Miss Alabama 2023: Meet 42 women competing for this year’s crown

Miss Alabama 2023: Meet 42 women competing for this year’s crown

Lindsay Fincher, Miss Alabama 2022, is nearing the end of her reign. She’ll crown a new winner on Saturday, July 1, at Samford University’s Wright Center in Birmingham.

Forty-two women are hoping to become the new Miss Alabama, ranging from Miss Appalachian Valley to Miss Wallace State Community College. Here’s a look at this year’s contestants.

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Mary Catherine Dulaney is competing as Miss Shelby County in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

MARY CATHERINE DULANEY, MISS SHELBY COUNTY

Age: 21.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Hospitality management.

Hometown: Ozark.

Talent: Ballet en pointe, “Man of La Mancha.”

Community Service Initiative: The Giving Well.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “In another life, I would have loved to be a professional ballet dancer! I decided to go a different route after dancing in a pre-professional ballet company in middle and high school, but I still love to practice my skill and perform on stage. One thing I love most about the Miss Alabama Organization is that it provides an opportunity for me to continue to dance.”

Alyssa Hurst, Miss Southern Union State Community College

Alyssa Hurst is competing as Miss Southern Union State Community College in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ALYSSA HURST, MISS SOUTHERN UNION STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Age: 20.

School: Southern Union State Community College.

Major: Elementary education.

Hometown: Lineville.

Talent: Dance, “Sinfonia in C major, RV 112” by Antonio Vivaldi.

Community Service Initiative: R.E.D.: Read Every Day.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I am an artist! I was first commissioned to create custom artwork at 8 years old!”

Alana Price, Miss Sylacauga

Alana Price is competing as Miss Sylacauga in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ALANA PRICE, MISS SYLACAUGA

Age: 18.

School: Samford University.

Major: Biology.

Hometown: Sylacauga.

Talent: Piano, “Good Golly, Miss Molly.”

Community Service Initiative: Hometown Helpings: A Focus on Food Insecurity.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have always described myself as having an old soul. In my free time, I’m assembling large jigsaw puzzles. A newer hobby of mine is sewing. Quilts have become my go-to crafting project.”

Jordan Carraway, Miss River City

Jordan Carraway is competing as Miss River City in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

JORDAN CARRAWAY, MISS RIVER CITY

Age: 22.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Industrial and systems engineering.

Hometown: Daphne.

Talent: Baton, “Rocket Man.”

Community Service Initiative: Space for a Better Tomorrow.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “Despite being a MASSIVE space nerd, I didn’t attend my first launch until I was 20 years old! I was invited by NASA and Lockheed Martin to watch the LUCY launch in October of 2021 and it was the most magical experience of my life!”

Aleya Gilley, Miss North Jefferson Area

Aleya Gilley is competing as Miss North Jefferson Area in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition.(Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ALEYA GILLEY, MISS NORTH JEFFERSON AREA

Age: 22.

School: University of North Alabama.

Major: Elementary education.

Hometown: Moody.

Talent: Vocal, “I Put a Spell on You.”

Community Service Initiative: Swab Your Cheek, Save a Life, “Be the Match.”

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have trained in safety and tactics with the SWAT team!”

Ashlyn Powers, Miss Mobile Bay

Ashlyn Powers is competing as Miss Mobile Bay in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ASHLYN POWERS, MISS MOBILE BAY

Age: 20.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Business.

Hometown: Fairhope.

Talent: Drums, “Wipeout.”

Community Service Initiative: Be the Power — Providing Power and Confidence to Individuals with Disabilities.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I’ve been playing the drums since the third grade, can recite the first 50 numbers of pi, and almost had a reality TV show about my family when I was younger!”

Chloe Yates, Miss Tuscaloosa

Chloe Yates is competing as Miss Tuscaloosa in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

CHLOE YATES, MISS TUSCALOOSA

Age: 19.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Interior design.

Hometown: Prospect, Kentucky.

Talent: Gymnastics, “Runaway Baby.”

