Auburn University student Abbie Stockard has been crowned Miss America 2025, bringing the prestigious title back to Alabama after competing against representatives from across the nation.

Historic evening in Orlando

The 22-year-old nursing student and cheerleader emerged victorious from a field of 52 contestants at Sunday’s pageant in Orlando, Florida. Annette Addo-Yobo of Texas, who made history as the state’s first foreign-born delegate, secured the first runner-up position, followed by representatives from Tennessee, Florida, and Ohio.

Competition highlights

The evening began with contestants in matching gold mini dresses before the field was narrowed to 11 finalists based on preliminary competition results. Contestants competed across several categories:

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• A fitness segment in red-and-gold athleisure wear
• Talent presentations ranging from slam poetry to clogging
• Evening wear competition
• Interview portions on contemporary issues

Stockard’s winning performance included a contemporary dance to Lauren Daigle’s music and an articulate response about post-pandemic workforce participation during the interview segment.

Personal journey and inspiration

In emotional footage broadcast during the event, Stockard credited her success to two key influences: her mother, who worked multiple jobs to support her family, and her best friend, who lives with cystic fibrosis. Her charity initiative during the competition focused on raising funds for cystic fibrosis research.

“This is insane. I don’t know what I did to deserve this,” Stockard said in a video posted to Miss America’s official Instagram following her victory.

Evolving tradition

The competition, now in its 104th year, continues to adapt to changing times. Recent changes include:

• Replacement of the swimwear segment with fitness competition in 2023
• Increased maximum age limit from 25 to 28
• The transition from network television to streaming platforms

The pageant was judged by a distinguished panel including Olympic athlete Carl Lewis and “Cheer” star Gabi Butler. Stockard succeeds Madison Marsh, who made history in 2024 as the first active-duty military member to win the crown.