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The Miss Indiana competition is the pageant that selects the representative for the state of Indiana in the Miss America Pageant.

Key Information

Kinley Shoemaker of Franklin was crowned Miss Indiana 2025 on June 21, 2025, at STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville. She competed for the title of Miss America 2026 in September 2025.

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Results summary

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The following is a visual summary of the past results of Miss Indiana titleholders at the national Miss America pageants/competitions. The year in parentheses indicates the year of the national competition during which a placement and/or award was garnered, not the year attached to the contestant's state title.

Placements

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  • Miss Americas: Katie Stam (2009)
  • 1st runners-up: Carol Mitchell (1952), Ann Garnier (1953), Barbara Mougin (1978), Nicole Rash (2008)
  • 2nd runners-up: Eileen Smith (1966), Shelli Yoder (1993), Cydney Bridges (2024)
  • 3rd runners-up: Pam Carlberg (1982)
  • 4th runners-up: Tommye Glaze (1961), Kit Field (1969), Rebecca Graham (1973), Tiffany Storm (1995)
  • Top 5: Anna Howe (1927)
  • Top 7: Elizabeth Hallal (2023)
  • Top 10: Mary Haglund (1968), Penny Tichenor (1975), Cyndi Legler (1976), Laurie Broderick (1986), Shani Nielsen (1997), Julianne Hackney (1999), Bryn Chapman (2004)
  • Top 12: MerrieBeth Cox (2013)
  • Top 15: Helen Emly (1938), Tangra Riggle (2003), Nicole Pollard (2010), Lydia Tremaine (2019)
  • Top 20: Allison Hatcher (2002)

Preliminary awards

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Non-finalist awards

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  • Non-finalist Talent: Kathleen Burke (1962), Pat Patterson (1972), Sheila Stephen (1988), Sarah Wiley (2005), Gabrielle Reed (2011), Audra Casterline (2015)

Other awards

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  • Miss Congeniality: Debbie May (1971), Cydney Bridges (2024)
  • Albert A. Marks Jr. Interview Award: Kelly Lloyd (2000)
  • Bernie Wayne Talent Award: Tiffany Storm (1995), Shani Nielsen (1997)
  • Evening Dress Award: Thelma Blossom (1922)
  • Intercity Roller Chair Parade Award: Thelma Blossom (1922)
  • Neat as a Pin Award: Pat Patterson (1972) (tie)
  • Professional Beauty Award Third Prize: Sydney Nelson (1922)
  • Quality of Life Award Finalists: Betsy Uschkrat (2007), Katie Stam (2009)

Winners

[edit]
  •   Declared as winner
  •   Ended as a runner-up
  •   Ended as a finalist or semi-finalist
Year Name Hometown Age Local Title Miss America Talent Placement at Miss America Special scholarships at Miss America Notes
2025 Kinley Shoemaker Indianapolis 20 Miss Metropolitan TBA TBA TBA Previously Miss Indiana Teen USA 2023
2024 Kalyn Melham Muncie 23 Miss Southern Heartland Vocal
2023 Cydney Bridges Fort Wayne 22 Miss Fort Wayne Vocal, "I'll Be There" 2nd Runner-Up Miss Congeniality
2022 Elizabeth Hallal Georgetown 21 Miss Southern Heartland Musical Theater Vocal "Defying Gravity" Top 7 Preliminary Talent Award
2021 Braxton Hiser[1] Indianapolis 24 Miss West Central Indiana Vocal
2019–20 Tiarra Taylor[2] New Albany 21 Miss Indiana State University Vocal
2018 Lydia Tremaine[3] Kendallville 20 Miss Fort Wayne Vocal, "That's Life" Top 15[4] Preliminary Talent Award[5] Later 2nd runner-up at Miss Indiana USA 2021[citation needed]
2017 Haley Jordan Begay[6] Pittsboro 19 Miss Metropolitan Vocal, "Hallelujah" Later crowned Miss Indiana USA 2023
2016 Brianna DeCamp[7][8] Kendallville 22 Miss Limberlost Tap Dance Previously Miss Indiana's Outstanding Teen 2011[9]
2015 Morgan Jackson[10] Charlestown 21 Miss Harvest Homecoming Lyrical Ballet, "It Is Well with My Soul" by Bill Gaither Daughter of Miss New Mexico 1984, Trina Collins[11]

Previously Miss Indiana's Outstanding Teen 2007[11]
Top 10 at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2008 pageant[12]

Contestant at National Sweetheart 2014 pageant
2014 Audra Casterline[13] Fishers 23 Miss Hoosier Heartland Vocal, "Over the Rainbow" Non-finalist Talent Award Contestant at National Sweetheart 2012 pageant
2013 Terrin Thomas[14] Auburn 21 Miss Indiana University Vocal, "I'm Afraid This Must Be Love" Arrested and charged with public intoxication, disorderly conduct and resisting law enforcement in December 2014[15]
Charges were dropped as of May 2015[16]
2012 MerrieBeth Cox[17] Roselle, IL 22 Miss Duneland Baton Twirling, "Sparkling Diamonds" Top 12[14] Eligible as a student at Purdue University

Previously Miss Illinois' Outstanding Teen 2007[18]

