With only a few months remaining until I pass on the title of Miss German America to the 68th Steuben Parade Queen, I find myself reminiscing on this unforgettable year and the journey I took to get there.
Sixteen years ago, I received my first sash and crown at the Liederkranz in New York City. I spent the summer of 2009 attending events in the tristate area with the court of the 52nd German American Steuben Parade. It was during that summer that I first dreamed of one day becoming Miss German-America. This dream came to fruition last May, when I was given the honor of representing our culture and community.

My year as Miss German America has been nothing short of incredible. I have connected with people from all over the world. I danced my way through the summer with new friends and old friends alike, enjoying all the German cuisine and Oompah music along the way. Memories made during parade weekend will stay with me for a lifetime – like watching all of the groups from overseas perform at the City Hall Greeting, speaking with our Grand Marshall- Armin Laschet, at the Gala, enjoying the view of the parade from the Grandstand on 5th Avenue, or partaking in all of the festivities at the Central Park Oktoberfest following the parade.

This last year could easily be described as a whirlwind, but I am forever grateful for the little moments shared with those around me. From Bavarian dancing with Princess Gillian and members of Original Enzian at the Long Island Bavarian Festival, to walking around and meeting attendees at Eisenhower Park with Princess Allison on German Night, to filming Instagram Reels with the iconic juniors Annabelle, Michaela, and Max. The people that I have gotten to know along the way will leave a lasting impression on my life.

I could go on about all of the people that made this experience unforgettable; however, I would be remiss not to thank my family for their unwavering support, and for instilling in me the importance of our culture and heritage. With that in mind, I’d like to specifically acknowledge my Oma, who drove me around to events all those years ago and who, to this day, continues to accompany me at various events, encouraging me and cheering me on all the while. She even became a social media icon along the way (check out the @Miss.German.America Instagram account)! I feel incredibly fortunate to have shared such a unique and meaningful experience with my Oma and the rest of my family.
I would also like to thank Connie Rom, the Miss German-America Chairlady, for constantly supporting and instilling confidence in me and the other members of this court. I feel very privileged to have had Connie guiding me every step of the way throughout this experience.
Representing the German-American community alongside the 67th Steuben Parade court has been the opportunity of a lifetime. As I prepare to close this chapter of my life, I am filled with bittersweet emotions.
To the next Miss German America and her court – if I can offer any advice, it is this:
1. Keep an open mind. There is so much to learn.
2. Take mental pictures of everything – especially on Parade weekend; you’ll blink, and it will be over.
3. Always drop what you are doing and dance when the band starts playing Anton.
With so much gratitude and fondness for my year as Miss German-America, I look forward to proudly marching in the 68th Steuben Parade on September 20th, 2025.