Teens, aged 13 through 17, are eligible to compete in this program. Contestants must first win their state teen competition in order to advance to the national Miss America's Outstanding Teen finals. The winner of this national title will travel the country promoting the organization's mission and encouraging teens to project a positive image for themselves and others. The contestants in the national finals will compete for over $150,000 in college scholarship assistance, with the winner receiving $30,000 of that amount.
"For many years, the Miss America Organization has wanted to start a program that could provide scholarship assistance to America's teens," said Art McMaster, President & CEO of the Miss America Organization. "For 84 years, our organization has been helping young women to achieve their dreams and goals, and we are thrilled to now be able to provide those same opportunities for our country's teens."
"Miss America's Outstanding Teen will open doors across the nation for teens who excel in their schools and communities," said Donna Bozarth, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Miss America's Outstanding Teen. "Our scholarships and appearance opportunities will aid these outstanding young women to enter college with confidence and enthusiasm."
Contestants competing in the national finals will be judged on personal interview, talent, evening wear, active wear and lifestyle/fitness. For more information on Miss America's Outstanding Teen, or to find out how to enter the competition, please go to www.MAOTeen.org.
The Miss America’s Outstanding Teen will also establish community-based initiatives and mentoring programs aimed at helping our nation’s youth build character and gain the skills necessary for success in the real world. In partnership with committed adult volunteers, community and business leaders, as well as participants from the national competition, the Organization will implement programs aimed at helping young people develop strong values, leadership skills, social conscience, self worth and conviction about their own potential.
Funds raised by the Organization will be used to fund scholarships for deserving young people according to guidelines established by the Organization’s Board of Directors in accordance with Internal Revenue Service rules and regulations. Funds will also be used to establish and develop the Organization’s mentoring program and community-based initiatives.
The Miss America’s Outstanding Teen anticipates awarding scholarships to individuals on the basis of academic merit and civic and social achievement. Scholarships will be awarded without condition or obligation to provide future services.
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The Miss America Organization is one of the nation's leading achievement programs and the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women. Last year, the Miss America Organization and its state and local organizations made available more than $45 million in cash and scholarship assistance.
Miss America's Outstanding Teen Program
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Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, Inc. has been organized to encourage positive achievement by helping to nurture and build the scholastic achievement, creative accomplishment, healthy living and community involvement of our nation’s youth.
