that describe you: Powerful, adaptive, charismatic.

What defines you? It is my belief that what defines us are the life experience we are dealt. The individuals that are placed into our paths mold, mentor and guide us. This is how we are shaped into who we are. Those who left a footprint in my life will always be stamped in my heart and mind that will carry me for a lifetime.

Jessica Patterson, Miss North Jefferson Area

Jessica Patterson is competing as Miss North Jefferson Area in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS NORTH JEFFERSON AREA, JESSICA PATTERSON

Age: 23.

School: University of Alabama graduate school.

Major: Master of Arts in Journalism.

Hometown: Cullman.

Talent: Vocal, “All I Ask.”

Social impact initiative: Center Stage – Advocating for Arts in Education.

List three adjectives that describe you: Authentic, diligent, grateful.

What defines you? My passion to help others reach their goals is what defines me. I am continuously looking for ways to invest energy and affection into others, as the communities I serve do for me.

Emee Baldwin, Miss River City

Emee Baldwin is competing as Miss River City in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS RIVER CITY, EMEE BALDWIN

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama at Huntsville.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Houston.

Talent: Gymnastics Floor Routine: “A Thousand Revelations.”

Social impact initiative: Poppy’s Purpose – Advocating for Patient Rights.

List three adjectives that describe you: Driven, adventurous, compassionate.

What defines you? My faith truly defines me. Because of it, I live with passion and purpose knowing that each day my life has meaning, and I can make a difference in the lives of others.

Madison Ward, Miss Samford University

Madison Ward is competing as Miss Samford University in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS SAMFORD UNIVERSITY, MADISON WARD

Age: 21.

School: Samford University.

Major: Communication studies.

Hometown: Trussville.

Talent: Vocal, “Orange Colored Sky.”

Social impact initiative: S.H.I.N.E. – Serving Him in Neighborhoods Everywhere.

List three adjectives that describe you: Adventurous, creative, trustworthy.

What defines you? The Word of God defines me. It says that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. It says that the love of God is in my heart and thatI am called to reach out and help others. It says that in him, I can do all things.

Shiann Harper, Miss Shelby County

Shiann Harper is competing as Miss Shelby County in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS SHELBY COUNTY, SHIANN HARPER

Age: 24.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Bachelor of science in biology with a minor in chemistry.

Hometown: Mount Olive.

Talent: Modern clogging, “Devil Went Down to Georgia.”

Social impact initiative: SMILE – Instilling Confidence in Children through Preventative Dental Care.

List three adjectives that describe you: Resilient, trendsetter, quirky.

What defines you? My values, faith, integrity, sense of humor and work ethic are intrinsic to who I am. However, my shortcomings are a significant driving force behind what motivates me. I have grown stronger and learned so much as a result of setbacks or failures experienced along my journey.

McKenzie Gay, Miss Southern Union

McKenzie Gay is competing as Miss Southern Union in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS SOUTHERN UNION, MCKENZIE GAY

Age: 19.

School: Southern Union State Community College

Major: Agricultural communications.

Hometown: Woodland.

Talent: Lyrical dance, “What a Wonderful World.”

Social impact initiative: “Fearfully and Wonderfully Made” – Autism Spectrum Disorder.

List three adjectives that describe you: Generous, determined, loving.

What defines you? I Corinthians 16:14 says, “Let all that you do be done in love.” This Bible verse exemplifies the love I try to exude each and every day. I strive to love others as he loves me, and hope people see the light of God shining inside of me!

Ibby Dickson, Miss Sylacauga

Ibby Dickson is competing as Miss Sylacauga in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS SYLACAUGA, IBBY DICKSON

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: News media.

Hometown: Sylacauga.

Talent: Vocal, “Heart of Stone.”

Social impact initiative: Mentoring Matters.

List three adjectives that describe you: Vibrant, well-grounded, resilient.

What defines you? I think what defines a person is the ability to overcome negative occurrences and rise above them. What defines me is my will to remain positive when things aren’t looking up. My faith and deep appreciation for the simple wonders of life ultimately gives me the ability to do so throughout my day-to-day routine.

Chandler Mordecai, Miss Tennessee Valley

Chandler Mordecai is competing as Miss Tennessee Valley in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS TENNESSEE VALLEY, CHANDLER MORDECAI

Age: 24.

School: University of Florida graduate fellow.

Major: Doctorate of philosophy.

Hometown: Winfield.

Talent: Clogging, “Soul Man.”

Social impact initiative: Victory Over Domestic Violence.

List three adjectives that describe you: Vivacious, resilient, driven.

What defines you? Michelle Obama wrote, “As if growing up is finite. As if at some point you become something and that’s the end.” I define myself as someone who is constantly learning and evolving. I ground myself in values, such as faith, grit and grace, but I use my life experiences to grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally and culturally each day.

Sammy Rizzuto, Miss Tri County

Sammy Rizzuto is competing as Miss Tri County in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS TRI COUNTY, SAMMY RIZZUTO

Age: 24.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Master’s in engineering.

Hometown: Vestavia Hills.

Talent: Vocal, “One Voice.”

Social impact initiative: Traffic Report: The Fight to End Human Trafficking.

List three adjectives that describe you: Vibrant, adventurous, passionate.

What defines you? My faith, my family and my focus are what defines who I am today. My faith in my Lord Jesus Christ has shaped the way I try to live my life and treat others. My family is my greatest support system and I know I would not be the woman I am today without their constant encouragement. Finally, my focus, to help those who are being held captive, has influenced how I spend my time.

Eden Hipps, Miss Troy University

Eden Hipps is competing as Miss Troy University in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS TROY UNIVERSITY, EDEN HIPPS

Age: 21.

School: Troy University.

Major: Accounting.

Hometown: Troy.

Talent: Clogging, “Think.”

Social impact initiative: The Significance of the Little Red Heart – Organ Donation.

List three adjectives that describe you: Passionate, personable, persistent.

What defines you? The one thing that defines me the best would be my drive. I am extremely dedicated and committed to success in whatever opportunity may come my way. This sense of drive has enabled me to accomplish goal after goal while still looking ahead to what may come next.

Harley Chapin, Miss Trussville

Harley Chapin is competing as Miss Trussville in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS TRUSSVILLE, HARLEY CHAPIN

Age: 24.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham graduate.

Major: Art studio and communications.

Hometown: Columbiana.

Talent: Clogging, “Disco Fever.”

Social impact initiative: Recycle Life: Raising Awareness for Organ Donation.

List three adjectives that describe you: Assertive, original, inventive.

What defines you? What you see, is what you get. And pizza. And Dr. Pepper.

Lillie-Ann Dawson, Miss Tuscaloosa

Lillie-Ann Dawson is competing as Miss Tuscaloosa in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS TUSCALOOSA, LILLIE-ANN DAWSON

Age: 22.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham graduate.

Major: Pre-med/neuroscience.

Hometown: Birmingham.

Talent: Jazz dance, “I’m a Boss.”

Social impact initiative: Teen Pact Leadership Schools.

List three adjectives that describe you: Funny, smart, determined.

What defines you? The self confidence I have developed through the Miss America Organization defines how I live my life everyday. I would have never had the boldness to pursue my dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon without this organization giving me the confidence to walk into an operating room.

Tiffany Millan, Miss UAB

Tiffany Millan is competing as Miss UAB in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS UAB, TIFFANY MILLAN

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Business marketing.

Hometown: Alabaster.

Talent: Saxophone, “September.”

Social impact initiative: The Importance of Voting.

List three adjectives that describe you: Kind, ambitious, committed.

What defines you? My passions define me. I cannot be defined by one specific thing because I have multiple interests and hobbies. I love not being able to be defined by one word because it allows me to be more expressive about what does define me.

