Teacher Education Student Places Third in Miss America Pageant

Contest judges named Olivia Myers second runner up in the 88th annual Miss America Pageant. Myers, a History and Social Studies Education major, intends to pursue a career as a social studies teacher and educational policymaker. Nancy Langguth, associate field experience coordinator who had Myers in one of her classes, said. “Good things couldn’t have happened to a better person.”

Myers hopes to make a difference in this world through her strength of character and as Miss Iowa.

As Miss Iowa, Myers is using the opportunity to make others aware of the importance of education by promoting her platform, “Teaching Tolerance: Fostering a Just and Caring Culture from the Classroom Out.” “As a future educator, I truly believe that the classroom is one of the most powerful tools we have for cultivating a society that respects and appreciates the increasing diversity within our communities,” Myers said.

“My mission this year is to work beside schools, communities, and organizations to nurture a sense of tolerance among young Iowans—a way of thinking, feeling, and acting that empowers our youth to discover peace in their individuality, respect for those who are different, the capacity to discern humane values, and the courage to act upon them. “

She also serves as an ambassador for CHARACTER COUNTS!, the nation’s most widely implemented approach to character education because “every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to make positive choices.” she said. “I hope to inspire young people to reach their potential and to make a difference in the world—all through the strength of their character.” Langguth describes Myers as an “especially genuine” person who naturally collaborates well with other students. She said she expects Myers to go on to a successful career in education.

“She will be such a positive role model,” Langguth said. “She has so much to bring to the field of education.”