Miss America Memories

By Haley Joy Tate

Miss America week went by in a blur, but two things stand out to me more than anything else.

One of the greatest blessings of my year as Miss Montana has been my relationship with my Miss Montana’s Teen. She is truly a ray of sunshine — someone who encourages everyone around her and brings so much joy wherever she goes. Walking through Miss America week together only strengthened what has become a genuine sisterhood, and I know without a doubt she’ll be a lifelong friend.

The other moment that stayed close to my heart was my Miss America gown. A week after I was crowned Miss Montana, a family friend offered to do any alterations I needed — free of charge. An hour later, she came back and offered to make my entire Miss America gown, asking only that I cover the cost of materials. Years earlier, I had been her daughter’s youth group mentor, which made the full-circle moment even sweeter.

The gown was finished the week I left for Miss America and was lovingly nicknamed the “Greek Goddess dress” by some of the other contestants. Designing my own gown for that stage was something I never imagined, and I’m incredibly grateful for the generosity and community that made it possible.

Miss America wasn’t just about the stage — it was about sisterhood, service, and being surrounded by people who show up in the most unexpected and meaningful ways.

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Haley Joy Tate is the current Miss Montana. You can follow her on her Instagram. 

This is her first guest blog for Section 36 Forevers.