Meet The 2011-2012 National American Miss Teen Raven Delk!

Tiffany: How did you get involved in National American Miss?

Raven: In 2005, I received a brochure in the mail, and I begged my parents to let me participate! I didn’t actually compete until 2010. A close friend competed and spoke so highly of the program that my parents agreed to attend an open call. We were very impressed. I competed last year and I fell in love with the program!

Tiffany: How did you prepare for the National Pageant?

Raven: I practiced, Practiced, and PRACTICED. I started by watching National American Miss YouTube videos and videos from Miss America. I wanted to walk correctly, so I walked around the house in my heels and had my parents videotape me so that I could see myself and what I needed to change, such as my posture and the speed of my walk. I spent a good three hours writing my personal intro. I kept revising it until I felt like it was perfect. Then I practiced it in front of my mirror with a hairbrush as my microphone. The best practice for interview was being able to meet and have conversations with several adults in my first three months as Miss California. I was able to meet with government officials and writers for local newspapers, and like the judges at Nationals, they asked some excellent questions, so that was great preparation. Finally, I spent hours gluing the little jewels on my formal gown, but I love sparkles and I bedazzle everything, so that was actually pretty fun!

 Tiffany: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Raven: The best advice that I have ever received is that if I work hard and follow God then everything else will fall into place. During times like finals week in school or even at a pageant, it is so easy to get stressed or anxious, but I try to remember that God has a plan for my life, and that it’s okay to not know what the future holds because the One who holds my future loves me.

Tiffany: What quote, motto or scripture best describes you?

Raven: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" Proverbs 3:5

Tiffany: What are your plans for the future?

Raven: My future plans include graduating from high school with a 4.0, going to college, and hopefully becoming a news anchor or talk show host. I hope to be happy and be a leader and example to people wherever I go. I also hope to touch the lives of others.

 

Tiffany: What activities are you involved in?

Raven: I am involved in a lot of activities! I am captain of my school’s cheer team, and I love cheering on the Amador Valley Dons every Friday night at the games. I am also a member of my school’s Chamber Choir, which is a great experience because I love music. I am Vice President of my Sophomore Class, and I am on the Fashion Board at Nordstrom’s. At my church, I am on the worship team and assist in the children’s ministry.

Tiffany: What do you like to do for fun?

Raven: I enjoy spending time with my family. I am blessed with a mom, a dad, and a 5-year-old brother named Ryan. Of course, like any other teenager, I also love texting and going on Facebook! I also enjoy traveling.

Tiffany: What is one item you can’t live without?

Raven: The item I can’t live without is definitely my Bible, but in second place is my IPhone!

Tiffany: Who is your role model?

Raven: My mother is my role model. She inspires me every day. She is beautiful and talented and so smart and she is very kind to everyone she meets. She is one of those people who has the ability to make others feel special every time they come into contact with her.

Tiffany: What is your favorite TV show?

Raven: My favorite shows are Switched at Birth, Make or Break It and Dance Moms. As you can see, I love watching a little bit of drama!

Tiffany: What is the biggest misconception about your generation?

Raven:I think that a lot of people assume that there aren’t goal oriented teenagers who are trying to make a difference anymore. I think that a lot of that comes from the way that we are represented in the media. Instead of a show called Teen Philanthropist or Teen Scholar, we have Teen Mom, and that really creates a stereotype. Being at NAM, and meeting so many smart, talented girls who are really making an impact in their communities has made me realized that people in our generation are going in the right direction, and we can change the world.

Tiffany: What is your most embarrassing moment?

Raven:My most embarrassing moment actually happened my first pageant interview. I was sitting at the interview table with a judge, and everything was going pretty well. The bell rang to switch to the next interviewer, and somehow I managed to get the edge of the tablecloth stuck in my shoe and I dragged the table cloth with me. I was horrified!

Tiffany: If you had three wishes what would you wish for?

Raven: World peace... LOL! If I could have three wishes, I would wish that everyone had all their necessities. I think that every person deserves food, water, shelter, and people who love them. It breaks my heart to know that so many people have so little. My second wish would be to travel all across the world before I go to college. I’ve always wanted to go to a bunch of countries to meet people from all over the world. My third wish, would be to have an unlimited gift card to the mall! What can I say? I love to shop!

