Wisconsin witnessed a historic moment this weekend as 22-year-old Willow Newell broke a long-standing racial barrier, becoming the first Black woman ever crowned Miss Wisconsin. A proud Racine native, Newell’s victory isn’t just a win for her—it’s a milestone for representation, resilience, and rising talent in the pageant world.
Wearing the Miss Racine sash, Newell outshone 29 other contestants during Saturday night’s state competition, ultimately claiming the coveted crown and earning $13,000 in scholarships. But it wasn’t just the title she took home—she also captivated the audience and judges alike with a soaring, emotional rendition of “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going”from Dreamgirls, which earned her the top vocalist award and the prestigious Ryan Guy Memorial Music Scholarship.
And true to the song’s message, she didn’t go anywhere—she rose.
Newell’s journey to the crown wasn’t overnight. She first entered the Miss America Opportunity as a teen contestant back in 2017 and has been steadily building her path ever since. With each competition, she brought not just poise and talent, but a deeper purpose.
Her platform, “Expression Without Exclusion,” aims to make the arts more inclusive and accessible—something that speaks volumes in an industry often criticized for its lack of diversity. Through this initiative, she’s worked to ensure that community members of all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and represented in artistic spaces.
A recent graduate of Carthage College with a Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theater, Newell is no stranger to hard work. Her dedication to the stage—both in performance and advocacy—has now propelled her onto the national spotlight.
As the newly crowned Miss Wisconsin, Newell is preparing to compete at Miss America 2026, set to take place in Orlando this September. She’ll be carrying more than a sash with her—she’ll bring a voice, a story, and a platform rooted in creating space for others.
In a statement released by the Miss Wisconsin organization, Newell’s victory was celebrated not only for her performance but also for the grace and purpose she brings to the title.
“She has consistently shown excellence across every category—talent, interview, community impact—and she’s making history while doing it,” one official noted.
For many watching in Wisconsin and beyond, Willow Newell’s win is more than just a crown—it’s a cultural moment. Her success marks a turning point in a space that hasn’t always reflected the diversity of the communities it represents.
“To see a young Black woman stand in that spotlight, claiming her space with elegance and confidence, means something—especially to the next generation of girls watching,” said one audience member at the event.
Indeed, representation matters. And with this win, Willow Newell hasn’t just rewritten her own story, she’s helped open the door wider for others to walk through, dream big, and shine unapologetically.
