Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

#47: Miss Washington, 2007 — Elyse Umemoto

Washington has never produced a Miss America winner, but Elyse Umemoto gave the state one of its strongest finishes in 2009 when she placed as 2nd runner-up. Raised in Yakima, she is of Japanese, German, and Native American heritage, and her platform focused on diversity and cultural awareness.

Her placement marked a proud moment for Washington and showcased her as a dynamic, outspoken representative. After the pageant, Umemoto went on to pursue opportunities in television and public service, remembered as one of the state’s most impactful contestants.