SERVICE   This is the first and most important point on the crown to me. Service embodies moral ethical value and a thirst for world betterment. From working on my personal platform, “Promoting Character Education,” to volunteering with Children’s Miracle Network and many other incredible organizations, my service opportunities through the Outstanding Teen Program have given me so many humbling and touching experiences that have truly helped me build character and understand the greater meaning of life. I think it is really true, that the more you give, the more you receive. The crown and sash are merely keys to unlocking a door through which you can accomplish great things.  As Missouri’s Outstanding Teen, I plan to use this key to cross many thresholds and impact others for the better. Whether I’m wearing a dress and speaking to a large crowd, or sweatpants and playing with the children at a hospital, or jeans and boots picking up trash and planting trees, I know that the key will fit any occasion.

 

SCHOLARSHIP   None of my life accomplishments or future ambitions would, or could, be possible without an education. The Miss America Organization is one of the nation’s leading achievement programs and the world’s largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women. Last year, the Miss America Organization and its state and local organizations made available more than $45 million in cash and scholarship assistance. The Outstanding Teen Program promotes scholastic achievement, creative accomplishment, healthy living and community involvement for America’s teens. I think it is simply incredible that this non-profit organization recognizes young women who excel in these fields in a way that will help them succeed in the future. I alone have been awarded over $2,000 in scholarship money, as well as a four-year full ride scholarship to Troy University valued at $61,000. We are ambitious women who want to positively contribute to society, and I believe this program greatly helps us do that.

 

STYLE   A title holder is a role model to others and a spokesperson for the program. They are viewed by many and expected to exemplify poise and presence. To me, style is a self-expression and an impression. As a title holder, one way I am able to express myself is through style; and what a fun way to do so! I even designed my talent costume! Style is a big part of my life, and I view it beyond its appearance. I think that style can embody aspects of a persons success. It can be an evening gown and crystal earrings that displays one’s elegance, or a business suit and spectator heels as she walks into a meeting, whatever the occasion, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen has a dominating presence that commands others to notice.

 

SUCCESS   Everyone has their own definition of success. I define success in life as being a well-rounded and happy person. I define success in situations as being satisfied with my own outcome. Whether it’s the effort I put into something, what I gained from something, or the ending result, I define my own personal success as satisfaction. But I will tell you, I believe that the aspects of a teen’s life that the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Program promotes are the epitome of success and a well-rounded person. This program has pushed me to strive to be  academically achieved, creatively accomplished, healthy, and involved. I am so grateful for the experiences, relationships, and skills I have gained from being a part of this program. If I can contribute back by wearing the crown of Miss Missouri’s Outstanding Teen in a way that exemplifies the four points that it stands for, then that is success to me.

 

 - McKensie Garber

     Miss Missouri's Outstanding Teen 2011 & Miss Missouri 2015