Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

West Virginia has never had a Miss America winner, but Chelsea Jean Malone gave her state a moment of national recognition when she placed in the Top 15 at Miss America 2016. Raised in Morgantown, she began singing publicly as a child and developed a reputation for her vocal power.

Competing while studying at West Virginia University, Malone impressed judges with her confidence and artistry. Her performance made her one of the state’s most accomplished contestants, inspiring future representatives to dream bigger.