Tiffany: If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?

Raven: I would love to go to Europe and experience the culture. I want to see the museums and the opera houses, and go on a tour of the Louvre. It just seems like a cool place to visit and experience.

Tiffany: What is your definition of a NAM girl?

Raven: My definition of a NAM girl is someone who is confident, caring, goal-oriented, and who gives back to others. A NAM girl is a girl with dreams, who is not afraid to work to achieve them.

Tiffany: If you could be on the cover of any Magazine what would it be?

Raven: If I could be on the cover of any magazine, it would be TIME as a woman who changes the world! It’s a big goal, but I am a girl with dreams.

 Tiffany: If you were stranded on a deserted island what three things could you not live without?

Raven: If I was stranded on a deserted island, I would have to bring my Bible. My faith is the most important thing to me. I would not be able to live without my relationship with Jesus. The second thing is my iPod because music makes me happy. I would also bring my family. No matter what challenges I face, they are always able to brighten up my day.

 

Tiffany: What is your most prized possession?

Raven: My prized possession is my Bible because I love the Lord and my relationship with him is the biggest part of my life.

 Tiffany: How would your friends describe you?

Raven: My friends would describe me as a leader who loves to have fun and can be really goofy sometimes!

Tiffany: How are you making a difference in your community?

Raven: I am making a difference in my community through volunteerism. I have had the opportunity to work with many organizations and I am willing to help out pretty much wherever I can. Although I do not always wear my crown and sash when I do it, I think that I am still able to be a role model for others by helping in the community.

 Tiffany: What is your favorite childhood memory?

Raven: My favorite childhood memory is when my little brother, Ryan, was born. It was one of the happiest days of my life because I had prayed and waited for a brother for so long, and now I love him so much! He will turn six in April, and I think that he’s growing up way too fast!

Tiffany: If you could go back in time and be at any historical event what would it be?

Raven:I would have loved to have been there when our founding fathers wrote the Constitution. For some reason that is just fascinating to me that they were able to come up with this elaborate plan and these rules that have governed our nation for hundreds of years. The process that went into that must have been incredible.

Tiffany: If you could go back in time and meet one person, who would it be and why?

Raven: I would want to meet my great-grandma Beslow. She died before I got the chance to meet her, but everyone always says that I’m just like her. She was known as a spunky go-getter, and from what I’ve heard, she was an amazing woman.

Tiffany: If you could be famous for something, what would you want to be famous for?

Raven: I would want to be famous for helping other people and being a talented woman of class and grace. I think nowadays that’s something that people don’t always appreciate, but I hope to be known as someone who is loving, kind, and who really contributes to the world.

Tiffany: What is your favorite book? And why?

Raven: My favorite book is the Hunger Games! It combines all of my favorite things in one story. It has romance, suspense, adventure, and it’s just a great story.

Tiffany: Where is your favorite place to shop?

Raven:I love shopping at Nordstrom. I have a totally girly style and I love everything in the BP section!

Tiffany: Who is the most influential person in the world now?

Raven: It’s hard to say who is the most influential person in the world. There are so many people who make an impact from presidents and politicians to firefighters and doctors. I think that the most influential people are those who inspire the next generation, such as teachers, parents, and pastors. They help shape the future by preparing kids for the real world.

Tiffany: Who or what inspires you most?

Raven: I am most inspired when I think about my parents and grandparents and great-grandparents who worked hard so that I could have the opportunities that I do today. If they were able to see me now and all of the opportunities that I have in my life, they would be so proud. I want to take advantage of those opportunities; not throw them away. I am so grateful for everything that I have.

Tiffany: What have you learned about yourself since competing in pageants?

Raven: I have learned that when I set my mind to something, I can be very determined to achieve it. I go after my goals, and I am willing to work very hard for them!

Tiffany: What is your definition of success ?

Raven: My definition of success is being confident in who you are and what you have. It is also doing the things that you are passionate about and loving life. Success is also loving who you are.

