The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
Miss Alabama Emma Terry on the Miss America Stage
ORLANDO, FL. - September 9, 2025
Alabama's grace, grit, and heart were on full display this weekend as Emma Terry, crowned Miss Alabama 2025, finished as fourth runner-up in the prestigious Miss America 2026 competition. Representing her hometown of Leeds, Terry stood out among 52 contestants from across the country, earning accolades for her talent, service, and leadership.
Held at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, the competition marked the culmination of months of preparation and advocacy. Terry's top-five finish places her among the most successful Miss Alabama representatives in recent history, continuing the state's strong tradition in national pageantry.
A Journey Rooted in Service and Strength
Emma Terry's rise to the national stage began with her crowning as Miss Alabama in June, where she also held the title of Miss Hoover. Known for her poise and passion, Terry quickly became a standout in the Miss America circuit, advancing through preliminary rounds that included talent, evening gown, and interview competitions.
Her chosen platform-centered on ALS awareness and caregiving advocacy-was inspired by her personal experience caring for her grandfather. That commitment earned her a $5,000 Quality of Life scholarship, awarded to contestants who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community impact.
Talent and Performance: A Dazzling Display
During the talent portion of the competition, Terry performed an en pointe ballet routine to "Flashdance", showcasing both technical skill and emotional depth. Judges praised her for combining athleticism with artistry, a performance that helped secure her spot among the final five.
Her ability to connect with the audience-through movement, message, and presence-was a hallmark of her Miss America journey.
Final Results and Honors
As the final names were read, Terry was announced as fourth runner-up, earning a $10,000 scholarship for her placement. The crown ultimately went to Miss New York, Cassie Donegan, a musical theater performer and childcare executive who impressed judges with her advocacy for arts education.
Outgoing Miss America Abbie Stockard, also from Alabama, passed the crown during the ceremony, marking a proud moment for the state. Stockard's reign as Miss America 2025 was a historic one, and Terry's finish ensures Alabama remains a force in national pageantry.
Terry's Reflections
Speaking after the event, Terry shared heartfelt reflections on her experience:
Her words reflect the humility and pride that have defined her journey-from local stages to the national spotlight.
Scholar, Advocate, Role Model
Beyond the glitz of the stage, Terry's impact is rooted in her advocacy and academic pursuits. She has championed caregiver support, raised awareness for ALS, and inspired young women across Alabama to pursue leadership and service.
Her performance at Miss America exemplifies the organization's mission: to empower women through education, opportunity, and community engagement.
Alabama's Legacy Continues
Emma Terry's fourth-place finish adds another chapter to Alabama's strong legacy in the Miss America competition. With back-to-back national recognition-thanks to Stockard's win in 2025 and Terry's top-five placement in 2026-the state continues to shine as a beacon of talent, purpose, and pride.
For Leeds and the broader Alabama community, Terry's journey is a source of inspiration. Her blend of elegance, empathy, and excellence reflects the very best of what the state has to offer.
What's Next
As she returns to Alabama, Terry will continue her work as Miss Alabama, engaging in statewide events, school visits, and advocacy campaigns. Her platform will remain central to her mission, and her national recognition will amplify her voice across the region.
Whether mentoring future contestants or expanding her outreach, Emma Terry's story is far from over-and Alabama will be cheering her on every step of the way.
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