Stephanie Finoti Visits Section 36!

It's time for another visitor to Section 36! Stephanie Finoti is passionate about STEM, is a talented dancer, and is the current Miss Ohio. I was honored she wanted to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. 

So, let's see what happens when Stephanie Finoti visits Section 36! 

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Ohio crown?

I celebrated my win by sleeping! I was incredibly sick during the competition and actually broke a fever the first night of prelims so some good rest was necessary for me to recover! Once I felt well-rested I was super excited to share the good news with my colleagues within my UPRISE internship at the University of Cincinnati, in which they surprised me with a pizza party and cupcakes to celebrate!

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

I’m most nervous about creating my Miss America gown! There are so many beautiful gowns to choose from I can’t pick just one! However, I know the amazing team at our sponsor, Henri’s, will help me design the perfect gown that best represents my energy and personality on the Miss America stage!

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

Throughout my year as Miss Ohio, my goal is to make every person in the rooms I enter feel as if they have the potential to make a difference in the world regardless of their age, background, ethnicity, or gender. Whether it be in the STEM field or not, I hope to help students from marginalized communities across Ohio reach their untapped potential!

How did you select your community Service Initiative, “That STEM Girl”?

As a first generation American and first generation college student, I faced many barriers when trying to achieve a higher education, specifically in the STEM field. I figured that when I didn’t have the resources or mentors I needed in my community, it was up to me to learn the skills that would help me reach my goals. Through this I developed a tool box that included building a professional portfolio, learning how to gain mentors through networking, and writing award winning scholarship essays which helped me afford my college tuition and gain valuable experience in the healthcare field as a nurse assistant. I now teach these skills to students through my non-profit organization, That STEM Girl, to help bring resources, representation, and recruitment into low-income and marginalized communities. 

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

My favorite part of dancing on-stage is when I’m able to connect with the audience by telling a story with both my facial expressions and body language. 

You are studying to become a pediatrician. What drew you to that field?

My mom was a neonatal nurse in Brazil so I’ve always admired that field by hearing her miraculous stories. However, what truly drew me to pediatrics  how I am continuously inspired by the resilience of pediatric patients who demonstrate strength through the most serious diagnosis. They show me that there is always some good in even the worst situations and motivate me to have a positive outlook in life. 

What is your personal fitness routine?

I don’t have as much of a personal fitness routine, it’s more of a lifestyle. Every week looks different for me in regards of my schedule and availability to go to the gym and I have never been a fan of diet culture. Instead of having a set diet and routine, I like to think mindfully about what I’m eating in regards to what nutrients I’m fueling my body with and try to take a step towards my personal fitness each day. Sometimes that means going to the gym for 2 hours but sometimes it only means taking the stairs during my 12 hour shifts at the hospital. No matter how small the effort, it is still a great contribution to my overall healthy lifestyle! 

If you had an extra ticket to see the Reds play the Guardians, who would you take with you? Why?

I would take my 11 year old little brother, Sean, who is an athlete himself! He always supports my endeavors whether it’s watching a pageant or supporting me at my appearances so it would be nice to treat him to an event that piques his interests! 

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

I have an upcoming appearance at a Reds game as the honorary captain, which I'm really looking forward to! With this role, I'll have the opportunity to talk to the players and coaches, and I'm eager to learn how they get into the right mindset before a game. I hope to gain some insights that will help me prepare for Miss America!

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That definitely sounds like an incredible experience!

As always, I want to thank Stephanie 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 amazing to have another Section 36 Forever wear that crown.

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

Thanks again Stephanie! And, good luck!

Charlee Royer Visits Section 36!

Section 36 had another visitor! Charlee Royer is passionate about kid's mental health, a talented dancer, and the current Miss Maple Grove's Teen. 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 Charlee Royer visits Section 36!

What made you decide to compete for the Miss Vermont’s Teen crown as Miss Maple Grove’s Teen? 
My first impression of the Miss America Scholarship Organization was from a TikTok. It was a local titleholder who was explaining how she was earning scholarships through Miss America. I sent the video to my mom and told her I wanted to look into it. A little research and a few phone calls later, I was a delegate for Miss Vermont’s Teen 2023. After winning over $1500 in scholarship money as first runner-up, I knew I would continue competing for Miss Vermont’s Teen. Although I originally started to compete for the Scholarships, I have grown to love representing the beautiful state of Vermont where I grew up. I strive to do so on a bigger platform. That’s why I’m competing again this year as Miss Maple Grove’s Teen. 