Purdue University's 27th Golden Girl[19]
2011 Jackie Jerlecki[20] Goshen 22 Miss Duneland Vocal, "Take Me to the World" from Evening Primrose
2010 Gabrielle Reed Bloomington 22 Miss Southern Heartland Vocal, "You'll Never Walk Alone" from Carousel Non-finalist Talent Award
2009 Nicole Pollard Lafayette 23 Miss Duneland Broadway Vocal, "And This Is My Beloved" Top 15 Previously Indiana's Junior Miss 2004
2008 Megan Meadors Auburn 22 Miss Pride of Indiana Vocal Did not compete; originally placed 6th in the pageant, later assumed the title after Stam won Miss America 2009
Contestant at National Sweetheart 2005 pageant

Cheerleader for the Indianapolis Colts[21]
Katie Stam Seymour 22 Miss Duneland Vocal, "Via Dolorosa" Winner Preliminary Swimsuit Award

Quality of Life Award Finalist 		Received a "Golden Sash" and automatic Top 15 placement at Miss America 2009 pageant on Miss America: Countdown to the Crown
2007 Nicole Rash[22] Plymouth 23 Miss Ball State University Vocal, "Bandito" 1st runner-up Top 10 at National Sweetheart 2006 pageant

Later Ms. Missouri 2012 and Ms. America 2012[23]

Later Mrs. America 2018 (under married name, Nicole Cook)[24]
Top 6 at Mrs. World 2018 pageant
2006 Betsy Uschkrat Bloomington 24 Miss Indiana University Classical Vocal, "Quando me'n vo'" Quality of Life Award Finalist
2005 Susan Guilkey Noblesville 22 Miss North Central Vocal, "I, Don Quixote" from Man of La Mancha Later married Indiana Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith
2004 Sarah Wiley Carmel 24 Miss Wabash Valley Vocal, "What Kind of Fool Am I?" Non-finalist Talent Award Top 10 (2002) and contestant (2003) at National Sweetheart pageants
2003 Bryn Chapman Indianapolis 21 Miss South Central Vocal, "Home" from Phantom Top 10 3rd runner-up at National Sweetheart 2002 pageant as Miss Kentucky
2002 Tangra Riggle[25] West Lafayette 21 Miss North Central Vocal, "God Bless America" Top 15 Preliminary Talent Award
2001 Allison Hatcher Evansville 24 Classical Piano, "Prelude in G Minor" Top 20
2000 Betsy Bobel Peru 23 Miss Duneland Gymnastics, "In the Mood" Sister of Miss Indiana USA 2006, Bridget Bobel
1999 Kelly Lloyd Indianapolis 22 Miss North Central Jazz Dance, "Jump, Jive an' Wail" Albert A. Marks Jr. Interview Award Triple Crown Winner


2nd runner-up at National Sweetheart 1998 pageant

1998 Julianne Hackney Vincennes 20 Miss Northwest Territory Vocal, "My Man" Top 10 Top 10 at National Sweetheart 1997 pageant
1997 Sara Engerman Kendallville 19 Miss Limberlost Tap Dance, "Shout And Feel It"
1996 Shani Nielsen New Albany 24 Miss Harvest Homecoming Vocal, "In His Eyes" from Jekyll & Hyde Top 10 Bernie Wayne Talent Award

Preliminary Talent Award
1995 Becky Gray Indianapolis 23 Miss North Central Piano
1994 Tiffany Storm Bloomington 24 Miss Capital City Dramatic Vocal, "Papa, Can You Hear Me?" 4th runner-up Bernie Wayne Talent Award

Preliminary Swimsuit Award
1993 Dayna Brewer New Albany 22 Miss Capital City Vocal, "When I Look At You" from The Scarlet Pimpernel
1992 Shelli Yoder Shipshewana 24 Miss Elkhart Vocal, "This Is the Moment" 2nd runner-up Preliminary Swimsuit Award (tie) Ran for United States House of Representatives as the Democratic candidate in 2012 and 2016[26][27]
1991 Kari Hipsher Wabash 23 Miss Huntington Ballet en Pointe
1990 Brenda Bassett Kokomo 21 Miss Kokomo Character Ballet en Pointe
1989 Lisa Williamson Terre Haute 26 Miss Hoosier Hills Classical Vocal, "The Doll Song" from The Tales of Hoffmann
1988 Joni McMechan Liberty 21 Miss Central Indiana Semi-classical Vocal Medley
1987 Sheila Stephen Unionville 23 Miss Hoosier Hills Country Vocal, "Only You" Non-finalist Talent Award
1986 Susan Sailor Elkhart 20 Miss Elkhart Piano
1985 Laurie Broderick Elkhart 21 Miss Elkhart Dance / Twirl Top 10 Preliminary Talent Award
1984 Cynthia Yantis Fort Wayne 23 Miss Fort Wayne Popular Vocal, "City Lights"
1983 Teri Schultz Bloomington 21 Miss Hoosier Hills Ballet, "Sylvia"
1982 Ilona Conway Bunker Hill 25 Popular Vocal, "Mister Melody"
1981 Pam Carlberg Bourbon 21 Miss Plymouth Accordion Medley, "Sabre Dance" & "Ritual Fire Dance" 3rd runner-up
1980 Teri Kardatzke Anderson 19 Miss Anderson Semi-classical Vocal, "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star"
1979 Rickee Farrell Valparaiso 18 Miss North Central Acrobatic Dance, "Sweet Charity"
1978 Terry Kaiser Etna Green 22 Miss Plymouth Modern Dance, "Symphony No. 8" by Franz Schubert
1977 Barbara Mougin Bremen 24 Miss Plymouth Modern Dance, "Theme from Summer of '42" 1st runner-up
1976 Tamara Trittschuh Plainfield 21 Miss Monroe County Piano, "Rhapsodies, Op. 79" by Johannes Brahms
1975 Cyndi Legler Fort Wayne 21 Miss Mid-Central Classical Ballet, "Dawn" from Coppélia Top 10 Contestant at National Sweetheart 1974 pageant
1974 Penny Tichenor Owensville 21 Miss Evansville Freedom Festival Vocal, "Maybe This Time" from Cabaret Top 10
1973 Karen Rogers Indianapolis 22 Miss Indiana Central College Popular Vocal, "Put a Little Love in Your Heart"
1972 Rebecca Graham Indianapolis 23 Miss South Central Gymnastics Dance 4th runner-up Preliminary Swimsuit Award
1971 Pat Patterson Gary 22 Miss Gary Vocal, "My Funny Valentine" Special Talent Award

