ForeverMissAmerica

In 2020, the Miss America family lost two incredible women and trailblazers. Phyllis George, Miss America 1971, and Leanza Cornett, Miss America 1993, were loved and celebrated by many. We honor their memory by continuing the legacy of scholarship and empowerment for women in their name.

Phyllis George, Miss America 1971, was a businesswoman, actress, and female sportscasting pioneer. In 1975, George was hired as a reporter and co-host of the CBS Sports pre-show The NFL Today, becoming one of the first women to hold an on-air position in national televised sports broadcasting. Additionally, Phyllis was a mother of two, the former first lady of Kentucky, and a servant to her community.

Miss America 1993 Leanza Cornett became the first woman in the organization’s history to advocate for AIDs research and awareness on a national scale. During a time when the topic was taboo, Leanza had the courage to lead a conversation around the issue for those who needed it most. Leanza was the mother of two boys, a decorated television host, and an award-winning entertainer.

The Miss America Foundation wishes to honor the life and legacy of Phyllis George and Leanza Cornett through the Forever Miss America Scholarship Fund. Your donation to the Miss America Foundation will not only recognize the impact of these two amazing women, but will also inspire the next generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps. Please consider contributing today.

About the Miss America Foundation: The Miss America Foundation (MAF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that empowers women through career resources and educational scholarships. In addition to awards for women competing in the Miss America program, the MAF offers scholarships to women in the categories of medicine, business, STEM, military service, equity and justice work, social impact, athletics, the performing arts, and more.