News Summary
Emma Terry, a recent graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, was crowned Miss Alabama during a heartfelt ceremony at Samford University. Terry, who also faced significant personal challenges leading up to the competition, demonstrated her talent and poise among 42 contestants. She received preliminary awards and will now represent Alabama in the Miss America competition. Her community initiative, inspired by her grandfather’s battle with ALS, adds a profound layer to her achievements and advocacy efforts.
Birmingham – Emma Terry, formerly known as Miss Hoover, was crowned Miss Alabama 2025 during an emotional ceremony held at the Wright Center at Samford University on June 28, 2025. The 22-year-old recent graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she earned a master’s degree in accounting, will represent Alabama at the Miss America 2026 competition set to take place in January 2026.
Terry expressed her joy and gratitude upon receiving the title, stating that she felt “on top of the world” and appreciated the support she garnered during her pageant journey. The event was particularly memorable, as last year’s Miss Alabama, Abbie Stockard, crowned her during the ceremony. Stockard is also recognized for winning the Miss America competition in 2024.
Throughout the pageant, which featured 42 contestants, Terry distinguished herself by receiving two preliminary awards for her evening gown presentation and her performance in ballet en pointe. The contest evaluated contestants in various categories, including talent, evening wear, health and fitness, and on-stage interviews. Preliminary rounds spanned from June 25 to June 27, culminating in the finale that showcased the excellence in communication, talent, and composure among the participants.
Runner-Up Details and Honors
Terry’s court includes:
- First Runner-Up: Hannah Adams (Miss Phenix City)
- Second Runner-Up: Ruby Tilghman (Miss University of Alabama)
- Third Runner-Up: Lauren Vance (Miss Tennessee Valley)
- Fourth Runner-Up: Abby Sosa (Miss Hidden River)
Personal Challenges
Leading up to the pageant, Terry faced significant personal challenges, including undergoing heart surgery in March 2025 to address a concealed heart condition. Despite these hardships, she persevered and emerged victorious. Her community service initiative titled “Stomping Out ALS One Step at a Time” is particularly poignant, as it was inspired by her grandfather, who battled ALS for 22 years.
Pageant Background
The Miss Alabama pageant has a long-standing tradition of celebrating talent and beauty, providing contestants from across the state the opportunity to shine and advocate for social causes. This year, the competition emphasized not only physical and artistic talents but also the importance of community engagement and personal narratives that resonate with the audience and the judges.
Emma Terry’s crowning marks an important moment in her life and for the state of Alabama as she prepares to embark on her journey to represent Alabama on the national stage. Her story of resilience combined with her academic achievements positions her as a role model for many. As she looks forward to the Miss America competition, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of her community, aiming to make a positive impact while advocating for her cause.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Emma Terry Crowned Miss Alabama 2025
University of Alabama Students Compete for Miss Alabama Title
Huntsville Protests Erupt During Greene Fundraiser
Alabama Delegation Honors 65 Years of Marshall Space Flight Center
Huntsville Hosts Fundraiser Featuring Controversial Speech
Vandalism Strikes Huntsville Ahead of Greene Fundraiser
Huntsville Protests Marjorie Taylor Greene Fundraising Event
Top Burger Joints to Try in Huntsville
Huntsville, Alabama Celebrates Summer Art and Culture
Huntsville City Council Approves $44.6 Million Ice Center Expansion
Additional Resources
- Yellowhammer News
- Google Search: Miss Alabama 2025
- Times Daily
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Miss Alabama
- 280 Living
- Google News: Emma Terry Miss Alabama
