SMITHFIELD, Va. — Cassie Donegan, a native of Smithfield, VA, has been crowned Miss America 2026, winning the title as Miss New York, representing her adopted state. Her hometown roots were confirmed by Smithfield Little Theatre.

"We are so proud of Cassie and honored to have her as an SLT alumni," the theater posted on Facebook. "Smithfield Little Theatre is such a resource to the community and ... sometimes a path to Miss America."

From her website, Donegan describes herself: “Born and raised in Little Town Nowhere, VA, I am your typical southern girl who you can usually find running barefoot with her messy, curly hair flowing somewhere outside.”

"Miss America has always been a powerful springboard for ambitious women to turn their dreams into reality," Cassie shared. "I am honored to

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