Kim Guadagno Welcomes Miss America Contestants to New Jersey

Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno was among the dignitaries who welcomed the 53 Miss America contestants to New Jersey on Wednesday. This year’s Miss America Pageant takes place Sept. 14 at Boardwalk Hall and will be broadcast live on ABC.

“It’s such a pleasure to welcome the Miss America competition back to Atlantic City for the second year in a row,” Guadagno said. “The 53 contestants can take pride in their success and in the leadership and dedication they have displayed.”

Guadagno welcomed contestants in place of Gov. Chris Christie, who is in Mexico this week. Guadagno is serving as the Acting Governor in his absence.

Contestants hail from all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. New Jersey is represented by Cierra Kaler-Jones, of Galloway.

“On behalf of the Miss America Organization, we are thrilled to be returning to Atlantic City once again,” Sam Haskell, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the Miss America Organization, said. “We have an incredible class of intelligent young women competing this year.”

Along with its state and local affiliates, the Miss America Organization offered more than $45 million in scholarship support last year.

“Hosting events like Miss America also provides support to local businesses while showcasing the unique and diverse attractions that Atlantic City and New Jersey have to offer,” Guadagno said.

The Miss America Competition is the latest in a series of world-class events that have either recently occurred or will soon take place in New Jersey. Wrestlemania XXIX sold out MetLife Stadium in 2013, with Super Bowl XLVIII following in February of 2014.

New Jersey also hosted the 2014 Special Olympics USA National Games, in addition to countless other events showcasing some of the world’s premier athletes, entertainers, and performers of all genres and disciplines.

Galloway has annually hosted the LPGA ShopRite Classic since 2011, and New Jersey will host the 2017 PGA TOUR Presidents Cup.