Tiffany: What advice do you have for future NAM girls?

Raven: My advice is to soak in the experience and really enjoy it! Hundreds of girls compete and there can only be one titleholder, but we can all walk away as winners. If you get so wrapped up in the competition aspect, you won’t be able to grow as a person, so really take advantage of this opportunity. It changed my life.

Tiffany: What do you plan to do with your title this year?

Raven: In my year of service, I hope to really enrich the lives of others and be an example. I hope to inspire girls to have confidence in themselves and follow their dreams. I also want to do lots of volunteer work, because I love giving back to the community.

Tiffany: Tell me about yourself.

Raven: I am a hard-working, yet fun-loving sixteen year old who has big dreams and is working hard to reach them. I love the Lord and my family and my friends. As a sophomore in high school, my life is busy, but I am enjoying the ride.

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 30th...

It's Not too late you can still represent your state at the National American Miss National Pageant!!!

National American Miss is the largest pageant in the nation for young women. We are so excited to extend an invitation to you to be a part of our program!  We hope you will be a part of our Appointed Representative Program. The girl that is selected as the State Representative will be given the opportunity to compete at the National Pageant, in Hollywood California for the National Title of NATIONAL AMERICAN MISS.
It’s your chance to make memories that last a lifetime!

This is for girls that are 19-20 and/or if we do not offer a state pageant in your home state.

Winners will be Announced May 15th!

For more information call 281-496-9000 or go to namiss.com!

Check out some of the official NAM National Titlholder's headshots...

Former NAM National Winner Kiana Brown stars in a new music video!!! Check it out...

National American Miss Kentucky Gives Back with Magical Moments

Stephanie Ramos, National American Miss Kentucky Teen Queen was blessed to be part of a wonderful event called Magical Moments In Louisville,KY. The event was held to give FREE prom dresses and shoes to girls who can’t afford it. Stephanie

was a guest volunteer and speaker. She also collected gowns and shoes in her community and donated gowns and shoes of her own. The event took place at the Paul Mitchell School. After girls picked out a gown and shoes they also got their hair and make-up done for free. As part of Stephanie’s speech, she spoke to girls about self confidence, poise and the many benefits that being a part of NAM brought to her life and can bring to their lives as well. Stephanie had an amazing day and was truly blessed to be part of this wonderful event.

Check out the 2012 NAM State Program Book Covers !!!!

The 2011 National American Miss Florida Jr Teen Gives Back in a BIG way!

The 2011 NAM Miss Florida gives back with the Salvation Army!

Meet The 2011-2012 National All-American Miss Teen Kasey Knowles

Tiffany: How did you get involved in National American Miss?
Kasey:I started with NAM about 7 years ago when a friend of mine had received a recommendation letter in the mail and told me I should try it out. I’ve been hooked ever since.

 

Tiffany:How did you prepare for the National Pageant?
Kasey: I started preparing right after my state pageant. I went and looked tirelessly for my perfect dress. I then prepared my personal introduction, by memorizing and perfecting it every day. I didn’t have much free time, due to the fact that I was either at school or practice, but I miraculously pulled it off, all while stressing my mother out.

 

Tiffany:   What is the best advice you have ever received?
Kasey: Go big or go home!!! If you’re not going to do it 110% then don’t do it at all!

Tiffany:What quote, motto or scripture best describes you?
Kasey:“Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but the number of moments that take your breath away.”

 

Tiffany:What are your plans for the future?
Kasey: My plans for the future are to graduate from Kansas State University with a degree in Animal Science and then go on to attend the College of Veterinary Medicine and become a large animal veterinarian. I will then go on to own my own practice and horse rescue. I hope to one day have a beautiful, successful family.

 

Tiffany:What activities are you involved in?
Kasey:I am majorly involved in being a Kansas State University cheerleader. I also am involved in theatre and the pre-vet club on campus.

 

Tiffany:What do you like to do for fun?
Kasey:For fun I like to hang out with my friends and you can usually find us all in my dorm room playing Xbox or singing to a Scotty McCreery song.

 

Tiffany:What is one item you can’t live without?
I could never live without my dog! He is my pride and joy!

