SMITHFIELD, Va. — Cassie Donegan, a native of Smithfield, VA, has been crowned Miss America 2026, winning the title as Miss New York, representing her adopted state. Her hometown roots were confirmed by the Cumberland County Playhouse in Tennessee, where she performed in 2019.
From her website, Donegan describes herself: “Born and raised in Little Town Nowhere, VA, I am your typical southern girl who you can usually find running barefoot with her messy, curly hair flowing somewhere outside.”
Donegan, a professional musical theatre performer, impressed judges with her talent, poise, and dedication to arts education through her initiative, “Promoting Arts Education in Our School Systems.” She also serves as COO of the women-led childcare company Southern Sitter LLC…