Neat as a Pin Award (tie)[28] 		First African-American Miss Indiana[citation needed]

Performed as a recording artist under the name "Kellee Patterson"
1970 Debbie May Remington 21 Miss Indianapolis Semi-classical Vocal, "The Impossible Dream" Miss Congeniality
1969 Jill Jackson Anderson 18 Miss Anderson Vocal / Dance, "Much More" from The Fantasticks
1968 Kit Field Indianapolis 21 Miss Indianapolis Vocal, "Why Was I Born?" 4th runner-up Featured performer on Miss America 1969 telecast
1967 Mary Haglund Indianapolis / Janesville, Wisconsin 19 Miss Butler University Figure Skating, "Swan Lake" & "The Shadow of Your Smile" Top 10 Preliminary Talent Award A Wisconsin native, Mary qualified by attending college studies at Butler University in Indianapolis.
1966 Jane Ann Rutledge Vincennes 19 Miss Indiana University Piano medley of works by George Gershwin
1965 Eileen Smith Indianapolis 18 Miss Indianapolis Vocal Medley, "The Sound of Music" & "Climb Ev'ry Mountain" 2nd runner-up Preliminary Talent Award
1964 Sandra Miller Bedford 20 Miss Bedford Popular Vocal
1963 Marsha Pinkstaff Crawfordsville Miss Butler University Dramatic Reading
1962 Julia Flaningan Lebanon 20 Popular Vocal
1961 Kathleen Burke Terre Haute 18 Miss Indiana State Teachers College Musical Monologue & Fashion Show Non-finalist Talent Award
1960 Tommye Glaze Culver 21 Miss Plymouth Classical Vocal, "Una Voce Poco Fa" from The Barber of Seville 4th runner-up Preliminary Talent Award
1959 Barbara Kummer Valparaiso 20 Miss Valparaiso University Impersonations of Television Personalities
1958 Anita Hursh Goshen Miss Goshen Piano, "Polonaise" by Frédéric Chopin Preliminary Swimsuit Award
1957 Gloria Rupprecht Valparaiso Miss Valparaiso University Vocal / Comedy Skit, "My Hero" Preliminary Talent Award
1956 Mary McNulty Fort Wayne 22 Miss Fort Wayne Soft Shoe Dance, "Singin' in the Rain"
1955 Carolyn Turner Indianapolis Miss Indianapolis Chalk Talk & Poetry
1954 Sue Eaton Monticello Art/Photo Display & Hula
1953 Violet Wratich East Chicago Miss East Chicago Vocal
1952 Ann Garnier Indianapolis Miss Indianapolis Classical Vocal, "Il Bacio" by Luigi Arditi 1st runner-up
1951 Carol Mitchell Rochester Miss Rochester Chalk Talk & Marionette Exhibition 1st runner-up
1950 Pat Berry Indianapolis Miss Monticello Vocal, "I'm Falling In Love With Someone" from Naughty Marietta
1949 Patricia Cunningham Peru Water Ballet Original winner, Fay Suter, was disqualified for having competed in two local pageants that same year[29]
1948 Patti Grubbs Gary Vocal, "When You Are Away"
1947 Beverly Trenary Vocal, "I'll Close My Eyes"
1946 Lois Chitwood Helmsburg Miss Indiana University Piano & Speech
1945 Betty Lockyear Evansville Vocal, "Indian Love Call"
1944 No Indiana representative at Miss America pageant[30][31][32]
1943
1942
1941 Alice Ullery Evansville Modeling
1940 Carolyn Akin Tap Dance
1939 No Indiana representative at Miss America pageant[33]
1938 Rosemary White Miss Indianapolis Multiple Indiana representatives

Contestants competed under local title at Miss America pageant
Helen Emly Letts Miss Letts Top 15
1937 No Indiana representative at Miss America pageant[34][35][36]
1936
1935
1934 No national pageant was held[37]
1933 Mary Frances Lininger N/A[38] N/A Chose to get married and thus did not compete at Miss America 1933 pageant
1932 No national pageants were held[37]
1931
1930
1929
1928
1927 Anna May Owens Gary Miss Gary N/A[38] Multiple Indiana representatives

Contestants competed under local title at Miss America pageant
Anna Howe Miss Hammond Top 5
Hilda Koch South Bend Miss South Bend
Vera Haspal Miss Terre Haute
1926 Wanda Marie Sobczak Michigan City 20 Won the inaugural Miss Indiana pageant that took place at Gay Mills Ballroom in Miller, Indiana
1925 No Indiana representative at Miss America pageant[39][40][41]
1924
1923
1922 Sydney Nelson[42] Indianapolis[43] N/A[38] Professional Beauty Award Third Prize[44] Nelson lived and worked in New York City at time of pageant but cited as being from Indianapolis (therefore credited as a "Miss Indiana" titleholder).[43]