Tiffany:Who is your rolemodel?
Kasey:My role model is my grandmother. She recently passed away, but I will never forget the things she taught me! She was an amazing woman and she was not ever afraid to tell you how it was. She taught us that sometimes the truth hurts, but it was always for our own good.

 

Tiffany:What is the biggest misconception about your generation?

Kasey:My generation has been called the “why” generation! As in “why can’t you pay for this?” “why won’t you do this for me?” and “why do I have to do it”! However I think this is a big misconception, I believe that my generation is actually a generation of doers. Thanks to social media and blogging there are more people my age are beginning to contribute to communities and start campaigns to benefit to society. For example, my organization Kennels by Kasey has helped the United States Humane Society!

 

Tiffany:What is your most embarrassing moment?(preteen, jr teen and teen)
Kasey:One of my most embarrassing moments was very recent. I was cheering at the NCAA Volleyball tournament in Lincoln, Nebraska (a long time rival for Kansas State). While the teams were warming up, the cheerleaders were standing on the sidelines, when all of a sudden a ball flying through the air met the side of my head! Every one of the 4,000 fans gasped and then laughed. One person even made the comment “that was awesome”. Needless to say, I was really embarrassed.

Tiffany:If you had three wishes what would you wish for?
Kasey:If I had three wishes I would wish for my mom to live happy and live forever, because I could never live without her! My second wish would be to have super powers! And my third wish would of course be to have unlimited wishes!!

 

Tiffany:If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?
Kasey:Australia for sure! I would want to see the kangaroos!

 

Tiffany:What is your definition of a NAM girl?
Kasey:My definition of a NAM girl would be the “All-American Girl”! She is someone who is just a normal girl, but by being a part of NAM she has the confidence and beauty to conquer anything. Being the “All-American Girl” she can be from anywhere in the country, but she is someone that people want to be like.

 

Tiffany:  If you could be on the cover of any Magazine what would it be?

Kasey:If I could be on the cover of any magazine I would be on the cover of Horse Fancy and Dog Fancy!

Tiffany:If you were stranded on a deserted island what three things could you not live with out?
Kasey:Well I need an unlimited amount of food, because I love to eat! The second thing I could not live without would be make up because I always like to look my best even if it is a deserted island. The third thing I could not live without would be my cell phone (with service), and then I could call someone to come help me get off the island.
 

Tiffany:What is your most prized possession?
Kasey: My dog, he is everything to me!

 

Tiffany:  How would your friends describe you?
Kasey: My friends would describe me as fun and having a great personality! I am always taking care of my friends and helping them out with whatever they need!

Tiffany:    How are you making a difference in your community?
Kasey: I am making a difference in my community by helping out the local charities and donating to the local humane societies. I make fleece tie blankets for the dogs at the shelter so that they are happy and warm while they wait for their new homes.

 

Tiffany:  What is your favorite childhood memory? ( preteen, jr teen, teen)
Kasey: My favorite childhood memory was getting to spend every summer in a small town with my grandparents and helping them farm and take care of livestock. I learned so much about myself, and the people I loved. 
 

Tiffany: If you could go back in time and be at any historical event what would it be?
Kasey: If I could go back in time to any historical event I would go back to witness Martin Luther King, Jr.’s ‘I have a dream’ speech.

Tiffany: If you could go back in time and meet one person, who would it be and why?
       Kasey: I would go back in time and meet Elvis, the King! I would meet him and tell him that my mom loves him and he needs to meet her!

     Tiffany:If you could be famous for something, what would you want to be famous for?
         Kasey:   I would want to be famous for being Miss USA!

      Tiffany: What is your favorite book? And why?
            Kasey: My favorite book is “The Notebook”, I’m really soft hearted and I’m a sucker for a great love story.

Tiffany:Where is your favorite place to shop?
           Kasey: My favorite place to shop is Juicy Couture, Nordstrom, Bebe, or Cabelas!

Tiffany:Who is the most influential person in the world now?
    Kasey:  I think one of the most influential people in the world today is Tim Tebow. He has shown the world that you have to fight for what you want, and no matter how much society tears you down saying he was not good enough to be a great NFL quarter back, he has proved many, who never believed in him, wrong.
           
