Letter From The Director
It is an honor to celebrate my fifteenth year as Executive Director of the Mrs. New York America, Mrs. New York American, and Miss New York for America Strong Pageants! Each year, extraordinary women representing New York embark on a journey to capture the crown—an opportunity that could lead them to become the next Mrs. America, Mrs. American, Miss for America Strong, and even Mrs. World.
Having personally experienced the magic of this pageant system, I know firsthand how transformative the journey can be. As Mrs. Arizona America 2006, Mrs. America 2006, and Mrs. World 2007, my path was paved with perseverance and dedication. While it took more than one attempt to earn the Mrs. Arizona title, the experience and preparation shaped me in profound ways. Through this sisterhood, I’ve gained friendships that I will cherish for a lifetime. My reign opened doors to incredible opportunities—from serving as Honorary Chair for Race for the Cure in the fight against breast cancer to ringing the NASDAQ opening bell, to traveling across the globe to Malaysia, China, Mexico, Vietnam, and Russia.
Today, I proudly serve on the Board of Directors for the American Cancer Society’s Dallas Area, as a Committee Member and Team Leader for Making Strides, and I am honored to celebrate the upcoming Making Strides Walk this October. I warmly invite you all to join me in Dallas for this meaningful event.
While beauty is an essential part of this prestigious organization, it is equally important to cultivate a genuine connection to family, platform, and community. Every participant exemplifies the qualities of strength, integrity, and purpose—hallmarks of the Mrs. New York America, Mrs. New York American, and Miss New York for America Strong Systems. Their dedication enriches this organization, making it stronger with each passing year.
To our incredible titleholders:
- Mrs. New York America 2024, Kathy Lovett McKeever—Congratulations on an outstanding year! Your unwavering commitment to your platform, Step Up, Save Lives, Learn CPR, has inspired everyone around you. Wishing you, your husband Glenn, and your family countless blessings ahead.
- Mrs. New York American 2024, Victoria Wejko—Cheers to a remarkable year! Through your platform, You Are Not Alone, you have raised awareness, uplifted others, and made a lasting impact. Congratulations to you, your husband John, and your family—I look forward to witnessing your continued journey.
- Miss New York for America Strong, Candace Taylor—Your dedication to Empowering Women Through Ethical and Sustainable Fashion, championing environmental stewardship, and partnering with Best Buddies has been truly inspiring. Thank you for your hard work and for sharing your passion with the world. Wishing you, your mother Carole, and your sister Courtney all the best in the exciting chapters ahead.
To my incredible support system—Mom Lorraine DeNigris, Julie Andrecolich, Angela Huette, Lori Garvey, Sheila Strassburg, and Bridget Stiemer – I deeply appreciate your loyalty, hard work, friendship, and dedication.
To my beloved Husband Roy, parents Mom Lorraine and Dad Victor, Brother Vic, Sister-in-law Kimmie, Nephew Bryson, Niece Brynlee, and my late Grandmothers, Mary and Jean—each of you has played a role in making this pageant journey a reality. From the bottom of my heart, I love you all.
Elaine Marmel and her late husband David, founders of Mrs. America and Mrs. World, I am beyond grateful for the incredible adventures we have shared.
To my dear friends—Susanna, Holly, Kate S, Kate B, Kerry, Emily, Lavetta, Britt, Hil, Di, Kelly B, Kelly W, Jessica, Tracy, Nicole, Amy, Missy, the Mrs. America State Directors, and my Mrs. Arizona-America-World Sister Titleholders—thank you for your love, friendship, and continued support.
Finally, this celebration would not be possible without our Judges Panel, Former New York Queens, generous sponsors, and dedicated staff, and web-designer Mark, all of whom have come together to create an unforgettable experience. We are deeply grateful for your passion and commitment in supporting the dreams of the remarkable women who step into this pageant journey.
With Gratitude,