Shailey Ringenbach Visits Section 36!

A new visitor to Section 36! Shailey Ringenbach is passionate about improving mental health, has a love of marketing, and is the current Miss Arizona. I was thrilled she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. 

So, let's see what happens when Shailey Ringenbach visits Section 36! 

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Arizona crown?

Becoming Miss Arizona has been a dream of mine since I was 9 years old. I had countless supporters, family members, co-workers, and friends that came to watch me. We celebrated with some Papa John’s pizza and shared many fun stories from the week. 

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

I am ecstatic to compete at Miss America with incredible women from all over our nation! If the competition is held in Florida like the previous year, I am most nervous for the humidity, LOL! My hair never holds well when it’s humid outside; hence why I love Arizona.

What is something Tiffany Ticlo did as Miss Arizona that you would like to emulate?

Tiffany represented the state of Arizona incredibly well and she truly inspired me to compete this year. I would love to emulate her genuine love for the organization and sisterhood as she held multiple events for the titleholders to bond throughout the year. Tiffany will always been one of my biggest inspirations.

How did you select your community Service Initiative, “Share the Love: Improving Mental Health Through Pet Therapy”?

My community service initiative is very near and dear to my heart because I have always battled with anxiety. When I received my dog, Sparkles, she absolutely changed my life and I wanted to use her to help others. This led to us getting Nationally Certified as a Pet Therapy Team through Pet Partners. For years, we have been volunteering at events in the community and we even volunteer our time at Banner Hospice. 1 in 4 Arizona residents are struggling with anxiety and research shows that a 12 minute visit with a dog, lowers blood pressure and decreases anxiety more than being with another person or alone. Pet therapy proves to be extremely healing and I strive to share that message everyday.

You are currently studying digital marketing at ASU. What drew you to that field?

I am heading into my junior year at the Arizona State University and I am also a member of Barrett the Honors College. I was inspired to learn more about digital marketing because it is very relevant to our society and I love marketing. The Miss America Opportunity has taught me how to market myself and our program as a brand ambassador, this is valuable and I am ready to apply this to my future career.

What is your personal fitness routine?

The Miss Arizona Organization has an amazing fitness sponsor, Scott’s Training Systems. He has helped me create a nutrition plan and provides me with multiple personal training sessions throughout the week. I am beyond grateful for his mentorship and helping me look and feel my personal best!

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

I would be Snow White of course! I have such a love for animals and she does as well.

If you had an extra ticket to see the Red Sox play the Diamondbacks, who would you take with you? Why?

My family and I are huge fans of the Diamondbacks so this would be a tough choice. I would probably bring my Dad because he always supports me at my competitions and he absolutely loves sports. 

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

Every time I am at a sporting event I love to watch the Jumbotron. I think it would be hilarious to see my face up on that screen!

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That's definitely always my goal too!

As always, I want to thank Shailey 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 Shailey 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 Shailey! And, good luck!

Tiffany Ticlo Visits Section 36!

Nicole J Smith

Section 36 had another visitor! Tiffany Ticlo is passionate about STEAM, a talented singer, and the current Miss Arizona. 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 Tiffany Ticlo visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Arizona crown?

Becoming Miss Arizona has been a dream and goal that I’ve been working towards since I won my first local title at 15, so I have just been soaking in every moment since being crowned. To celebrate immediately after, my family went to In N Out for milkshakes!

What is something that Melody Pierce did as Miss Arizona that you would like to emulate or expand upon? 

Melody truly continued the Miss Arizona legacy of dedicating her year to service. One of my favorite events that she organized was a group session at a local food bank as food insecurity is a cause close to my heart. My mom grew up in a small village in Thailand where healthy, warm meals weren't always easily available. Though she was able to come to America to create a better life for herself, she never forgot what it was like to be without. She instilled the importance of giving back in her children, and from a young age I’ve volunteered at various food pantries. I look forward to expanding on what Melody started by hosting monthly sisterhood events at St. Vincent De Paul – preparing and serving meals to our low-income communities in Arizona. 

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

There isn’t anything I am particularly nervous about, but I am on the edge of my seat to find out where the competition will be this year! I am also excited to perform on the national stage! 

How did you select your STEAM social impact initiative?

As someone who grew up riddled with anxiety and insecurities, I found confidence and self-love through theater, dance, piano, and painting. When I later developed a passion for coding, I decided to pursue a Major in Computer Science and Minor in Music so that I’d have access to both outlets. With a newfound STEAM background, I’m steadfast in my belief that both science and the arts should be equally valued to encourage a healthy balance of critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. However, more than 80% of schools experience budget cuts, and STEAM programs are often the first to go. In an effort to provide support to students just like me who could emotionally and mentally benefit from these programs, I’ve dedicated the past seven years to creating outreach programs and partnering with youth centers.

What is your personal fitness routine?

