NEW CITY, N.Y. — More than 50 young women from across New York will travel to Rockland County later this month as the county hosts the Miss New York and Miss New York’s Teen competitions, an event local leaders say will bring economic activity, cultural engagement and statewide attention to the region.
The competitions are scheduled for June 25-27 at the RCC Cultural Arts Theater on the campus of Rockland Community College in Suffern. Contestants will participate in a series of events culminating in ticketed evening competitions on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
County officials view the event as an opportunity to showcase Rockland County to visitors from across the state and beyond.
“We are proud to welcome the Miss New York and Miss New York’s Teen Competition to Rockland County,” County Executive Ed Day said in a statement. “This event showcases our vibrant community and the best of what our region has to offer.”
In addition to the stage competition, organizers have planned activities designed to introduce contestants to local attractions, businesses and cultural destinations throughout Rockland County. Participants are expected to document their experiences on social media, potentially reaching audiences far beyond the Hudson Valley.
Economic Development Director Jenna Nazario said the event provides a platform to highlight the county’s businesses and community assets.
“Hosting Miss New York in Rockland is a great opportunity to highlight our small businesses, culture and the RCC Cultural Arts Theater, while showcasing the pride and energy of our community,” Nazario said.
Rockland Community College officials said they are honored to serve as the host venue for the event, which they believe will help elevate the profile of the college’s performing arts facility.
“Rockland Community College is proud to host the Miss New York Pageant at the Cultural Arts Theater, an event that celebrates the remarkable talent, dedication and ambition of its participants,” said RCC President Dr. William P. Mullaney. “It also offers a powerful opportunity to showcase the beauty and versatility of our theater, highlighting its potential as a premier destination for arts, culture and community events in Rockland County.”
The Miss New York Scholarship Organization also praised the partnership with county and college leaders.
“We are absolutely thrilled and honored to bring the Miss New York Competition to Rockland County this June,” said Sloane Lewis, executive director of the Miss New York Scholarship Organization. “The county and the leadership at Rockland Community College have shown immense support and commitment to making it an unforgettable experience for our contestants, their families and the audience in this wonderful community.”
Organizers said many contestants and their supporters will travel from outside the region, generating additional visitors for local hotels, restaurants and businesses during the three-day event.
The annual Miss New York and Miss New York’s Teen competitions serve as the state-level preliminary to the national Miss America and Miss America’s Teen programs, which emphasize scholarship, service, leadership and personal achievement.