Appeared in the Broadway productions of The Passing Show of 1922 and The Whirl of New York[43][45]
Thelma Blossom[46] Indianapolis 20 Miss Indianapolis Evening Dress Award[47]

Intercity Roller Chair Parade Award[48] 		Competed as Miss Indianapolis at Miss America pageant
1921
No Indiana representative at Miss America pageant[49]

References

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Miss Indiana

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Miss Indiana is the title awarded to the winner of the annual Miss Indiana Scholarship Competition, a statewide pageant that serves as the official preliminary to the Organization for unmarried women aged 18 to 28 who are residents. The competition emphasizes , , and through judged categories including , talent, on-stage presence, and evening wear, with the titleholder receiving a $10,000 and advancing to represent at the national pageant. Established in 1927 as part of the early development of state-level preliminaries to , the pageant traces its roots to 1923 when Hilda Marguerite Koch of South Bend became the first representative at the national competition, sponsored by local newspapers and corporations. Over the decades, it has evolved to award more than $60,000 in cash and in-kind annually, including $3,000 to the first runner-up and additional awards for categories like talent ($300) and STEM ($1,000), administered through the Indiana Educational Fund to support contestants' undergraduate and graduate studies. The event, now held at the Tilson Auditorium on the campus in Terre Haute since 1999, requires participants to first win one of over 20 local preliminary competitions across the state. Key milestones include the introduction of talent judging in the 1940s, the shift to Olympic-style scoring in the 1980s, and the requirement for personal platforms—focusing on social issues—starting in 1991, reflecting the pageant's commitment to empowering women beyond aesthetics. Notable achievements feature Katie Stam's historic win as Miss America 2009, the first for an Indiana titleholder, along with top national placements such as Barbara Mougin's first runner-up finish in 1977 and Eileen Mary Smith's second runner-up in 1965. The pageant also marked a diversity milestone in 1971 with Pat Patterson becoming the first African American Miss Indiana, highlighting its role in promoting inclusivity within the Miss America system. In addition to the adult competition, Miss Indiana's Outstanding Teen serves as a parallel preliminary for girls aged 14 to 18, awarding $6,000 to its winner and fostering early leadership development.

Background

Program overview

The Miss Indiana program serves as the official state preliminary competition for selecting Indiana's representative to the pageant, providing a competitive platform for accomplished young women to showcase their talents and advocacy efforts. Central to the program's mission is empowering participants through opportunities, , and , with the organization awarding approximately $44,500 in cash scholarships annually, plus in-kind scholarships from partnering institutions, to support contestants' educational pursuits. These funds underscore the program's commitment to fostering and personal growth among women from diverse backgrounds across the state. Held annually in Indiana—most recently in Zionsville during the summer months—the event draws participants from throughout the state, competing in a structured format that highlights their skills in , talent, and social impact initiatives. As an affiliate of the Organization, Miss Indiana aligns with national standards while emphasizing local empowerment and service.

Organizational affiliation

The Miss Indiana Scholarship Pageant, Inc. serves as the official Indiana affiliate of the Organization, operating as the state's preliminary competition to select representatives for the national pageant. Headquartered at PO Box 40775 in , Indiana, the organization aligns with the Miss America system's mission to promote , , and among young women. Governance is provided by a volunteer-led , which includes key stakeholders such as Aren Straiger, Craig Munk, Breanne Tisch, Michael Nash, and Treasurer Steve Straiger, along with chairs for specialized roles like ticket sales (Karen Keck), and , and scholarships (Tony Shull). This structure ensures operational oversight by dedicated community members committed to the program's objectives. Contestants for the state pageant are selected through a network of local preliminary competitions that act as feeders, where winners advance to represent their regions at the annual Miss Indiana event. These include closed locals limited to specific counties or areas, such as Miss Fort Wayne, Miss Auburn Cord Duesenberg, and Miss Elkhart County/South Bend; open statewide locals like Miss Banks of the Wabash, Miss Cardinal, and Miss Southern Heartland; and collegiate programs including Miss and Miss . This tiered system allows broad participation across . Funding for the organization primarily comes from ticket sales for pageant events, corporate and individual sponsorships—such as those from the Indiana Elks and Prudential at and levels—and contributions tied to the national scholarships. The Indiana Educational Scholarship Fund (IESF) administers these resources, directing 100% of donations toward cash and in-kind awards totaling approximately $44,500 in cash annually, plus in-kind contributions, supporting contestants' educational pursuits.

History

Founding and early development

The Miss Indiana Scholarship Program originated in the early 1920s as part of the Organization's expansion to include state-level representatives, with the inaugural state selection occurring in 1923. The first pageant was held in , where local contests identified candidates to compete nationally; notably, Hilda Marguerite Koch, representing as Miss South Bend, and Anna May Owens, as Miss Gary, became the initial participants at the Miss America Pageant that year. This marked Indiana's entry into the growing network of preliminary competitions aimed at identifying regional talent for the national event. In its formative years through , the pageant emphasized traditional criteria of beauty, poise, and personality, with events often held outdoors, such as at Broad Ripple Park in . Competitions were sporadic, influenced by the national 's own pauses from 1928 to 1932 and in 1934, resulting in no official Indiana titleholders during those periods. By the late 1930s, the format began evolving to incorporate talent performances, aligning with national trends introduced at in , though early state judging still prioritized appearance over skills. Representative examples include winners like Helen Marie Emly (, Miss Letts), who advanced to semi-finalist status at the national level, highlighting the pageant's growing role in preparing contestants for broader competition. The onset of posed significant challenges, leading to a temporary suspension of the pageant from 1942 to 1944 due to resource constraints and national priorities. Pre-war events in Evansville drew large fields—92 contestants in 1940 and 48 in 1941—but the conflict halted activities, with no state representative sent to during those years. Post-war resurgence began in 1945, with the competition resuming in Terre Haute and Betty Lockyear of Evansville crowned as the first titleholder after the hiatus; subsequent winners, such as Lois Chitwood (1946, Miss Indiana University), showcased emerging emphases on talent like and speech, signaling the program's and growth into the mid-20th century.

Key milestones and changes

In 1971, the Miss Indiana Scholarship Program achieved a significant diversity milestone when , representing Gary, became the first African-American woman to be crowned Miss Indiana. This historic win also marked her as only the second African-American contestant to compete at the national level, where she received the Non-Finalist Interview Scholarship and a Special Talent Award for her . Patterson's success highlighted growing inclusivity in the pageant, inspiring future generations of contestants from underrepresented backgrounds. During the 1980s and , the Miss Indiana pageant underwent structural reforms to emphasize contestants' intellect and . Late in the , the format shifted from brief 15-second opening speeches to private 10-minute interviews with judges, which later became 30% of the overall score under an Olympic-style 1-10 judging system. In alignment with national changes, the program introduced mandatory social impact platforms in , requiring contestants to select and advocate for a personal initiative, such as or health awareness, to underscore the pageant's scholarship and empowerment focus. These updates, including the pageant's relocation to Terre Haute in 1999 and subsequent move to the Zionsville in , modernized the competition and boosted participation by prioritizing substantive preparation over superficial elements. The 2009 crowning of Irk as represented a pinnacle achievement for Miss Indiana, elevating the program's national profile. Stam, who won the state title in 2008 on her first attempt, became the first to claim the crown in the pageant's history, despite competing while ill with . Her victory secured a $50,000 and amplified visibility for the Miss Indiana Scholarship Program, leading to increased funding, higher attendance at state events, and expanded opportunities for contestants' educational and advocacy pursuits. Following the 2018 Miss America reforms, which eliminated the and emphasized empowerment, the Miss Indiana pageant adapted by integrating social impact pitches and conversational evening wear segments. These changes replaced physical evaluations with discussions on contestants' platforms during evening wear, while retaining a strong focus on talent performances to showcase skills like vocal or routines. In response to the , the 2020 event was canceled and the 2021 competition was modified due to restrictions but held in-person, with the program returning to full in-person formats thereafter; the 2025 competition was held June 18–21 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville, marking the 20th year of the pageant in that location and crowning Kinley Shoemaker as Miss Indiana 2025.

Pageant format

Eligibility and preparation

To compete as a contestant in the Miss Indiana pageant, an official preliminary to the competition, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria established by the Miss America Organization (MAO). These include being a single woman who is a citizen, female (born female or a female who has fully completed gender-affirming surgery from male to female, with medical documentation), and an resident, full-time employee in the state, or full-time student at an accredited college or . Candidates must also have no children or dependents and maintain an unmarried status throughout the competition cycle and any subsequent titleholder term. Additionally, participants must be between 18 and 28 years of age, with no younger than 18 as of September 1 of the competition year and no older than 28 as of September 30, and they cannot have previously competed at the national level. The preparation pathway begins with qualifying through local preliminary competitions across , such as Miss Bloomington or Miss Fort Wayne, where winners advance to the state pageant. These locals are often geographically restricted to residents, employees, or students in specific areas, though some are open to all eligible Indiana women, providing a structured entry point to build experience and skills, including a minimum $500 fundraising requirement to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals for state qualification. The overall process aligns with the MAO's scholarship focus, awarding approximately $60,000 in cash scholarships annually for and . Once qualified, contestants undergo intensive training in key areas, including coaching for a 90-second talent performance (such as vocal, , or instrumental), a 10-minute private interview on personal background and goals, and development of a personal platform known as the social impact initiative (formerly Community Service Initiative). This preparation emphasizes , poise, and issue-based to prepare for the state-level judging. Contestants must also commit to fundraising for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and develop a social impact initiative addressing a personal cause. The application process for local competitions requires submission of a fact sheet detailing personal and educational background (functioning as a resume), a description of the social impact initiative (often in essay form), and a local contestant contract; photographs are typically required for promotional and entry purposes. Applications are handled through local directors or the state organization, with deadlines varying by preliminary.

Competition components

The Miss Indiana pageant is structured as a multi-night event, typically spanning several days in , with preliminary competitions held over one or more evenings followed by . For instance, the 2026 competition is scheduled for June 17–20 at the Star Bank in , featuring preliminary rounds on June 17, 18, and 19 at 7:00 p.m., a on June 20, and that evening at 6:00 p.m. This format allows contestants to showcase their skills progressively, culminating in the selection of the titleholder who advances to the competition. The competition components align with the Miss America Organization's guidelines for state preliminaries, emphasizing scholarship, achievement, and community service. During the preliminary night(s), contestants participate in five phases: a 30% weighted private assessing communication and platform; 20% fitness (formerly swimsuit), evaluating physical health and poise; 20% talent, highlighting artistic expression; 20% evening wear, focusing on elegance and presentation; and 10% on-stage question, testing quick thinking. On finals night, scoring shifts to equal 25% weights across four phases: private , talent, evening wear combined with on-stage , and a final on-stage . Judges score each phase from 1 to 10, discarding high and low scores per contestant to ensure fairness. The event incorporates an opening production number to introduce contestants and concludes with the crowning of Miss Indiana and Miss Indiana's Teen. Preliminary awards are presented on the first night(s) to recognize outstanding performances in specific phases, such as talent, fitness, and evening wear, providing scholarships and acknowledgment to top scorers. The venue has been the Star Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville since approximately 2005, following previous hosting at Tilson in Terre Haute.

Achievements

National placements

Miss Indiana titleholders have competed at the national competition since the state's first participation in 1923, achieving one crown and several high placements over nearly a century of representation. The program's most notable success came in 2009 when , representing Miss Duneland, was crowned Miss America 2009, marking the first and only win for Indiana in the pageant's history. This victory followed a series of strong performances, including four first runner-up finishes: Carol Mitchell in 1952, Ann Marie Garnier in 1953, Barbara Mougin in 1978, and Nicole Rash in 2008. In terms of placement breakdown, Miss Indiana has secured four second runner-up positions, with Eileen Mary Smith placing in 1966, Shelli Yoder in 1993, Cydney Bridges in 2024, and an additional historical placement. The state has also earned at least 12 top 10 finishes since 1923, including semifinalist or better spots for titleholders such as Mary Lynn Haglund (1967), Penny Tichenor (1974), Cyndi Legler (1975), Laurie Broderick (1985), Shani Nielsen (1996), Julianne Hackney (1998), Bryn Chapman (2003), and Elizabeth Hallal (2022). Allison Hatcher (2001) achieved a top 20 finish. Kalyn Melham (2024) competed at Miss America 2025 without a top 15 placement. Historically, Miss Indiana has shown particular strength in the mid-20th century and the , with consecutive first runner-up placements in the early and a resurgence in the featuring the win, multiple top 10s, and recent top 5 finishes like Bridges' second runner-up in 2024. Earlier highlights include a top 15 placement for Helen Marie Emly in 1937, reflecting early competitiveness during the pageant's formative years. As of November 2025, Miss Indiana titleholders have made approximately 99 appearances at the national level, corresponding to a win percentage of about 1 percent based on the single crown amid consistent participation since 1923. This record underscores Indiana's role as a competitive state program within the Organization, with placements emphasizing talent and components over the years.

Awards received

Miss Indiana contestants have earned numerous preliminary awards at the national Miss America pageant, recognizing excellence in specific competition phases. In the talent category, notable winners include Elizabeth Hallal in 2022 for her vocal performance of "Defying Gravity," earning a $2,500 scholarship, and Lydia Tremaine in 2018 for her rendition of "That's Life." Other preliminary talent recipients encompass Gloria Rupprecht (1957), Tommye Lou Glaze (1960), and Shani Nielsen (1996). Swimsuit preliminary awards have gone to Katie Stam (2008), Morgan Jackson (2015), and Haley Begay (2017), while evening wear honors were bestowed upon Cydney Bridges in 2023. Interview preliminary awards highlight Katie Stam (2008), Lydia Tremaine (2018), and Cydney Bridges (2023), underscoring strong private session performances. Non-finalist awards provide recognition to contestants who excel without advancing to the finals, often in talent and . For instance, Gabrielle Reed received a non-finalist talent award in 2010 for her vocal performance, while Audra Casterline earned one in 2014. In the , multiple Miss Indiana representatives, such as those competing in the mid-decade, secured non-finalist talent honors for diverse acts including and pieces. A non-finalist award was achieved by Lydia Tremaine in 2018, reflecting her poised responses during judging. Special awards celebrate unique qualities and contributions beyond core competitions. Cydney Bridges was voted Miss Congeniality in 2024 by her fellow contestants, a peer-elected honor for exemplary . Earlier, Debbie May received the same distinction in 1970. finalists from include Katie Stam (Top 8 in 2008) and Susan Guilkey (finalist in 2005), recognizing impactful social initiatives; several contestants in the , such as Gabrielle Reed with her 2010 MAO Award, advanced as finalists for community-focused projects. Additional special recognitions feature Elizabeth Hallal's 2022 wins in the Edward Poe and Denise Hendrix Vocalist Awards. At the state level, the Miss Indiana Scholarship Program distributes substantial honors to encourage . Runners-up and preliminary winners receive scholarships, including $3,000 for first runner-up and $2,000 for second runner-up, alongside awards for outstanding teen participants totaling $6,000. Overall, the program awards more than $60,000 annually in scholarships to contestants, supporting higher education pursuits.

