DSU sponsors Miss America’s Outstanding Teen scholarship
July 28, 2021
Dakota State University is expanding its partnership with the Miss America Organization (MAO).
In 2019, Dakota State offered a Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences scholarship to a Miss America contestant. In 2021, a new scholarship will be offered in the 2021 Miss America’s Outstanding Teen competition, held the week of July 26 at Universal Studios Orlando.
The four-year award offered is equal to the value of the DSU Presidential Champion Scholarship ($20,000 total.) To be awarded the scholarship, the recipient must enroll in one of Dakota State’s technology-focused degrees:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Technology
- Computer Education
- Computer Game Design
- Computer Information Systems
- Computer Science
- Cyber Leadership and Intelligence
- Cyber Operations
- Network and Security Administration
This is part of $30 million of in-kind tuition scholarships and $100,000 in cash prizes available to contestants; also included is a $30,000 scholarship for the winner.
“I am proud my alma mater is partnering with the nation’s leading achievement program that builds on the scholastic achievement, accomplishments, and community involvement of young women,” said Shantel Krebs, Miss America Organization Board Chair. She is a 1998 graduate of Dakota State.
“Miss America’s Outstanding Teen provides educational scholarships for deserving young women and now because of Dakota State University’s generous scholarships, it will be a top collegiate choice for these future leaders,” Krebs said.
Dakota State will also have a part in the July competition. Amy Crissinger, interim vice president for Student Affairs, will be judging the top eight Teens in Action Community Service Social Impact portion of the competition. The winner will receive an additional $1,000 scholarship.
Founded in 2005, the role of Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Competition is to make a difference with high school and college-age students through social impact initiatives, and by advancing the goals and objectives of MAO, which are to build strong leaders and make a meaningful social impact on communities. Over $1.3 M in cash scholarships has been paid to 200 colleges and universities across the nation through Miss America’s Outstanding Teen.
South Dakota will be represented by Kianna Healy, 17, of Hartford, who will be attending USD in the fall. The current Miss America Outstanding Teen is Payton May of Vancouver, WA.
Competition judges are Natalie Ellis, co-founder, and CEO of BossBabe; Dolvett Quince, author and celebrity fitness trainer; Ethan John, former professional soccer player, and cancer survivor; Dr. Brittany Revell, CEO and co-founder/owner of ReKinected Physical Therapy; Jasmin Murray, vocalist, and fashion influencer.