Tiffany:Who or what inspires you most?
        Kasey:    My mother inspires me. She is always looking out for me and teaching me new things everyday. Now that I don’t live with her it’s hard because we are so close and she’s not with me everyday. She has been the biggest teacher in my life and I am blessed to have such an amazing woman for a mother!

Tiffany: What have you learned about yourself since competing in pageants?
          Kasey:  I have learned so many things about myself. I have obtained confidence and motivation to achieving my goals! I can apply what I have learned in pageants to the real world!

Tiffany:What is your definition of success ?            

Kasey:My definition of success is anything that turns out positively, it doesn’t matter how big or small it is, as long as its positive!

Tiffany:What advice do you have for future NAM girls?
           Kasey: Advice that I have for future NAM girls is be yourself, because that is the most important part to the NAM system! You can’t be a fake girl at NAM because it is all about who you are and what you stand for!

Tiffany:What do you plan to do with your title this year?
            Kasey:Well the day I came home from nationals I started working with my title! I plan to keep helping and volunteering for the local animal shelter! I have been interviewed by the paper about my views on pageants, I will also be working with our special needs cheer team! I also plan to visit as many state pageants as I can!

     Tiffany:Tell me about yourself.
            Kasey:My name is Kasey Clara Knowles, my family calls me Kasey Belle, my friends call me Kase. I am a freshman at Kansas State University where I am also a cheerleader. I have one big sister, Kassidy! I have two dogs, Drake and Toby. I grew up in the middle of Kansas, and have lived in Salina my whole life. I am the most energetic, outgoing girl! You will never meet anyone who loves food more than me, my mom always jokes that I eat every two hours! My favorite food is pasta and chips and salsa. I love a chai tea latte from Starbucks on the daily and chocolate covered donuts! I am 5’ 10” and a half, and in heels I am 6’3”. I am 18 years old and I am terrified of grasshoppers!

Meet The 2011-2012 National American Miss Teen Jena Diller

Tiffany: How did you get involved in National American Miss?

             Jena:   I got involved with National American Miss when I was 9 years old.  My sister actually got involved two years before I did because she received a letter in the mail.  At first, my parents were skeptical to let her compete; however, they decided to let her try it out just for one year.  Much to our surprise, however, we all fell in love with NAM from the moment we arrived at the hotel and have been hooked ever since.

Tiffany:How did you prepare for the National Pageant?

                Jena:While preparing for Nationals, obviously there was A LOT of practice involved.   This was my third time out at Nationals as a state queen so I sort of knew what to expect, however, that didn’t stop me from practicing my heart out.  I practiced my introduction to and from school while also making sure I did not “over-rehearse” so I still sounded as natural and sincere as possible.  Lastly, and most importantly, I made sure I could vision myself standing and walking on the National stage with poise and confidence. 

Tiffany: What is the best advice you have ever received?

               Jena: The best advice I ever received was simply to never give up.  I competed in National American Miss for 5 years before I ever won my first state title.  The determination and perseverance I learned those first five years was what kept pushing me to not only win my first state NAM title in 2005, but become the NAM Ohio Jr. Teen in 2007, NAM Ohio Teen in 2011 and now the National American Miss Teen!

Tiffany: What quote , motto or scripture best describes you?

             Jena:   “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.” – Henry Ford.  This quote describes my attitude towards life and almost every situation that I’m faced with.  You can do anything you put your mind to, as long as you have the right attitude and motivation. 

Tiffany:  What are your plans for the future?

               Jena: Well, the first step in fulfilling my future goals is to graduate from Bluffton University with a degree in Marketing with a focus in Public Relations while also obtaining a double minor in Communications and Business Administration.  After graduation, however, I plan to become a Marketing and Public Relations director of a major corporation.  I hope to inspire others and make a positive impact on everyone I meet while I’m on my journey to accomplishing my many goals.

Tiffany:What activities are you involved in?

              Jena:  I am currently the Marketing and Public Relations assistant at Bluffton University and stay busy working, volunteering in my community, coaching gymnastics, going to my brothers sporting events and spending time with my family and friends.