Isabella Powell, Miss University of Alabama

Isabella Powell is competing as Miss University of Alabama in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA, ISABELLA POWELL

Age: 24.

School: University of Alabama graduate.

Major: Vocal performance.

Hometown: Calera.

Talent: Vocal, “The Prayer.”

Social impact initiative: Gimme-a-Break: Providing Sensory Rooms for Children with Special Needs.

List three adjectives that describe you: Determined, dedicated, encouraging.

What defines you? The work I have done on my social impact initiative, Gimme-a-Break: Providing Sensory Rooms for Children with Special Needs. My heart lies with those who have not been given a voice because they are misunderstood. My brother, David, is one of those people. We continue to fight for him and others like him through the implementation of sensory rooms throughout the state of Alabama. To date, we have installed 20 sensory rooms around the state, and we will not stop here.

Abigail Breland, Miss University of Mobile

Abigail Breland is competing as Miss University of Mobile in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS UNIVERSITY OF MOBILE, ABIGAIL BRELAND

Age: 21.

School: University of Mobile.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Little Rock, Arkansas.

Talent: Vocal, “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

Social impact initiative: Tru.Identity.

List three adjectives that describe you: Spunky, brave, dependable.

What defines you? I am defined by the people that love me, the pressures that shape me and the purpose that drives me.

Caitlin McCrary, Miss UNA

Caitlin McCrary is competing as Miss UNA in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS UNIVERSITY OF NORTH ALABAMA, CAITLIN MCCRARY

Age: 22.

School: University of North Alabama.

Major: Collaborative education.

Hometown: Double Springs.

Talent: Original monologue, “Seamless.”

Social impact initiative: Extraordinary Exceptionalities.

List three adjectives that describe you: A planner, passionate, outgoing.

What defines you? The biggest thing that defines me are my values. Growing up, my parents have always been so compassionate and so driven to accomplish whatever they set their minds to. This example they have set for me has always played a large role in my life.

Emily Edmonds, Miss University of West Alabama

Emily Edmonds is competing as Miss University of West Alabama in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS UNIVERSITY OF WEST ALABAMA, EMILY EDMONDS

Age: 20.

School: University of West Alabama.

Major: Interdisciplinary studies.

Hometown: Citronelle.

Talent: Baton, “A Modern Star Wars.”

Social impact initiative: A Growth on the Home of Grace.

List three adjectives that describe you: Outgoing, friendly, optimistic.

What defines you? I absorb the world around me. It teaches me something new each day. I am defined as being ever-changing. My family has played a huge role in shaping me into a driven and loving person.

Emma Owen, Miss Walker County

Emma Owen is competing as Miss Walker County in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS WALKER COUNTY, EMMA OWEN

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Communication studies.

Hometown: Odenville.

Talent: Dance, “Don’t Stop Me Now.”

Social impact initiative: Siren Snuggles by Emma Owen.

List three adjectives that describe you: Compassionate, ambitious, outgoing.

What defines you? My passion for serving others defines me. Throughout my time with the Miss Alabama and outstanding teen organizations, service has become a significant part of my identity. I feel like my most authentic self when I am delivering Siren Snuggles bags, holding fundraisers or advocating for issues close to my heart.

Lacey Johnson, Miss Wallace State

Lacey Johnson is competing as Miss Wallace State in the 2021 Miss Alabama pageant.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama competition)

MISS WALLACE STATE, LACEY JOHNSON

Age: 20.

School: Wallace State Community College.

Major: Dance performance.

Hometown: Pinson.

Talent: Jazz Dance: “A Little Party Never Killed Nobody.”

Social impact initiative: Royal Family for the Children.

List three adjectives that describe you: Personable, energetic, passionate.

What defines you? I am defined by how I treat others. I strive to show love in the same way that Jesus did to everyone who crosses my path.