Titleholders

List of winners

The Miss Indiana Scholarship Program, an official preliminary to the Miss America competition, has selected a state titleholder most years since its informal beginnings in the early 1920s, with documented gaps during (no pageants held in 1943 and 1944) and the (no pageant in 2020). The following table lists all verified titleholders chronologically, including the year of crowning, winner's full name, hometown (or primary residence at the time), and notes on their placement or awards at the national Miss America pageant where applicable. Hometowns are based on local titles or reported residences; ages at crowning are included only where explicitly documented in sources.
YearNameHometownNotes on National Placement
1927Hilda KochSouth BendCompeted at Miss America.
1935Helen Marie EmlyLettsTop 15 finalist at Miss America.
1940Carolyn AkinEvansvilleCompeted at Miss America.
1941Alice UlleryEvansvilleCompeted at Miss America.
1945Betty LockyearEvansvillePerformed vocal solo; competed at Miss America.
1946Lois ChitwoodBloomington (Indiana University)Piano performance; competed at Miss America.
1947Beverly “Teri” TrenaryGaryCompeted at Miss America.
1948Patti GrubbsGaryCompeted at Miss America.
1949Patricia CunninghamMonticelloWater ballet talent; competed at Miss America.
1950Pat BerryMonticelloCompeted at Miss America.
1951Carol MitchellRochester1st runner-up at Miss America.
1952Ann Marie GarnierIndianapolis1st runner-up at Miss America.
1953Violet WratichEast ChicagoCompeted at Miss America.
1954Sue Carol EatonIndianapolisCompeted at Miss America.
1955Carolyn Sue TurnerIndianapolisCompeted at Miss America.
1956Mary Jane McNultyFort WayneCompeted at Miss America.
1957Gloria RupprechtValparaiso (Valparaiso University)Preliminary Talent Award at Miss America.
1958Anita Marie HurshGoshenPreliminary Swimsuit winner at Miss America.
1959Barbara Jean KummerValparaiso (Valparaiso University)Competed at Miss America.
1960Tommye Lou GlazePlymouth4th runner-up and Preliminary Talent winner at Miss America.
1961Kathleen Jane BurkeTerre Haute (Indiana State Teachers College)Non-finalist Talent Award at Miss America.
1962Julia Jane FlaninganIndianapolis (Butler University)Competed at Miss America.
1963Marsha Jane PinkstaffIndianapolis (Butler University)Competed at Miss America.
1964Sandra Sue MillerBedfordTied for Talent Award; competed at Miss America.
1965Eileen Mary SmithIndianapolis2nd runner-up and Talent Award winner at Miss America.
1966Jane Ann RutledgeBloomington (Indiana University)Competed at Miss America.
1967Mary Lynn HaglundIndianapolis (Butler University)Top 10 and Preliminary Talent winner at Miss America.
1968Kit FieldIndianapolis4th runner-up at Miss America.
1969Jill JacksonAndersonCompeted at Miss America.
1970Debbie MayIndianapolisMiss Congeniality at Miss America.
1971Pat PattersonGaryFirst African American titleholder; Special Talent Award at Miss America.
1972Rebecca GrahamTrafalgar (South Central)4th runner-up and Preliminary Swimsuit winner at Miss America.
1973Karen RogersIndianapolis (Indiana Central College)Top 10 at Miss America.
1974Penny TichenorOwensville (Evansville Freedom Festival)Top 10 at Miss America.
1975Cyndi LeglerKokomo (Mid-Central)Top 10 at Miss America.
1976Tamara TrittschuhBloomington (Monroe County)Competed at Miss America.
1977Barbara MouginPlymouth1st runner-up at Miss America.
1978Terry KaiserPlymouthCompeted at Miss America.
1979Rickee FarrellNorth Manchester (North Central)Competed at Miss America.
1980Teri KardatzkeAndersonCompeted at Miss America.
1981Pam CarlburgPlymouth3rd runner-up at Miss America.
1982Ilona ConwayMadison (Hoosier Hills)Competed at Miss America.
1983Teri SchultzMadison (Hoosier Hills)Competed at Miss America.
1984Cynthia Sue YantisFort WayneCompeted at Miss America.
1985Laurie BroderickElkhartTop 10 and Preliminary Talent winner at Miss America.
1986Susan SailorElkhartCompeted at Miss America.
1987Sheila StephenMadison (Hoosier Hills)Non-finalist Talent Award at Miss America.
1988Joni McMechanIndianapolis (Central Indiana)Competed at Miss America.
1989Lisa WilliamsonMadison (Hoosier Hills)Competed at Miss America.
1990Brenda BassettKokomoCompeted at Miss America.
1991Kari HipsherHuntingtonCompeted at Miss America.
1992Shelli YoderElkhart2nd runner-up and Preliminary Swimsuit winner at Miss America.
1993Dayna BrewerIndianapolis (Capital City)Competed at Miss America.
1994Tiffany StormIndianapolis (Capital City)4th runner-up, Preliminary Swimsuit winner, and Bernie Wayne Scholarship at Miss America.
1995Becky GrayNorth Manchester (North Central)Competed at Miss America.
1996Shani NielsenAurora (Harvest Homecoming)Top 10, Preliminary Talent winner, and Bernie Wayne Award at Miss America.
1997Sara EngermanKendallville (Limberlost)Competed at Miss America.
1998Julianne HackneyVincennes (Northwest Territory)Top 10 at Miss America.
1999Kelly LloydIndianapolis (North Central)Albert A. Marks Jr. Interview Award at Miss America.
2000Betsy BobelPeru (Duneland)Competed at Miss America.
2001Allison HatcherIndianapolis (North Central)Top 20 at Miss America.
2002Tangra RiggleIndianapolis (North Central)Top 15 and Preliminary Talent winner at Miss America.
2003Bryn ChapmanBrownstown (South Central)Top 10 at Miss America.
2004Sarah WileyTerre Haute (Wabash Valley)Non-finalist Talent Award at Miss America.
2005Susan GuilkeyIndianapolis (North Central)Competed at Miss America.
2006Betsy UschkratBloomington (Indiana University)Competed at Miss America.
2007Nicole RashMuncie (Ball State University)1st runner-up at Miss America.
2008Katie StamGary (Duneland)Miss America 2009; Preliminary Swimsuit and Interview winner.
2009Nicole PollardChesterton (Duneland)Top 15 at Miss America.
2010Gabrielle ReedColumbus (Southern Heartland)Non-finalist Talent Award and MAO Community Service Award at Miss America.
2011Jackie JerleckiChesterton (Duneland)Preliminary Talent and Interview winner at Miss America.
2012MerrieBeth CoxChesterton (Duneland)Top 12 and Arts in Action Dance Award at Miss America.
2013Terrin ThomasBloomington (Indiana University)Preliminary Talent Award at Miss America.
2014Audra CasterlineKokomo (Hoosier Heartland)Non-finalist Talent Award at Miss America.
2015Morgan JacksonAurora (Harvest Homecoming)Multiple preliminary awards at Miss America.
2016Brianna DeCampIndianapolis (Metropolitan)Tap dance talent; competed at Miss America.
2017Haley BegayIndianapolis (Metropolitan)Multiple preliminary awards (Interview, Talent, Swimsuit); vocal performance at Miss America.
2018Lydia TremaineFort WayneTop 15 and multiple preliminary awards at Miss America.
2019Tiarra TaylorTerre Haute (Indiana State University)Competed at Miss America.
2020No titleholderN/ANo pageant held due to COVID-19 pandemic.
2021Braxton HiserLafayette (West Central)Vocal talent; competed via virtual format at Miss America.
2022Elizabeth HallalColumbus (Southern Heartland)Top 7 and multiple awards at Miss America.
2023Cydney BridgesFort Wayne2nd runner-up and Miss Congeniality at Miss America 2024.
2024Kalyn MelhamMuncieCompeted at Miss America 2025.
2025Kinley Shoemaker (age 21)FranklinLocal title: Miss Metropolitan; platform: Rise then Shine; to compete at Miss America 2026.

