Teresa Scanlan Miss Nebraska Crowned Miss America
Jan. 16, 2010— -- 17-year-old Teresa Scanlan of Nebraska has become the youngest winner of the Miss America crown in 90 years. She won a $50,000 scholarship and a year-long rein with the crown after beating out 52 other contestants at Planet Hollywood casino and resort in Las Vegas. She is the youngest Miss America since the pageant's first competition in 1921, which Margaret Gorman of the District of Columbia won at age 15.
First runner-up Miss Arkansas Alyse Eady won $25,000, while Miss Hawaii Jalee Fuselier won $20,000 for third place.
Caressa Cameron, who was crowned Miss America last year, handed off the coveted crown to the new winner after a two-hour competition. Contestants hailed from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
The pageant, which has not aired on ABC since 2004, began with an opening number, after which hosts Brooke Burke from "Dancing with the Stars" and Chris Harrison of "The Bachelor" announced 16 finalists, which included one finalist chosen by fans through online and mobile phone voting.
The 16 finalists competed in four categories: categories: swimsuit, evening gown, talent and interview competitions.
Saturday's finale was the culmination of a week of build-up competitions that have seen several contestants take cash prizes after winning preliminary swimsuit and talent competitions.