Community Service Initiative: Special Olympics: Deleting the DIS in Disabled.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “Others may not know that I have created award-winning, unique Halloween costumes. My creativity and organizational skills were fueled at a young age as I entertained myself rearranging my room and focusing on every detail. Fortunately, these characteristics will serve me well as an interior designer.”

Ella Kate Nichols, Miss Tennessee Valley

Ella Kate Nichols is competing as Miss Tennessee Valley in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ELLA KATE NICHOLS, MISS TENNESSEE VALLEY

Age: 20.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Human development and family studies.

Hometown: Andalusia.

Talent: Vocal, “New York State of Mind.”

Community Service Initiative: Buckets of Smiles: Advocating for Children with Cancer.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I am actually a classically trained ballerina! Although I sing for my talent, I trained in ballet and other dance styles almost every day of the week from the time I was 2 1/2 years old until I graduated from high school.”

Karoline Copeland, Miss Auburn University

Karoline Copeland is competing as Miss Auburn University in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

KAROLINE COPELAND, MISS AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Age: 22.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Doctorate of veterinary medicine.

Hometown: Mobile.

Talent: Jazz dance, “It’s Oh So Quiet!”

Community Service Initiative: Let’s See Change.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have a passion for exploring the world which has led me across 23 states and 10 countries. While traveling, I love to participate in thrilling adventures such as scuba diving with sharks, skydiving and jumping from the highest commercial bungee jump in the world.”

Emee Baldwin, Miss Jefferson County

Emee Baldwin is competing as Miss Jefferson County in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

EMEE BALDWIN, MISS JEFFERSON COUNTY

Age: 23.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Doctorate in nursing practice.

Hometown: Houston, Alabama.

Talent: Gymnastics, “A Thousand Revelations.”

Community Service Initiative: Poppy’s Purpose: Advocating for Patient Rights.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I currently work as an RN at UAB’s Neonatal ICU. My unit holds a Guinness World Record for the youngest baby to be born and survive, born at just 21 weeks and one day!”

Abby Sosa, Miss Southern Hospitality

Abby Sosa is competing as Miss Southern Hospitality in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ABBY SOSA, MISS SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

Age: 19.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Cullman.

Talent: Dance, “Stone Cold.”

Community Service Initiative: Bridging the Gap.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I am Latina, and I grew up learning and living the two different cultures! I also love to work out late at night!”

Rylie Dewley, Miss Centennial

Rylie Dewley is competing as Miss Centennial in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

RYLIE DEWLEY, MISS CENTENNIAL

Age: 19.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Political science.

Hometown: Grand Blanc, Michigan.

Talent: Baton, “Let’s Get Loud.”

Community Service Initiative: Start Heart Smart.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I am an avid traveler. I have been to 30 states plus the District of Columbia.”

Lydia Fisher, Miss Covered Bridge

Lydia Fisher is competing as Miss Covered Bridge in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

LYDIA FISHER, MISS COVERED BRIDGE

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Biology.

Hometown: Wapello, Iowa.

Talent: Tap dance, “I’m Gonna Live ‘Til I Die.”

Community Service Initiative: Educating the Voters of Tomorrow.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “As an aspiring cardiovascular surgeon, I also have hopes of holding a role as a political figure one day. Whether at the state or local level, I hope to one day not only serve my patients but also my community as an active constituent and leader for the people.”

Emma Terry, Miss University of Alabama at Birmingham

Emma Terry is competing as Miss UAB in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

EMMA TERRY, MISS UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Accounting.

Hometown: Leeds.

Talent: Ballet en pointe, “Rhapsody in Blue.”

Community Service Initiative: Stomping Out ALS One Step at a Time.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “Even though I was born in 2002, I am a child of the ‘70s and ‘80s! I was raised on the Eagles, Van Halen and Stevie Nicks!”

Ibby Dickson, Miss University of Alabama

Ibby Dickson is competing as Miss University of Alabama in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

IBBY DICKSON, MISS UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

Age: 22.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: News media/political science.

Hometown: Sylacauga.

