Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

#4: Miss Arkansas, 1964 — Donna Axum

Donna Axum became Arkansas’s first Miss America when she won the crown in 1964. Born in El Dorado, she grew up in a small town before studying at the University of Arkansas. She impressed judges with her poise and strong stage presence, quickly making her mark on the national stage.

After her reign, Axum built a successful career in broadcasting and philanthropy, raising millions for the arts and education. She proved that the title could be more than just glamour, showing how a small-town Arkansas girl could become a national leader.