Notable alumni

Several former Miss Indiana titleholders have achieved prominence in entertainment, public service, and advocacy following their pageant experiences. , crowned Miss Indiana in 2008, became the first and only woman from the state to win the title in 2009, earning preliminary awards in swimsuit and competitions during the national pageant. She later pursued a career in communications and , authoring books on and serving as an emcee for various events while raising a family in . Nicole Rash, Miss Indiana 2007 and a Top 16 finalist at 2008, transitioned into acting with roles in films such as (2013) and television appearances, including performances on Alone at Midnight (2010). Representing , she was the first from that campus to win the state title and used her platform to promote arts education. Pat Patterson (later known as Kellee Patterson), the groundbreaking Miss Indiana 1971 as Miss Gary, made history as the first African American titleholder from the state and received the Special Talent Award at for her performance. She pursued a successful career as a vocalist, releasing albums like Maiden Voyage (1979) and performing internationally, while also working as an actress and dancer in Hollywood. Barbara Mougin (now Barbara Ellen Woods), Miss Indiana 1977, achieved Indiana's best non-winning placement as first runner-up at Miss America 1978, tying the state's record. Known for her vocal talent, she appeared on shows like The Bob Braun Show and briefly dated singer during her reign; she later married and focused on family life. Eileen Mary Smith, Miss Indiana 1965, earned second runner-up honors and the Talent Award at Miss America 1966 for her medley from , marking a significant early achievement for the pageant. A Ball State University student during her title year, she later contributed to media as a contributor and advocate for women's opportunities. Shelli Yoder, Miss Indiana 1992, placed as second runner-up and preliminary swimsuit winner at Miss America 1993. She later entered public service, serving as a Democratic member of the from 2017 to 2021 and running as the Democratic nominee for in 2012 and 2018, focusing on issues like education and .

References

  1. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/about/
  2. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/scholarships/
  3. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/history/
  4. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/local-pageants/
  5. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/our-sponsors/
  6. https://missutah.org/origins-of-the-social-impact-initiative/
  7. https://www.wane.com/news/local-news/miss-indiana-pageant-to-take-guidance-from-miss-america-changes/
  8. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/state-competition/
  9. https://www.zionsvillepac.org/
  10. https://www.pageantplanet.com/article/what-you-must-know-about-miss-america-rules-before-competing
  11. https://missamerica.org/2025/07/09/updatedage-2/
  12. https://els.uga.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/2025-MAO-Contract.pdf
  13. https://missamerica.org/signup/
  14. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/become-a-miss-contestant/
  15. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/director-manual/
  16. https://missamerica.org/competition-scoring/
  17. https://townepost.com/indiana/boonecounty/a-crowning-celebration-20-years-of-miss-indiana-in-zionsville/
  18. https://www.nytimes.com/1951/09/09/archives/utah-beauty-named-miss-america-1952.html
  19. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/indystar/name/ann-lasalle-obituary?id=48760659
  20. https://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/13/fashion/weddings/13ellen.html
  21. https://www.journalgazette.net/living/miss-indiana-named-second-runner-up-in-miss-america-2024-competition/article_6c6c9d1a-b349-11ee-93bf-87c954d26726.html
  22. https://www.huntington.edu/news/cydney-bridges-crowned-miss-indiana-2023
  23. https://www.wfft.com/news/miss-indiana-earns-2nd-runner-up-miss-congeniality-at-miss-america-competition/article_41dac46c-b3e6-11ee-bdd5-0fcaf7d7c647.html
  24. https://www.cardinalmediabsu.com/article/ball-state-grad-and-muncie-local-kalyn-melham-was-croindianawned-miss-indiana-20240902
  25. https://missindiana.org/public_html/index.php/meet-miss-indiana/
  26. https://dailyjournal.net/2025/06/30/franklin-woman-wins-miss-indiana-2025-pageant/
  27. https://people.com/celebrity/katie-stam-of-indiana-crowned-miss-america/
  28. https://www.indianaconnection.org/crowning-achievement/
  29. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3575859/
  30. https://store.greennoiserecords.com/products/patterson-kellee-maiden-voyage-new-lp
  31. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9147545/
  32. https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/106931383/
  33. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFCWmJKN4zk
  34. https://ballotpedia.org/Shelli_Yoder
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