Talent: Vocal, “Somewhere.”

Community Service Initiative: Mentoring Matters.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “My camera is an essential packing item wherever I go. I love capturing special moments of my friends and family, and helping others capture their memories through photographing graduation portraits, engagement pictures and ceremonies.”

Jayla Duncan, Miss Iron City

Jayla Duncan is competing as Miss Iron City in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

JAYLA DUNCAN, MISS IRON CITY

Age: 19.

School: Samford University.

Major: Journalism/mass communications.

Hometown: Childersburg.

Talent: Tap dance, “Land of 1000 Dances.”

Community Service Initiative: Jayla’s Justice: An Anti-Bullying Campaign.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I participated in a number of solo and team archery competitions as a competitive archer.”

Audrey Fuller, Miss Wallace State Community College

Audrey Fuller is competing as Miss Wallace State Community College in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

AUDREY FULLER, MISS WALLACE STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Age: 19.

School: Wallace State Community College.

Major: Business management.

Hometown: Oneonta.

Talent: Piano, “Great Balls of Fire.”

Community Service Initiative: Hometown Hunger: The Fight Against It.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I intend to own my own pageant dress store! I am happy to continue a lifelong dream. I feel right at home surrounded by all of these wonderful women and dresses!”

Madeline Rigdon, Miss Cotton State

Madeline Rigdon is competing as Miss Cotton State in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

MADELINE RIGDON, MISS COTTON STATE

Age: 23.

School: Auburn University graduate.

Major: Elementary education.

Hometown: Birmingham.

Talent: Tap dance, “Boogie Wonderland.”

Community Service Initiative: LOVE for Literacy.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I was on the Tiger Eyes auxiliary for the Auburn University Marching Band. For two years, I was so blessed to live out my childhood dream of jogging out of the Jordan Hare tunnel and performing on Pat Dye Field every weekend alongside my favorite tiger, Aubie! I was even awarded ‘Most Obsessed with Aubie’ in my sorority. War Eagle!”

Valerie Ogle, Miss Autauga County Fair

Valerie Ogle is competing as Miss Autauga County Fair in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

VALERIE OGLE, MISS AUTAUGA COUNTY FAIR

Age: 21.

School: Samford University, McWhorter School of Pharmacy.

Major: Pharmacy.

Hometown: Marbury.

Talent: Ballet en pointe, “Overture from Phantom of the Opera.”

Community Service Initiative: Smiles for Miles: The Pediatric Cancer Journey.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I can say all 66 books of the Bible in less than 20 seconds. I can sing the alphabet in three languages. I am a graduate student at 21 majoring in pharmacy. I am the oldest of five siblings.”

Hannah Adams, Miss Birmingham

Hannah Adams is competing as Miss Birmingham in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

HANNAH ADAMS, MISS BIRMINGHAM

Age: 19.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Political science/public relations.

Hometown: Birmingham.

Talent: Contemporary ballet en pointe, “Last Dance.”

Community Service Initiative: Hannah’s Hope: Finding a Cure for Pediatric Cancer.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I am an avid outdoorswoman –snow skiing on black diamond slopes in Grand Targhee, hiking trails in Oak Mountain (State Park), biking 50 miles across the Grand Canyon, running Disney half-marathons, whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, surfing the waves of Daytona Beach and swimming with wild stingrays in Grand Cayman. I love visiting new places with my family and finding outdoor adventures to explore. Next up on my bucket list is to go skydiving!”

Mary-Mychal O'Rourke, Miss Coastal Alabama

Mary-Mychal O’Rourke is competing as Miss Coastal Alabama in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

MARY-MYCHAL O’ROURKE, MISS COASTAL ALABAMA

Age: 21.

School: Coastal Alabama Community College.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Spanish Fort.

Talent: Flag routine, “Feelin’ Good.”

Community Service Initiative: “Life Blood” — Blood Donation.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have an O blood type which means that I can donate blood to anyone! I have been a blood donor since I was 16 years old and continue to donate every 56 days!”