What is something that Ginger Ragaishis is doing as Miss Vermont’s Teen that you would like to emulate? 
Ginger is a big inspiration for me, especially with her social media presence. She does a fantastic job of creating quality posts that are both relevant and frequent. As a girl who grew up off of social media, posting regularly is something I continue to work on. I look at Miss Vermont’s Teen Instagram pretty regularly to see what Ginger is posting about and use it as inspiration for my posts. 

As a talented dancer, what do you enjoy about performing on stage? 
As a dancer, I have been performing for over 10 years of my life. Ever since I was young, I loved to make the audience feel something. Whether it was a smile on their faces, or occasionally tears, getting to influence the observer’s emotions had always been something I love. A fun fact, I wear my Red Sox Kid Nation Jersey, Pedroia #15 from 2013 to every dance recital! 

How did you select your CSI, “Beyond the Ribbon”? 
Beyond the Ribbon is a non-profit that works to support the

mental well-being of children affected by cancer. When I was 12 my mom was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of breast cancer. I found it extremely taxing to see her so sick, and having to take on new responsibilities to keep our household running was difficult. Whenever I could, I found ways to spend time with her that were not strenuous, such as playing cards or coloring. When I started Beyond the Ribbon, it was a way to show other kids that they aren’t alone and that even though having a family member with cancer is scary, there are people to support you. So, in each of the Beyond the Ribbon care boxes, there is a letter with my contact information and some quiet activities to do with your family.

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

If I were to be a Disney character for a week, I would be Marie from the Aristocats. Getting to be pampered and live the luxurious life of a cat sounds like a dream. Not to mention the adventures she goes on with her siblings and the alley cats. 

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

I have been going to Red Sox games with my family my whole life. My favorite part is getting to sing “Sweet Caroline” with the crowd. I think it is a great time, and always makes my family laugh. I’ve even been lucky enough to sit in Section 36 before!

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How lucky is she to have been able to sit in Section 36?!?.

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

I'm sure you'd like to follow along with Charlee during the time left in her her journey. You should be sure to check out her title's Instagram account. It's a great way to keep track of everything she has going on, and you'll be sure not to miss anything.  You should also check out her CSI's Amazon wishlist if you'd like to help your cause.

Thanks again Charlee, and good luck in the future!

Alexa Baisch Visits Section 36!

Photo: Stacie West

Section 36 had another visitor! Alexa Baisch is passionate about eliminating child trafficking, a talented dancer, and the current Miss Montana. 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 Alexa Baisch visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Montana crown?

Winning the title of Miss Montana was such a whirlwind! I was crowned on July 2nd so, I was able to celebrate my new title AND the 4th of July by appearing in a parade in my hometown followed by a BBQ with my friends. It was so special to be surrounded by supporters within my community and my friends and family. I can not think of a more perfect way to celebrate!

What has been the biggest surprise about your time as Miss Montana?

So far the biggest surprise has been how much support I have received from people all over the country! I have people reaching out to tell me congratulations and ask for autograph cards from all over the place! One of my largest sponsors is even located in Mississippi! The support and kindness I have received has been incredible and I am so grateful for it!

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

Each time I have competed for a title within the Miss Montana organization I learn something new! It is incredible how much progress I have made throughout my years in this program! I have improved so much and this year I was given more tips on how to grow and continue to improve in order to feel prepared for Miss America!

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Kids Matter: Eliminating Child Trafficking”?

One of my favorite parts of this organization is the opportunity to advocate for something you care about. During the pandemic some of my friends and I fell into the obsession with true crime podcasts. They constantly discussed cases that were thought to involve human trafficking and the exploitation of men, women, and children. It was exciting to listen to, but they always left me feeling like I needed to do something to help. The more I researched how scary this issue truly is the more I felt called to make a difference. That's how I chose "Kids Matter: Eliminating Child Trafficking". I am so excited to use my title to support organizations who are fighting against human trafficking, increase awareness and share preventative tactics to keep children safe, and help victims receive the help they need. 

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

I have been dancing since I was very young and performing is one of my favorite things to do! I love dancing, especially tap, and just being on stage brings me so much joy!

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

If I could be a Disney character for a week I think I would have to choose Aurora (Sleeping Beauty). I know I look more like Ariel but, I think I'd rather have three fairy godmothers to grant my wishes than a fish tale! 

You recently graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in commerce and business administration. Where do you see that degree taking you?

