Teresa Scanlan from Nebraska Won Miss America 2011

Miss America 2011 pageant was won by 17 years old, Miss Nebraska, Teresa Scanlan on Saturday, 15th January 2011 in Las Vegas. Teresa Scanlan became the youngest Miss America since this pageant’s first appearance 90 years ago in 1921. Teresa Scanlan won the big prize, a $50,000 scholarship, and the headgear (crown for a year) at the Planet Hollywood casino-resort in Las Vegas. The crown was won by Cornhusker State resident first time. She beat 52 other beauty queens from across the United States at Miss America 2011 pageant.

Image source: www.nydailynews.com

Miss America 2011 pageant was led by a panel of seven judges who were eyed participants for their looks and fitness. Veterinarian Dr. Debbye Turner Bell, shoe designer Taryn Rose, a former Miss America 1990, The View co-host Joy Behar, actress Marilu Henner and Dancing with the Stars executive producer and creator Marc Cherry are the judges of the show. Evening gown, talent and interview portions were included in the Miss America 2011 pageant.

Miss Nebraska convinced the seven judges by playing "White Water Chopped Sticks" at the piano and strutting down the stage in a black bikini. First runner-up, Miss Arkansas, Alyse Eady won $25,000 and for third place, Miss Hawaii Jalee Fuselier won $20,000. Teresa Scanlan plans to go to law school and ultimately become a politician and stand up for what's right, stand up for integrity and honesty. Recently, Scanlan completed her high school graduation from the western Nebraska town of Gering. Now she wants to attend law school to become a judge.

Video of Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan's crowning moment from youtube: