Victoria Mozitis Visits Section 36!

Section 36 had another visitor! Victoria Mozitis is passionate about literacy, a talented performer, and the current Miss New Jersey. I was so excited that she wanted to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more.

So, let's see what happens when Victoria Mozitis visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss New Jersey crown?

The Miss New Jersey Education Foundation hosts the most beautiful Queens Reception every year after the crowning. I got to spend time with my family, mingle with everyone who attended and had a “first dance” with my dad. It was such a special night!

What is something Augostina Mallous did as Miss New Jersey that you would like to emulate?

Augie had this very specific goal throughout her year as Miss New Jersey: to never lose herself. I have that goal as well. Miss New Jersey is someone who all little girls should strive to be. How can they have that dream if she is not relatable and unapologetically herself? I don’t want Miss New Jersey to be some kind of “alter-ego” for me. I have strong opinions, I am musical, I am silly, and sometimes I require moments to check in on my mental health. Miss New Jersey is going to be that way as well. I want to blur the line; Augie did just that throughout her year and it was so admirable. 

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss New Jersey?

I am in the middle of writing a children’s book, and my goal is to get it published during my year as Miss New Jersey!

How did you select your Community Service Initiative, “#LEAP”?

My father took me to the library every week. My parents made storytelling an integral part of my life at a very young age, and that is what set me up for success: to become a Musical Theatre major in college, to become a professional actress, and eventually, to become Miss New Jersey. I want to give students the opportunity to dream, and the first step in doing so is to work to improve literacy!

You are a recent graduate of the Musical Theatre Program at Rider University. Where do you see those studies taking you?

It has always been my dream to become an actor on Broadway, and that will always remain true. That dream has broadened as I have also developed a passion for Arts Management, which I minored in in college. My goal is to use my degrees to not only pursue my passion for performing, but also use them to expand my Social Impact Initiative into a non-profit organization, become a professional casting director, and work for The Miss America Organization.

What is your personal fitness routine?

I am a dancer, so a lot of my fitness routine is centered around taking class regularly. I also go to the gym frequently, and I love going on runs (although I’m not very good at it!)

If you could play any role in a Disney Broadway show, which would you choose? Why?

I just played Belle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and I would play that role again in a heartbeat if given a chance. However, once The Princess Diaries inevitably makes its way to a Broadway stage, I must originate the role of Mia Thermopolis. I’ve found so much comfort in her as a character since becoming Miss New Jersey. I’m still working on navigating life as a twenty-something-year-old girl who was just given the opportunity of a lifetime to represent her state and a National Organization. I’m still naive to the whole thing. Her story tells just that. 

If you had an extra ticket to a Jersey Shore BlueClaws baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

I have never been to a BlueClaws game, but my brother Tommy has been to many! I would bring him, simply because I enjoy his presence and he enjoys baseball. 

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

I’ve always wanted to be the National Anthem Singer at a Phillies game. Attending Dollar Dog Night would be a close second. 

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I'm pretty excited about that book!

As always, I want to thank Victoria for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

I also want to wish her luck when she competes for Miss America! It would be fantastic to have another Section 36 Forever wear that crown.

I'm sure you'd like to follow along with Victoria during her journey. You should be sure to check out her title's Instagram account and website. You should also visit her personal Instagram account and website. They're all great ways to keep track of everything she has going on, and you'll be sure not to miss anything. 

Thanks again Victoria, and good luck!

Augostina Mallous Visits Section 36!

Carlos Velez Studios

Section 36 had another visitor! Augostina Mallous is passionate about stopping human trafficking, a talented dancer, and the current Miss New Jersey. I was thrilled that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. 

So, let's see what happens when Augostina Mallous visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss New Jersey crown?

I slept! For an entire day! Then, my hometown of Middle Township held a parade in my honor a few days after I returned from Atlantic City! My family and close friends came to my family’s diner after the parade to celebrate more. I am very blessed to have such amazing, loving people in my life! 

What is something that Alyssa Sullivan did as Miss New Jersey that you would like to emulate or expand upon?