Jasmyn Cornell, Miss Huntsville

Jasmyn Cornell is competing as Miss Huntsville in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

JASMYN CORNELL, MISS HUNTSVILLE

Age: 27.

School: Georgia Southern University graduate.

Major: Theater/journalism.

Hometown: Huntsville.

Talent: Vocal, “Holding Out for a Hero.”

Community Service Initiative: EMBODY: Celebrating Body Positivity and Inclusivity.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “Other people would be surprised to know that I can mimic the voices of some country music singers, including Lee Ann Womack. Also, I served as a background actress for the movie ‘Selma’ and acted alongside Oprah Winfrey.”

Lauren Vance, Miss University of North Alabama

Lauren Vance is competing as Miss University of North Alabama in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

LAUREN VANCE, MISS UNIVERSITY OF NORTH ALABAMA

Age: 20.

School: University of North Alabama.

Major: Professional biochemistry.

Hometown: Muscle Shoals.

Talent: Piano, “Valse Dramatico.”

Community Service Initiative: The Two-Hour Challenge.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “Being the oldest sibling with four younger brothers, I have mastered the art of patience and leading by example. Over the years, I have spent countless hours on a baseball field cheering them on, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!”

Lily Grace Vernon, Miss Jacksonville State University

Lily Grace Vernon is competing as Miss Jacksonville State University in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

LILY GRACE VERNON, MISS JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY

Age: 21.

School: Jacksonville State University.

Major: Secondary education/English.

Hometown: Jacksonville.

Talent: Vocal, “Don’t Rain on My Parade.”

Community Service Initiative: STARS: Special, Talented and Remarkable Students.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have played the alto saxophone since I was 12 years old. I marched in my high school marching band and I was drum major for two years. These experiences taught me so much about leadership and teamwork.”

Mary-Coker Green, Miss Hoover

Mary-Coker Green is competing as Miss Hoover in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

MARY-COKER GREEN, MISS HOOVER

Age: 20.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Agriculture economics.

Hometown: Citronelle.

Talent: Fiddle, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”

Community Service Initiative: Flip the Switch.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “When I was in middle school, I was represented by a talent agency in Nashville. I once got a call for the lead role in a major motion picture … and I turned it down!”

Abbie Stockard, Miss Trussville

Abbie Stockard is competing as Miss Trussville in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ABBIE STOCKARD, MISS TRUSSVILLE

Age: 20.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Birmingham.

Talent: Contemporary dance, “You Say.”

Community Service Initiative: Be the Change — Find a Cure: Cystic Fibrosis Awareness.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have a twin brother named Bradley. When we were younger, we used to speak to each other in our own language. We are both students at Auburn University and will be attending nursing school together in the fall. He specializes in annoying me, but I love and adore him.”

Anna Grace Deason, Miss Jubilee

Anna Grace Deason is competing as Miss Jubilee in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ANNA GRACE DEASON, MISS JUBILEE

Age: 19.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Biomedical sciences.

Hometown: Millbrook.

Talent: Vocal, “Never Enough.”

Community Service Initiative: Anna’s Hope.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have hosted church block parties in four sttes. I have been involved as a member of Millbrook Baptist Church since I was born and went on my first mission trip when I was 4 years old. I have traveled to Louisiana, Maryland and Kansas to support growing churches and spread the love of God.”

Sydnee Cantley, Miss Gulf Coast

Sydnee Cantley is competing as Miss Gulf Coast in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

SYDNEE CANTLEY, MISS GULF COAST

Age: 18.

School: University of South Alabama.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Daphne.

Talent: Baton, “Amazing Grace.”

Community Service Initiative: Adolescent Wellness Checkups.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I am adopted!”

Ashley Gattis, Miss Marshall County

Ashley Gattis is competing as Miss Marshall County in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ASHLEY GATTIS, MISS MARSHALL COUNTY

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Nursing.

Hometown: Arab.

Talent: Tap dance, “Don’t Stop Me Now.”

