Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

#16: Miss Kansas, 1997 — Tara Dawn Holland

Tara Dawn Holland became Kansas’s first Miss America when she won the national crown in 1997. Raised in Overland Park, she was deeply passionate about education and literacy, a cause that became the centerpiece of her platform. Her dedication to teaching and helping children learn distinguished her from the start.

During her reign, she spoke to thousands of students across the country, emphasizing the importance of reading. Holland’s ability to mix charisma with genuine advocacy made her a standout titleholder, giving Kansas a proud place in Miss America history