Miss New Jersey has always been put on a pedestal; a woman that maybe not every person could relate to or connect with. Alyssa truly strived to change that image. She made Miss New Jersey a trailblazer and an influencer, while still showing that she is relatable and real. As the new Miss New Jersey, I plan to continue that and honor the legacy that Alyssa left. Miss New Jersey is an icon, but she’s also be the girl next door!

What did you learn about yourself at the Miss New Jersey competition that will help you at Miss America?

I learned SO many things about myself during the week. Placing high last year added tons of pressure for me this year, but I learned that I was able to overcome the doubts and pressure by staying focused on my goal and just being myself. There were times that I didn’t think I could do it and I would stress myself out; however, with some meditation and positive affirmations, I persevered and showed the judges who “Augie” is! 

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Stop the Traffic”?

I stumbled upon the statistic: human trafficking is the second most profitable, illegal industry in the world. This inspired me to do more research on trafficking, in which I discovered that it is prevalent in US and even in New Jersey. I was scared. Not only scared about the fact that anyone is susceptible to falling victim, but also by the lack of knowledge that I and so many others have about human trafficking. As a young woman in college who often travels alone, I wanted to take action. If I can just save one person by sharing information and making them aware of the issue, then that is the first step to eradicating trafficking as a whole. 

As a talented dancer, what do you enjoy most about performing your talent on stage?

I love every single thing about performing my passion for others. I think my favorite though, has to be hearing the audience clap after doing all of my fouetté turns!

You’re currently majoring in journalism. What drew you to that field?

There are so many stories in the world that need to be told. I discovered my love for writing at a young age, and so when it came time to decide where I was going to pursue higher education, I knew I wanted a school that had an excellent communications program in an area that had awesome connection-building opportunities. And that was Hofstra University for me! 

What is your personal fitness routine?

Growing up as a competitive dancer, I learned to love mental health and physical fitness at a young age. I exercise 4-5 days a week, in addition to dancing and waitressing (yes, serving tables at a diner is exercise)! I’m also a trained Zumba instructor, and I love to swim and taking long walks on the beach with my best friends! 

If you had an extra ticket to Somerset Patriots baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

My dad! He’s the big sports fan in the family, and is always watching games on his phone when he has the time. He works so hard every day at our family’s business, and I’d love to spend a day with him doing what he loves! 

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

I’d love to throw the first pitch at a game! I’ve seen former Miss NJ’s do it and I’ve always wanted to try! Hopefully my strength from hand standing will kick in, who knows?! I’m up for the challenge! 

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She definitely needs to do this! 

As always, I want to thank Augostina for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

As Augostina continues her time as Miss New Jersey, I encourage you to check out her title's website and social media like Facebook and Instagram. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on! 

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss America crown this winter. It would be wonderful to have another Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Augostina, and good luck!

Amy Phillips Visits Section 36!

Photo: Richard Krauss

Section 36 had another visitor! Amy Phillips is passionate about career readiness, a talented dancer, and the current Miss Cape May County Region. I was so excited that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more.

So, let's see what happens when Amy Phillips visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Cape May County Region crown?

Although I have my personal training certification, I also consider myself a cake-a-holic (it is all about balance, right?). I indulged in a delicious piece of cake at our Queens’ Reception following our crownings!

What did you learn about yourself at the Miss Cape May County Region competition that will help you at Miss New Jersey?

This year’s pageant theme was “Through the Years,” and we had to share what legacy we would want to leave behind through the years. After careful thought, I decided that I would want my legacy to be one of class and kindness. I am a big believer in handwritten thank you notes, firm handshakes, and making people feel important when I am speaking with them. Establishing this mindset at my local competition help me set my intentions in preparation for Miss New Jersey.

Do you have a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss Cape May County Region?

Photo: Joseph Ryan

I have several goals in mind! I would love to make my social impact initiative, Career Kickstart, more accessible during COVID through virtual classroom presentations, career coaching sessions, and media campaigns. I would also love to continue my clothing drive for “Dress for Success,” which is a non-profit that provides job interview clothes for underprivileged women. Serving my county as a great ambassador is my priority, whether that be through speaking engagements, service opportunities, or county events.

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Career Kickstart”?