I am thankful to be training with our Miss Arizona fitness sponsor, Scott’s Training Systems. In addition to working out in the gym multiple times a week, I also enjoy exercising at home and going for walks when the weather is below 100 degrees (which is rare during Arizona summers!)

Earlier this year you released your first single, Boxes”. What can you tell me about it?

Jenn Cady

Singing has always been one of my greatest passions. My family says I used to walk around the house singing Elvis songs when I was 2 years old. Last summer, I was able to write and record 3 original songs which are available on all streaming platforms: Boxes, Find Forever, and Elevate. All of my music revolves around mental health, more specifically overcoming anxiety and self-doubt. I share my story of struggling with feeling out of place, but finding comfort in music and performing. I hope that when people listen to my songs they can relate to the lyrics and recognize their self-worth.

You are currently studying Computer Science / Software Engineering at ASU. Where do you see that field taking you?

I fundamentally believe that I would not be who I am today — an engineering student on track to get her master’s degree debt-free — if not for the nearly $200,000 I’ve earned in cash and in-kind scholarships through the Miss Arizona Organization. I aspire to use my STEAM background to become a Spotify Developer. This career combines two of my passions, music and coding. I’ve even leveraged my experiences to build a mobile application for Arizona directors to utilize for recruitment and for businesses to recognize the reach of this organization. 

As a firm believer that our educators shape our next generation, I ultimately plan on becoming an engineering professor in hopes of inspiring more young women to enter this male-dominated field. 

If you had an extra ticket to see the Red Sox play the Diamondbacks, who would you take with you? Why?

I would take my dad! One of my earliest memories is going to a Diamondbacks game with my family when I was 4. And now, we always watch different sports events together when they’re on TV. 

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

I would love to sing the national anthem at a baseball game one day!

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An anthem performance just HAS to happen!

As always, I want to thank Tiffany 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 Tiffany 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. You should also go visit her artist page on Spotify and listen to all of her music! You're sure to really enjoy it!

Thanks again Tiffany, and good luck!

Melody Pierce Visits Section 36!

Photo: Jenn Cady

Section 36 had another visitor! Melody Pierce is passionate about eating disorder awareness, a talented dancer, and the current Miss Arizona. 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 Melody Pierce visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Arizona crown?

I got straight to work! This opportunity has been a long-time dream for me so even the night I won I started brainstorming and organizing my plan for my year ahead, I was so excited that I couldn't sleep! 

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

So far, it's been the true impact that Miss Arizona has, I think it's challenging to understand the full scope of this job from the outside looking in and now having the opportunity, I witness firsthand the hard work and impact that comes with the job. 

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

I'd not really nervous about anything because I have such a strong support system and foundation but I'm more so excited to live out this dream and celebrate every moment, I think it's going to be a really fun experience!

How did you select your social impact initiative, “S.T.E.P.S. Towards Eating Disorder Recovery and Awareness”?

I personally struggled with an eating disorder in my youth and was diagnosed at the age of 10 after the passing of my father. This led to a six-year battle and I am so thankful to be alive today and to be able to share my story so that others can have the resources and confidence to overcome this disease. 

What do you enjoy most about performing your talent on stage?

My talent is a tribute to my late father and I just think about celebrating him on stage the whole time and us dancing together and having fun. 

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

Oh gosh, this is a hard question- I'm tied between Mary Poppins, Doug from UP and (are we considering Star Wars characters Disney?) because if yes, Padme Amidala! 

You graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in journalism. What drew you to that field?

I love storytelling and helping local businesses get the recognition they deserve through the media. 

If you had an extra ticket to see a Red Sox - Diamondbacks game, who would you take with you? Why?

I would take my roommate, Kaelyn Buffard, she's a big baseball fan and we actually used to compete together in the Miss America Organization. We are actually headed to the Diamondbacks game tonight! 

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

I would love to throw the first pitch! Or in Arizona, the kids do a mustard, ketchup and relish bag race and I think that would be really fun! 

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Yup. That does sound like a lot of fun! 

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

As Melody continues her time as Miss Arizona, 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 Melody, and good luck!

Lindsey Roman Visits Section 36!

Photo Gage Brumbaugh

Section 36 had another visitor! Lindsey Roman is passionate about education, a talented singer, and the current Miss Granite Mountain. 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 Lindsey Roman visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Granite Mountain crown?

I’m a California girl at heart, so I went to In-n-Out! The next day I volunteered at an elementary school for the Flagstaff Literacy Center’s Raising Readers program.

What portion of the Miss Arizona competition are you most nervous about?

It would have to be talent because this will be my first time performing opera. I’ve been singing since the second grade but only practiced opera since October. I love my song choice though and I can’t wait to live in the moment!

What is something that Amber Barto is doing as Miss Arizona that you would want to emulate?

She has been at every event with the titleholders, and as a first-timer, this makes me feel so comfortable. She’s extremely connected with everyone in the organization and wants to make sure we have a great experience too, so I want to emulate that as well!

