Cassie Donegan has a new crown.

Miss New York was officially upgraded to Miss America 2026 Sept. 7 at the Orlando, Fla., ceremony, becoming the eighth person from The Empire State to wear the crown in the competition’s 104-year history.

“ Miss America has always been a powerful springboard for ambitious women to turn their dreams into reality,” Cassie said in a press release following her win Sept. 8. “I am honored to represent an organization that provides scholarships, resources, and a platform for women to lead—and I’m deeply grateful for the chance to bring that mission to life.”

Cassie, 27, wa s awarded over $70,000 in scholarships from the Miss America program from her win, which will, according to the press release, help her fund her undergraduate education and on her pur

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