Community Service Initiative: Giver of Blood, Giver of Life.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I’ve recently developed an interest in sign language. I have been learning with a friend at my church and been part of a group that has signed songs during church service.”

Dominique Verville, Miss Historic Springville

Dominique Verville is competing as Miss Historic Springville in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

DOMINIQUE VERVILLE, MISS HISTORIC SPRINGVILLE

Age: 20.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Pro-flight and finance.

Hometown: Montgomery.

Talent: Lyrical dance, “You Are the Reason.”

Community Service Initiative: Heart for Heroes: Serving Alabama’s Veterans.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I am a dual citizen and lived in Canada before moving to Alabama!”

Abigail Grantham, Miss Troy University

Abigail Grantham is competing as Miss Troy University in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ABIGAIL GRANTHAM, MISS TROY UNIVERSITY

Age: 21.

School: Troy University.

Major: Elementary collaborative education.

Hometown: Donalsonville, Georgia.

Talent: Vocal, “Don’t You Remember.”

Community Service Initiative: Make-A-Wish Foundation.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “Before my senior year of high school, I won two state championship titles in singing! I would have competed for a third, but state competition was not held due to the pandemic.”

Chailyn Riley, Miss Phenix City

Chailyn Riley is competing as Miss Phenix City in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

CHAILYN RILEY, MISS PHENIX CITY

Age: 18.

School: Auburn University.

Major: English/political science.

Hometown: Alabaster.

Talent: Lyrical dance, “Hold my Hand.”

Community Service Initiative: Legacy of Hope — Organ Donation.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I carry a bottle of soy sauce around in my car. Yes, you read that right. As someone who is always on the go, Publix sushi is one of my favorite quick meals. There is never enough soy sauce in the container the sushi comes in, so I always have extra with me!”

Lindsey Wood, Miss Appalachian Valley

Lindsey Wood is competing as Miss Appalachian Valley in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

LINDSEY WOOD, MISS APPALACHIAN VALLEY

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Biological sciences.

Hometown: Thorsby.

Talent: Musical theater vocal, “I Enjoy Being a Girl.”

Community Service Initiative: Bows That Bless.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “During the COVID-19 pandemic, I taught myself how to play the guitar! Is is now one of my favorite pastimes and a fun way to take a break from studying!”

Chandler Mordecai, Miss Hamilton

Chandler Mordecai is competing as Miss Hamilton in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

CHANDLER MORDECAI, MISS HAMILTON

Age: 26.

School: University of Florida graduate school.

Major: PhD in English.

Hometown: Winfield.

Talent: Clogging, “Hey Pachuco.”

Community Service Initiative: Victory Over Domestic Violence.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I teach undergraduate college courses! As a graduate assistant instructor at the University of Florida, I have had the opportunity to teach a wide variety of courses, including Argument and Persuasion, Survey of World Literature, Survey of British Literature and a self-designed course entitled Writing About Myth, Media and Memory.”

Emma Wright, Miss Leeds Area

Emma Wright is competing as Miss Leeds Area in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

EMMA WRIGHT, MISS LEEDS AREA

Age: 22.

School: University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Major: Biomedical sciences.

Hometown: Blountsville.

Talent: Vocal, “Shallow.”

Community Service Initiative: Did You Know?

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I have been a professional musician for 13 years, touring with my family band, County Road 26.”

Olivia Smith, Miss Heart of Dixie

Olivia Smith is competing as Miss Heart of Dixie in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

OLIVIA SMITH, MISS HEART OF DIXIE

Age: 20.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Communication studies.

Hometown: Birmingham.

Talent: Baton twirling, “Journey Medley.”

Community Service Initiative: The Adoption Option.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I was a participant in the marching band for six years where I marched the trumpet, was on color guard, was the feature twirler and on the majorette line.”

Brianna Burrell, Miss Baldwin County

Brianna Burrell is competing as Miss Baldwin County in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

BRIANNA BURRELL, MISS BALDWIN COUNTY

Age: 25.

School: University of South Alabama graduate.

Major: Political science.

