Lyahnnette Morales ’27 Represents MA in Miss America’s Teen Competition
Lyahnnette Morales ’27 competed in the Miss America Teen competition in West Palm Beach, FL in September. Lyahnnette advanced to the national stage after being crowned Miss Massachusetts’ Teen in June 2026 through Miss America Opportunity, the nation’s leading tuition-only scholarship organization for young women. She previously earned the title of Miss Boston’s Teen 2026.
More than a pageant, Miss America’s Teen is an opportunity to showcase community service initiatives and earn lucrative educational scholarships. Lyahnnette reflects on her experience:
“From August 29 through September 7, I had the honor of representing Massachusetts in West Palm Beach, Florida. On the very first day of my senior year at Boston University Academy, I was walking the Miss America’s Teen stage representing Massachusetts, a moment that reflected years of education, service, performance, leadership, and preparation.
As a national and international performer, I understand the discipline required to prepare at a high level, perform under pressure, and represent something larger than myself. The ten-day experience gave me another opportunity to apply those skills through private interview, rehearsals, preliminary and talent competitions, the Tea Party, Red Gala, Finals, Breakfast of Champions, and other national events.
What meant the most to me was the sisterhood I found among the other state titleholders. Each young woman brought her own story, talents, goals, and commitment to service. It reinforced something I believe deeply: the most meaningful part of any title is not the crown itself, but what each of us chooses to do with the opportunity and how we use our individual strengths to make our communities stronger.
That impact was especially visible through the national Spotfund campaign benefiting the American Heart Association. With the support of 178 donors, I raised $19,605, placing first in my region and third nationally. Even more meaningful, teen titleholders across the country collectively raised $605,992. That is what can happen when individual purpose becomes collective action.
I also take great pride in using social media as a creative extension of my work. I develop ideas, record, edit, write, and share my own content in a way that reflects my personality, my service, and the things I am building. My social media account surpassed 1.2 million views and was recognized with a national social media award, but what matters most is that it gives people a way to see beyond the finished moment — to see the preparation, community work, performances, and purpose behind it.
That purpose continues through Aim for Success: Tap Into Your Greatness. TIYG is work I have already been doing with young people around confidence, discipline, leadership, mindset, and measurable goals. I am excited to continue expanding that work, strengthening partnerships, reaching more students, and creating opportunities that help young people recognize their own ability to lead and make an impact.
I left West Palm Beach grateful for the experience, proud of the work already underway, and even more focused on what I want to continue building.
A title can open a door. What matters most is what you bring through it.”
Read more about Lyahnnette‘s pageant journey here.