Regan Hutsell Crowned 99th Miss America

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Sept. 7, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Regan Hutsell, 18-year-old Miss Texas, has been crowned the 99th Miss America, marking a historic moment for the organization and its mission of empowering women. Hutsell, who began her professional dance career as a Radio City Rockette and later performed internationally with the Birmingham Royal Ballet, brings a unique combination of discipline and resilience to the role.

Hutsell’s journey to the Miss America crown is one of personal triumph as well. While pursuing her dance career, she overcame an eating disorder and the pressures of perfectionism and body image, experiences that have inspired her Community Service Initiative, Your Body Is Your Home. Through this initiative, she encourages individuals to cultivate healthy self-worth, build positive inner dialogue, and understand that their value is never defined by appearance.

At the preliminary competition, Hutsell earned preliminary awards in both fitness and talent, with her talent award recognizing her jazz dance performance to "Le Jazz Hot." Her community service initiative, Your Body Is Your Home, was also recognized, earning her a place among the Top 5 finalists. Alongside her, Shelby Bordelon, Kate Dimmett, Sharlize True Trujillo, and Evelyn Smith were the other finalists, with Hutsell emerging as the winner.

Hutsell's win is particularly significant as she is the first woman of color to win the Miss America crown while wearing her natural hair. The final night of competition, hosted by Jennifer Hale and Billy Gilman, took place at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, and featured a celebrity judging panel including Kate Shindle, Dr. Regina Benjamin, Vicki Vlahos, Hal Rubenstein, Ubah Hassan, and Ellen Latham.

Through the Miss America Opportunity, Hutsell has earned nearly $90,000 in scholarships, which will help fund her education as she pursues a Bachelor's of Science in Health Sciences. Her ultimate goal is to become a Physical Therapist. "Miss America has always represented hope and inspiration," Hutsell said. "I am incredibly honored to represent an organization that empowers women through scholarships, service, and opportunity. I look forward to encouraging individuals of all generations to walk boldly in their purpose, pursue their wildest dreams, and never give up on themselves."

The Miss America Organization's mission of "Empowering Women to Lead with Purpose" aligns closely with Hutsell's values. As Miss America, she will continue to inspire others to embrace their purpose, lead with conviction, and create meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. This year, the organization will award over $5 million in tuition scholarships and provide an additional $35 million in-kind scholarships through its national, state, and local programs.

Regan Hutsell's win marks a historic milestone for the Miss America Organization and sets a new standard for the next generation of Miss Americas.