Tiffany:  What is one item you can’t live without?

             Jena:  As most teenagers would probably say, I also could not live without my cell phone.  I can access the Internet to stay updated on my social media sites, receive emails, all while staying in contact with my friends and family.

Tiffany:  Who is your rolemodel?

               Jena: I have many people who have positively impacted my life, but the one person that I consider my role model is my older sister, Courtney.  She is not only my big sister, but my inspiration, biggest supporter, and best friend.  She has always taught me right from wrong and has given me a great example to follow.  I am fortunate to be able to share this year with her because she is also the NAM Miss Ohio and placed 3^rd runner up at Nationals.  She has always been the biggest supporter of my dreams and I couldn’t have done this without her.  If I become half the person she is I’ll be truly grateful. 

Tiffany:What is your favorite TV show?

               Jena: My favorite TV show is definitely Pretty Little Liars.  It’s a show that I can watch with my family and friends, keeps my full attention, and never gets boring to watch.

Tiffany:What is the biggest misconception about your generation?

                Jena:I think our generation has a lot of misconceptions but I think the biggest one is that we get too many things handed to us without truly working for them.  I personally believe our generation works just as hard as any because of the tough competition we are faced with.  Getting into college, making the Dean’s List or Honor Roll, the many sporting events and extracurricular activities we do and so much more.  We are constantly facing competition so we can accomplish our goals and stay ahead of the game.

                               

Tiffany: If you had three wishes what would you wish for?

               Jena: My first wish would be to find a Cure for Diabetes because my family has been greatly affected by this disease.  My sister, brother, uncle, grandmother and grandfather are all diabetic.  Second, I would absolutely LOVE to travel to Africa to work with kids in third-world countries.  My last wish is to win the lottery, not for a new car or house, but so I can pay off my student loans from college .

Tiffany:  If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?

               Jena: One of my lifetime goals is to go to Africa to work with the kids living in poverty.  I have wanted to travel to Africa since I was a little girl, so to finally fulfill that dream would be amazing!  I have had the great privilege of meeting a beautiful little girl by the name of Alima Thiobiono that lives in Burkina Faso, Africa.  She has been in the United States undergoing major surgeries that could not be performed in Africa.  Being around this amazing girl has made my desire to travel to Africa even stronger so I can make an impact on other kid’s lives like she has made on mine.

Tiffany:What is your definition of a NAM girl?

                Jena:My definition of a NAM girl would be a girl that has BIG dreams, a positive attitude towards life, and someone who is relatable and helpful.  A NAM girl is confident with who she is, willing to work hard to accomplish her goals and wants to make a difference in the world.

Tiffany:If you could be on the cover of any Magazine what would it be?

              Jena:  Since I was 9 years old, the only Magazine cover I ever wanted to be on was National American Miss.  And now at the age of 19, I can proudly say I will accomplish that goal this year and couldn’t be more excited to represent the pageant system that has changed my life forever.

Tiffany: If you were stranded on a deserted island what three things could you not live with out?

              Jena:  Of course, the first thing I would have to have with me is my cell phone.  It would allow me to stay in contact with my family and friends. I also could not live without my pillow! It may sound crazy but I absolutely love my pillow and if I’m going to be on the island by myself, I have a feeling I’d be taking a lot of naps.  Lastly, of course, I would bring a lot of food and bottled water.

Tiffany: What is your most prized possession?

               Jena: My most prized possession is probably my phone.  I am more of a talker than a texter, however, it has my email directly connected to it which is great for school and allows me to access the internet and stay in touch with my friends.

Tiffany:How would your friends describe you?

              Jena:  My close friends and they said they would describe me a loyal, honest, fun to be around and caring.  I am definitely adventurous and outgoing and love to put a smile on people’s faces.  I strive to be someone people can count on and go to if they ever need anything. 

Tiffany:How are you making a difference in your community?