I hope to use my degree to pursue a career in consulting! I was able to work with some phenomenal companies throughout my time at The University of Alabama that inspired me to want to go into this field and help companies function at their highest potential!

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

My extra ticket would go to my younger sister! We love going to local legion baseball games together and supporting our friends that play! I also love any excuse I can get to spend time with her!

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

It has always been a dream of mine to throw the celebrity first pitch at a baseball game! Maybe I will add that to my Miss Montana bucket list!

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I hope she gets to cross that off her list! 

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

As Alexa continues her time as Miss Montana, I encourage you to check out her title's Website 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 Alexa, and good luck!

Madison Coryell Visits Section 36!

Photo By
Doug Hikawa Photography

Section 36 has another visitor! Madison Coryell is dancing her way to wellness, an Angels fan, and the current Miss Canyon Hills. I was so glad that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more!

So, let's see what happens when Madison Coryell visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Canyon Hills crown? 

This was my 10th Miss America local competition I’ve competed for and finally won my first title. I cried, I screamed, I was speechless and so excited for the future this title could take me to. Most of the ladies I competed with went out to celebrate with pizza and cake. My favorite pizza has pineapple on it, sorry. The day after the competition, I celebrated by planning out what I wanted to accomplish as Miss Canyon Hills.

What has surprised you the most about your time as Miss Canyon Hills? 

The one thing that has shocked me the most about being Miss Canyon Hills is the unlimited about of support from the other title holders all across the country. This pandemic has really helped us connect with each other and be able to do amazing things together. 

What aspect of the upcoming Miss California competition are you most nervous about?

The interview portion of the competition has always been the part I’ve struggled the most with. You never know what the judges are going to ask you but through the many competitions I’ve participated in, I’ve learned that they just want to get to know the woman in front of them. I am nervous for this portion but I am so excited to share who I am with the panel.

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Dance: The Path to Wellness”?

I started dancing in middle school and didn’t realize how important dance would become in my life. As a sophomore in high school, I was in honors classes, had a picture perfect memory, and life was as good as it could be. Half way through the first semester I got a concussion which created a chemical imbalance in my brain. This imbalance left me battling chronic anxiety and depression. A chemically based mental illness is very difficult to overcome because there were no situational adjustments I could make to work toward recovery. At this time, I was dancing roughly 20 hours a week. I started struggling in school, failed 3 classes through the remainder of my high school career and sometimes lost hope. I went to therapy and didn’t have much luck in healing my mental illness. Psychiatry did help but the medication I took began to be too much. Dance was the one thing that pushed me to get my day started because it was my outlet. Dance ended up being my therapy. When I started college I decided I didn’t need to be on medication any longer. I’m now cured of my anxiety and depression and I owe so much of my recovery to dance. I do not know what would have happened if I didn’t have dance in my life when I was struggling with my mental health. I created Dance: The Path to Wellness to promote dance as a form of therapy. Therapy is not a one size fits all and therapy can be found in so many places, not just in an office.

As a talented dancer, you’ve been able to dance in the Parades at Disney. What do you enjoy most about that experience?

The best part about performing in the parades at Disneyland

Photo By
Doug Hikawa Photography

would be the guests reactions. We have some guests that come to watch the parade almost daily and it’s so fun to see familiar faces. Of course I love my fellow cast members and dancing with them is always a joy but there is always that one child that makes eye contact a with you while your dancing and the look in their eyes is so inspiring. The hugs are also very heartwarming and something that I have missed significantly during this COVID-19 pandemic.

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

I would love to be Aurora because she’s always been my favorite princess since I was little. The poise, the hair, and the beautiful story will always have my heart.

As an Angels fan, do you have a favorite Mike Trout memory?

My favorite Mike Trout memory would have to be the first game I attended in long time when I saw a bunch of people wearing these funky hats with fish on them. It just made me so happy because that’s just how talented of a player he is and I think these hats are such a fun way to show their admiration of him.

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

I’d love to be able to sit behind home plate. There’s just something so special to be able to see up close the players passing through home and score a run! 

If you had an extra ticket to an Angels-Red Sox game, who would you bring with you? Why?

I would definitely bring my boyfriend because he’s grown up with the same love for the Angels that I had and it would be such a great time to experience together.

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That sounds like it would be a wonderful time!

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

As Madison continues her time as Miss Canyon Hills, I encourage you to check out her official Instagram account. It’s a great ways to keep track of everything she has going on!

I also definitely want to wish her the best of luck whenever she competes for the Miss California title. It would be wonderful to have the first Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Madison, and good luck!