Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

Katie Stam gave Indiana its very first Miss America title in 2009. Raised on a dairy farm in Seymour, she grew up milking cows and working hard before stepping into the pageant world. Her rural upbringing gave her a grounded, relatable quality that resonated with judges and audiences alike.

During her reign, Stam focused on community service and became known for her genuine warmth. She later built a career in broadcasting and motivational speaking, carrying her Hoosier values into everything she did. Her win was a proud first for Indiana after decades of trying.