Photo: Laura Goodreau

My high school guidance counselor asked me to host an assembly for rising juniors and seniors to ask questions about my college and career experiences. I was surprised to hear how unprepared students felt about their upcoming options, and with further research, I realized New Jersey does not have a mandatory career readiness curriculum for our K-12 students. I created my own curriculum to prepare students for the workforce where we learn topics such as résumé writing, interview techniques, the various pathways after high school, and how to turn passions into job choices. I have given over 50 presentations to thousands of students, and I can’t wait to increase those metrics. 

Photo: Richard Krauss

As a talented dancer, what do you enjoy most about performing on stage?

I have never entered a pageant without choreographing my own talent routine, and being able to perform my own work has to be my favorite part. I think there is something to be said for a candidate who not only has great technique and performance qualities, but who puts her heart into creating the piece she showcases as well. I was honored to win talent at my most recent local competition!

You’ve had the opportunity to work as a television reporter. What have you enjoyed from that experience?

Photo Aaron Lee

I loved my time meeting new people and hearing their incredible stories when I was an ABC and Fox News reporter in Georgia and Alabama! My favorite interview was with David Bellavia, the only living soldier from the Iraq War to receive the Medal of Honor. I was absolutely honored to learn from someone so prestigious, and to hear the details about the Second Battle of Fallujah.

If you could be a Disney Character for a week, who would you choose? Why?

Definitely Olaf! If you have ever seen Frozen, you know that this little snowman lights up the room with laughter and warmth. Like Olaf, I also love summer, and I think it would be neat to have my own personal flurry for a week!

What is your favorite part about attending a baseball game in person?

During my undergrad at Towson University, I had the opportunity to commentate and film various sporting events with the Towson Sports Network. I loved practicing my videography skills during Towson’s baseball games, and getting to interview the players and coaching staff after the games.

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

Our current Miss New Jersey, Alyssa Sullivan, had the opportunity to attend a South Jersey Field of Dreams baseball game over the summer. I would love to attend one of their games someday and throw out the opening pitch! The Field of Dreams is a baseball league for children with physical and cognitive disabilities.

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That sounds like it would be a wonderful experience!

As always, I want to thank Amy for visiting with us, and for sending along the wonderful pictures to go with the interview.

As Amy continues her time as Miss Cape May County Region, I encourage you to check out her official Instagram and Facebook account, as well as her title organization's Instagram. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on!

You should also check out the website for her SII, Career Kickstart, to learn more information about this great cause.

I also want to wish Amy luck when she competes for Miss New Jersey! It would be fantastic to have another Section 36 Forever wear that crown.

Thanks again Amy, and good luck!

Alyssa Sullivan Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has another visitor! Alyssa Sullivan is passionate about positively influencing youth, a talented singer, and the current Miss New Jersey. I was excited that she wanted to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more.

 
So, let's see what happens when Alyssa Sullivan visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss New Jersey crown?

I felt so much gratitude and shock at that moment. I also felt incredibly humbled. It just felt so real and it still feels surreal. Every day over the last few days that I’ve woken up I just have to remind myself that it actually happened and it’s just really exciting and has been the most humbling and rewarding experience in my life.

When the shock wore off I celebrated the moment with a quick bite of a Wawa hoagie (a true Jersey girl at heart.) What happened in the days that followed truly blew me away. I’ve always said that it takes a village to raise a child and my community is the most beautiful testament to that. It was unlike anything I can even put into words to see them rally together within 24 hours of my crowning and put together a parade in my honor. I’ve always been someone who is a big believer that you are a product of your environment. No matter what I’ve done throughout my life Middle Township has always been so supportive and so embracing of me and that has just always meant everything. I couldn’t have thought of a better way to begin my reign as Miss New Jersey than to ride through my town and get to be with all of the people who love me above all else.

You’re a former Miss NJ’s Outstanding teem, do you think that national experience will help you at Miss America?

Being Miss New Jersey's Outstanding Teen was and still is one of the greatest blessings and experiences in my life. Going into MAOT at 16 years old was certainly a whirlwind, but it was an experience and opportunity that truly shaped me into the person that I am today. As I now look ahead to competing at Miss America in December, it's exciting to know that I've competed at the national level before, but ultimately I'm a big believer that everything is in God's hands.