                Jena: I am the founder of The Color of Christmas which is a project that included donating over 700 coloring books, crayons, markers, etc. to Children’s Hospitals over the Holidays.  I am also an active volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in honor of my sister and brother who are Type 1 Diabetics.  I am also a volunteer for Big Brothers Big Sisters, Relay for Life and the American Diabetes Association. 

Tiffany: What is your favorite childhood memory?

           Jena: All of my favorite childhood memories consist of my family and I traveling and just spending time together.  I am blessed to have an older sister and two younger brothers who made almost every trip we went on extremely entertaining. 

Tiffany:If you could go back in time and meet one person, who would it be and why?                   

                        Jena:There is one person that I’ve always wanted to meet and that is my Aunt Dalene.  She was killed by a drunk driver when she was only 18 years old and even though I may not have had the chance to meet her, she has had a huge impact on my life.  I am the only grandchild that is named after her and I am honored to carry on her name.  I can only hope that I have made her proud.

     Tiffany:If you could be famous for something, what would you want to be famous for?                                                                                       

            Jena:  If I was to be famous for anything, it would be simply to have made a difference in the lives of many people.  Whether it would be finding a cure for Diabetes, helping children in third-world countries, or even just being the best National Representative possible, I believe fame is only valuable if you use it to inspire and help others.   

    

Tiffany: Where is your favorite place to shop?

            Jena:  I shop at a wide variety of stores including Forever 21, Buckle, Wet Seal, Kohl’s, American Eagle, H&M, and New York and Company. However, I actually am not a huge shopper, but when I do shop, I love finding the best deals. So wherever the best deals are, that’s probably where you’ll find me

             

      Tiffany: Who or what inspires you most?

Jena:   My cousin Cole is someone who really inspires me.  He is 17 years old and has been through so much already in his short lifetime.  He has a brain tumor and has gone through multiple treatments of chemotherapy.  However, his recovery is not what inspires me but his attitude towards life.  He always has a smile on his face and sees the best in everything and everyone.  He never complains about the treatments, his illness, or being different from the other kids at school.  But instead, he serves as a daily reminder of how much we have to be thankful for and how we should view our own lives.  Cole has taught me that life is a very special gift that we should always treasure, no matter what challenges we may face along the way.

Tiffany: What have you learned about yourself since competing in pageants?

Jena: Through competing in National American Miss, I have learned that staying true to who you are and what you believe in is the most important thing.  I have learned to set my dreams and goals high and to never stop working towards them.  I have also learned that one of the best things you can gain from pageants is friends.  I have met some of my best friends through this system that have made my experiences even that much more special. 

  Tiffany: What is your definition of success?

           Jena: Success is not only accomplishing your dreams, but having the courage and perseverance to make it there.  Success cannot be accomplished without failure, and failure cannot be used unless it is learned from.  In order to truly succeed, you must triumph over your failures and stay determined, have faith, and believe that your dreams, and success, are just around the next obstacle. 

    Tiffany:What advice do you have for future NAM girls?

           Jena: The best advice I could give a future NAM girl would be to be yourself.  As cliché as it may sound, NAM truly is looking for someone who is confident with who she is and what she stands for.  NAM isn’t looking for perfection, but instead their looking for the perfect version of YOU. 

      Tiffany:What do you plan to do with your title this year?

            Jena:Over the next year, I hope to touch as many people’s lives as possible.  I have been working towards this goal since I was 9 years old and will do everything in my power to represent NAM and teens all across the country with poise and grace.  I will use my title to volunteer, inspire, and promote National American Miss and everything it stands for. 

     Tiffany: Tell me about yourself.

                        Jena:My name is Jena Dalene Diller, I’m 19 years old and I’m currently a Sophomore at Bluffton University.  I am majoring in Marketing with a focus in Public Relations.  I work at my family’s restaurant, Grillers Tavern, that we just opened in September of 2011 and I’m also the Marketing and Public Relations Assistant at Bluffton University. I have an older sister Courtney, and two younger brothers Clay and Logan who are my three best friends.  I have been with National American Miss since its beginning and I’m a huge supporter in everything NAM stands for.  I am extremely determined, ambitious, compassionate, and faithful.  I have been blessed with the opportunity of a lifetime and NAM has truly made me into the person I am today.