After much anticipation, the beautiful Grace Stanke, a 20-year-old nuclear engineering student from Wisconsin University has been crowned Miss America 2023. This is notable as it marks the third time in history that Wisconsin has produced a winner of this esteemed title!
Stanke was crowned by former Miss America Emma Broyles, the first Korean-American woman to win the Miss America title in the pageant’s 100-year history
The first runner-up in the pageant was Miss New York “Taryn Delanie Smith”, followed by the second runner-up Miss Texas “Averie Bishop”, the third runner-up Miss West Virginia “Elizabeth Lynch” and the fourth runner-up Miss Georgia “Kelsey Hollis”.
Grace Stank selection criteria
Stanke impressed the judges with her answers during the final round of the competition, and she gave a stunning violin performance during the talent portion of the competition.
Her career ambition, according to the Miss America website, is to produce efficient, clean, carbon-neutral energy for America through nuclear power at a primary design site. With her new year-long national tour, she can now reach more people and share her story with the world.
The newly crowned Miss America was awarded a $50,000 scholarship. She also received $2,500 after winning the Miss America Talent Scholarship with her classical violin performance.
Grace Stank is among the 51 contestants
Stanke won the title out of 51 contestants representing 50 states and the District of Columbia in the competition held at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.
The top 11 finalists – 10 women chosen by the judges, and one selected by the American vote – included Miss Nevada Heather Renner, Miss Hawaii Lauren Teruia, Miss Oregon Sophia Takla, Miss Ohio “Elizabeth Ness”, Miss Indiana “Elizabeth Hallal”, Miss Illinois “Monica Mia Jones”, chosen by America’s voters as the eleventh contestant.
Five women, including Miss West Virginia Elizabeth Winch and Miss Georgia Kelsey Hollis, advanced to the final round, where they were asked questions about their passions.
During the segment, Stanke said she is excited about the opportunities to discuss meaningful issues like Miss America and the representation of empowered women.
Miss Texas R’Bonney Gabriel makes history as the first Filipina-American to win the title of Miss USA.
