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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.