Willow Newell Takes the Crown and Makes State History
Willow Newell, a 22-year-old from Racine, has been named Miss Wisconsin 2025. She is the first Black woman to ever win the title in the pageant’s history.
Newell stood out among 29 contestants from across Wisconsin. Her win brought loud cheers and emotional reactions from those in the audience, many of whom recognized the moment as a cultural milestone.
A Powerful Voice Steals the Show
During the talent segment, Newell wowed the judges with her powerful performance of “And I’m Telling You” from Dreamgirls. Her vocals earned her the highest talent score and the Ryan Guy Memorial Music Scholarship.
Her performance was not just beautiful—it was bold, emotional, and confident. Many said it was one of the most memorable parts of the evening.
Promoting Inclusion Through Art and Advocacy
Beyond talent, Newell brought a strong message to the stage. Her community service initiative is called “Expression Without Inclusion.” It focuses on helping people access the arts through storytelling, resources, and community support.
Her platform aims to make the arts more inclusive, especially for those who may feel left out due to race, disability, or financial barriers.
A Journey That Started as a Teen
Newell has been competing in pageants since 2017. She started as a teen and worked her way up, gaining experience and building confidence with each competition.
Now, as Miss Wisconsin 2025, she will represent the state at the national level. She’s set to compete for Miss America 2026 in Orlando, Florida, this coming September.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Willow Newell’s victory is more than a win—it’s a symbol of change and progress. Her achievement is likely to inspire young girls across Wisconsin and beyond.
“I hope people see this and feel like they can do it too,” she said in an interview following the event.
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