What part of the Miss America competition are you most nervous about?

When you compete for as long as I have to get to Miss America you go into it knowing that whatever does or doesn't happen there is just icing on top of the cake. Earning the job of Miss New Jersey and competing at Miss America is the dream come true.

On my final road to Miss New Jersey, I finally mastered the art of not overthinking. I allowed myself to be the authentic Alyssa. I realized that all the years before that I allowed my worry and fear of not becoming Miss New Jersey to cloud who I was was not the key to life or success.

With that being said, after learning this, I truly can't feel a bit of worry or nerves for Miss America. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. What more could I ask for?

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Peer Challenge Commit2Character”?

I chose Peer Challenge Commit2Character as a freshman in high school. My motivation to become an advocate for the program came before my involvement in the Miss America Organization. As a student, I felt that it was my duty to show other students that being "cool" wasn't defined by risky decisions. Peer Pressure was and is still at an all-time high and activities such as underage drinking, drug usage, and teen pregnancy are happening all too often. Teens need a positive influence and that’s why I wanted to promote this. Flash forward to today, it wasn’t long ago that I was standing in the shoes of these kids. It's so powerful for them to be able to see someone just like them that can show them that the path less traveled is a worthy one.

Often, students find it hard to say “no” or perhaps don’t realize the consequences of their actions. With Peer Challenge: Commit2Character, I share personal stories and examples to help kids see that the “right path” is the one they choose for themselves.

I want to emphasize to them the dangers of risk-taking behaviors and their ability to derail their futures. I speak with students about how they can be in the driver’s seat to their destiny and always lead a healthy lifestyle surrounded by positivity and people who raise them higher.

As a talented singer, what do you enjoy most about performing on stage?

That's so kind of you to say!

For me, it's getting to entertain an audience and take them out of the room to a different place with a different story. Truly nothing makes me light up more than being on the stage.

Music has played an integral role in my life. I began singing and dancing when I was 2-years-old and spent the majority of my educational journey pursuing my passion for musical theatre. I've continued my passion for music as a frequent headliner performer throughout the state of New Jersey. Most recently, I performed with America’s Got Talent Winner Landau Murphy Jr.

You’re currently working as a Production Coordinator with PHL17. What do you enjoy about that role?

I love bringing a voice to the voiceless. I'm a storyteller at heart and I love that PHL17 allows me to tell stories of those who can't tell them themselves. My love for journalism goes beyond being on camera. I treat every day as an opportunity to change the narrative that all journalists are unethical and constantly biased.

I'm so grateful to have earned the position at PHL17 so soon after graduating from Rowan. I love my colleagues and the community that I work in. My role at PHL has expanded and now I'm able to serve as a feature reporter. This is so exciting for me and brings me one step closer to my dream of working as a news anchor.

If you could be a Disney Character for a week, who would you choose? Why?

Ariel (The Little Mermaid) without a doubt. I am a Disney fanatic at heart. The Little Mermaid was my favorite movie as a little girl and I wanted to be just like Ariel. I even tried to comb my hair with a fork from time to time (embarrassing, I know.) I love that Ariel followed her heart. As a kid who loved to swim for hours in the pool, I can remember pretending that I was a mermaid. Disney always reminded me to let my imagination and my dreams collide.

If you had an extra ticket to a Somerset Patriots baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

I would take my Dad with me. My dad was a baseball player in high school and is a huge sports fan. He's taught my family everything that we know about the game of baseball. When the Phillies won the World Series he took us to Broad Street for the parade and it was a moment I will never forget.

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

I've been to a lot of baseball games in my life, but I have to say that I'd love to sing the National Anthem at a major or minor league baseball game. This would be such an exciting opportunity.

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That would be quite an experience! 

As always, I want to thank Alyssa for visiting with us, and for sending along the picture to go with the interview.

As Alyssa continues her time as Miss New Jersey, I encourage you to follow her title's Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook account. You can also check out the Miss New Jersey website. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on! 

 
I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss America crown this winter. It would be fantastic to have another section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Alyssa, and good luck!