Hometown: Mobile.

Talent: Vocal, “Alabaster Box.”

Community Service Initiative: SAVE-A-STEM: STEM engagement for students of color and underfunded schools.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I’m an avid cooker! Cooking is a fun intersection of science and culinary arts that activates my brain and delights my taste buds! My favorite dish to cook is anything involving seafood!”

Zoie McGuyer, Miss Walker County

Zoie McGuyer is competing as Miss Walker County in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ZOIE MCGUYER, MISS BALDWIN COUNTY

Age: 20.

School: Troy University.

Major: Broadcast journalism.

Hometown: Florence.

Talent: Tap dance, “Baby, I’m a Star.”

Community Service Initiative: Saving Grace: We Hear You.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I was once extremely afraid of dogs, caused by my birth mother. On Christmas of 2018, my parents gifted me my therapy dog named Roxy. I finally understood what unconditional love felt like and was never afraid of dogs again.”

McKenzie Gay, Miss Hidden River

McKenzie Gay is competing as Miss Hidden River in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

MCKENZIE GAY, MISS HIDDEN RIVER

Age: 22.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Communication.

Hometown: Woodland.

Talent: Lyrical dance, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody.”

Community Service Initiative: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made: Autism Spectrum Disorder.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “The agriculture industry has a special place in my heart! I grew up on a cattle farm with cows in my backyard, yet I refused to even touch dirt, much less the animals, as a younger girl. Coincidentally, I am now pursuing a minor in agribusiness and looking forward to a career as a woman in agriculture.”

Mikella Anderson, Miss Gardendale Magnolia Festival

Mikella Anderson is competing as Miss Gardendale Magnolia Festival in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

MIKELLA ANDERSON, MISS GARDENDALE MAGNOLIA FESTIVAL

Age: 19.

School: Auburn University.

Major: Genetics and pre-med.

Hometown: Prattville.

Talent: Ballet en pointe, “The Little Mermaid.”

Community Service Initiative: Color for a Cure: A Beautiful End to Diabetes.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “I love to cook! I like making up my own recipes in the kitchen!”

Alexis Sartin, Miss Cullman County Fair

Alexis Sartin is competing as Miss Cullman County Fair in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

ALEXIS SARTIN, MISS CULLMAN COUNTY FAIR

Age: 18.

School: Ramp School of Ministry.

Major: Worship ministry.

Hometown: Vinemont.

Talent: Vocal, “How Great Thou Art.”

Community Service Initiative: You Are Enough.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “One thing that most people don’t know about me is that I have almost 10 years of experience in martial arts.”

Marissa Luna, Miss Cahaba Valley

Marissa Luna is competing as Miss Cahaba Valley in the 2023 Miss Alabama competition. (Courtesy of Miss Alabama Organization)

MARISSA LUNA, MISS CAHABA VALLEY

Age: 19.

School: University of Alabama.

Major: Business.

Hometown: Birmingham.

Talent: Vocal, “A Piece of Sky.”

Community Service Initiative: More Than Meets the Eye.

What is something about you that other people may not know? “Growing up, my biggest dream and aspiration was to be a prima ballerina and at the age of 15 I was accepted into ASFA (Alabama School of Fine Arts) for pointe and ballet. Shortly after, I ended up discovering my love for singing and music, and then continued to change my goals and focus on a career as a recording artist/performer and songwriter. There will always be a place in my heart for dancing and ballet, but I am incredibly grateful and happy to say I will be releasing my first EP this year.”

IF YOU GO:

The Miss Alabama 2023 competition is set for June 28-July 1 at the Samford University’s Wright Center, 872 Montague Drive in Birmingham. Preliminary competitions are set for Wednesday through Friday, June 28-30, at 7 p.m. The finals are scheduled for Saturday, July 1, at 7 p.m.

Single tickets are $45-$55 Wednesday through Friday, $63-$75 on Saturday. Season tickets (for all four nights) are $105-$145. Visit the Miss Alabama website or call 205-871-6276 for more info.