How did you select your social impact initiative, “L.E.A.R.N with Lindsey”?

My mom was an elementary school teacher and was involved in education throughout my childhood. She taught me the importance of reading and I’m incredibly thankful. My passion came when I found out that only 4 in 10 Arizona students read at grade level, so I wanted to take action. L.E.A.R.N. Stands for literacy education and resource network, and my focus is family literacy!

What do you enjoy most about performing your talent on stage?

I’ve always loved being on stage, and since I gave up performing in high school, MAO has given me that outlet to perform again. So, I will enjoy the opportunity to perform again and with a talent I’ve always dreamed of!

You’re currently studying graphic design and business at Northern Arizona University. What drew you to those fields?

Since learning how to code, I knew I wanted to pursue a

career in tech. I wanted to focus on my front end design skills with my degree, and it opened the door for a job with my university’s mobile app. As for the business side, I want to use these skills to round out my talents in design and give a launching point to a Product Management job. My experience so far has prepared me for incredible jobs after graduation.

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

Rapunzel all the way! Of course, without captivity. She’s a curious, sweet, brave character that I’ve looked up to forever. 

If you had an extra ticket to see a Cardinals - Diamondbacks game, who would you take with you? Why?

It will always be my dad. He gave me the love of the cardinals, taught me how to score, and took me to games whenever he could, so he will forever be my baseball partner.

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

Throwing the first pitch has always been on my bucket list, but I’d also love to see if I could shadow one of the official scorekeepers for a game! I’m so fascinated how everyone scores a game differently, so seeing scoring in its official way would be really neat.

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Shadowing the scorekeeper would definitely be a unique experience! 

As usual, I want to thank Lindsey 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 Arizona! It would be fantastic to have another Section 36 Forever wear that crown.

I'm sure you'd like to follow along with Lindsey during her journey as Miss Granite Mountain. You should be sure to check out her title's Instagram account and her organization's website. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on. 

Thanks again Lindsey, and good luck!

Amber Barto Visits Section 36!

Genie Bunton Photo

Section 36 had another visitor! Amber Barto is passionate about community service, involved with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network , and the current Miss Arizona. 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 Amber Barto visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Arizona crown?

Honestly, I celebrated first by eating some Raising Canes Chicken but then I actually just got straight to work on all the plans I wanted to initiate. 

 

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

It just reminded me to enjoy every moment because it was so incredible being back on the stage after so long. Especially after the year we just went through with the pandemic, I want to make sure I enjoy every second of this experience and this mindset will help me really make the most of my time at Miss America. 

 

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

I would really like to pair up with our major in-state universities to provide potential scholarships to the women who compete in Miss Arizona as well as increase participation by at least 25%. In addition, I want to help kids all over the state find the community service projects they are passionate about. 

Jenn Cady Photo

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Leadership Through Service?

Community service is something that has been integrated in my life and I have personally seen the benefits of volunteerism. After losing my mentor to Pancreatic Cancer when I was 13, I wanted to give back to the cause that took her from us and this helped me develop a deep passion for community service. When competing for Miss Arizona, I knew the legacy I wanted to leave behind was a lasting ripple effect of individuals discovering their passion for a particular cause or volunteer project so therefore it only seemed right that this would be my social impact initiative.

 

You’re heavily involved with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. What can you tell me about the organization, and your involvement?

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is a Nationwide organization that is working to be the go to organization for Pancreatic Cancer. Not only does it raise millions of dollars each year, but it funds its own research grants, launches major awareness campaigns, and offers services to patients all over the world. I got involved when I was 14 years old and lost my mentor to Pancreatic Cancer. I started small by just sitting on the committees for the Phoenix Affiliate, but now I have spent the past few years serving as the Communications Director where I oversee all media and marketing outreach. I am very thankful for this community and am happy to have PanCan in my life. 

 

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

It would absolutely be Cinderella. She has been my favorite princess from a young age and I truly think it would just be a dream to be her for a week.

 

What is your personal fitness routine?

We have a wonderful fitness sponsor in Arizona, Scott with Scott’s Training Systems, and I have been training with him since I was 14 years old. I go to him about 3-4 times a week and do cardio as well, and then add in hot yoga and dance throughout the week. 

 

If you had an extra ticket to see a Red Sox vs Diamondbacks baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

My mom’s side of the family is from Boston so I have a lot of Red Sox fans in my circle. My uncle and I are the most into Boston sports and he is a huge Red Sox fan so I would probably take him with me.

 

Is there a feature or activity during a Diamondbacks game at Chase Field that you’d especially like to experience?

I have always dreamed of throwing the first pitch at a home game and this is something I am hoping to do once as Miss Arizona.

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That would be quite the experience! 

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

As Amber continues her time as Miss Arizona, I encourage you to follow her title's Instagram and Facebook accounts. You should also check out the official Miss Arizona 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 Amber, and good luck!