Cassie Donegan, the vibrant 28-year-old singer and actress, was officially crowned Miss America 2025 in a grand ceremony held at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida, on September 7. Her journey to the title began a few months earlier when she triumphed in the New York state pageant. With her reign now extending over six months, Donegan continues to embrace her role with enthusiasm and a deep passion for performing.
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Since taking on her responsibilities as Miss America, Donegan has revelled in a variety of opportunities that marry her love for the arts with her new platform. In an interview with PEOPLE, she reminisced about some of the standout moments of her reign, highlighting her appearance at the America 250 Florida Duel race at Daytona, where she performed the national anthem. “That experience was really, really cool,” she stated, expressing her excitement as a long-time NASCAR fan. “It was pretty out of this world, not going to lie,” she added, showcasing her infectious enthusiasm for both the sport and her role.
As Miss America, Donegan’s calendar is filled with high-profile events and philanthropic commitments typical of the title. Her adventures have taken her beyond traditional appearances; she described her spontaneous performance during a Super Bowl weekend party in San Francisco as another memorable highlight. “I sang spontaneously on the spot with the band,” she shared, revealing the unexpected joys of being a national titleholder. “Every day is different, which is really cool,” she noted.
Emphasising her outlook on the reign, Donegan explained that she approached the role with an open mind and minimal expectations. “From the beginning, I decided it was going to be an amazing year because I wanted it to be,” she told PEOPLE. This intentional mindset has allowed her to roll with the punches, resulting in what she describes as an unparalleled experience year. Her background in live theatre has certainly prepared her for the unpredictability that comes with the territory.
Despite the high-profile nature of her new role, Donegan finds comfort in the unwavering support from her family, friends, and fellow competitors within the Miss America organization. She eloquently articulated the collective effort that underpins her reign: “It takes a village,” she asserted, acknowledging the numerous individuals who have contributed to her journey. The encouragement she receives has been instrumental in making her experience fulfilling and joyous.
Throughout her reign so far, Donegan has often expressed her gratitude for the tangible love surrounding her, admitting that she is moved emotionally. “I cry every day in a good way as Miss America,” she confessed honestly, highlighting how impactful this experience has been on a personal level. Her openness about the emotional journey she has undergone reflects a genuine appreciation for the role.
Reflecting on her time as Miss America, she recognised the importance of maintaining a perspective focused on what really matters. “It’s about creating connections and inspiring others,” she remarked, recognizing her platform as an opportunity to drive positive change. Donegan is keenly aware of the influence she holds and is determined to use her voice for the betterment of her community and beyond.
In her capacity as Miss America, Donegan is poised to continue her growth not only as a performer but as an advocate for important causes. As her reign advances, the singer-turned-titleholder remains committed to making lasting impressions while exploring the many dimensions of her role. With a multitude of engagements lined up, Cassie Donegan is set to make the most of her time in the limelight, proving that her crown is a symbol of both achievement and responsibility.