What started as her mother’s gentle suggestion five years ago has led to a national crown. Jayden Harmon, an Allen County-Scottsville High School senior and the daughter of Jill and Jay Harmon, was recently named Miss Teen American States USA in the Miss American States USA pageant.

Unlike some traditional pageants that require winning state or regional preliminary titles first, this national competition was an open pageant, allowing young women from across the United States to compete directly on the national stage.

Harmon's pageant journey began at age 13 when she stepped onto the stage for the very first time at the Tompkinsville Watermelon Festival.

"My mother asked me if I would like to compete in a pageant," Harmon recalled. "After that first one, I absolutely fell in love with everything about it."

That initial spark launched a passion. Over the years, Harmon has discovered that competing requires far more effort than what meets the eye during the final showcase.

“I have learned how to be more poised, more confident and improve my communication skills,” Harmon explained. “It takes a lot of work and preparation, including training with a coach, practicing interviewing and selecting the right wardrobe.”

Depending on the specific program, contestants are evaluated across several distinct categories, which can include beauty, panel or 1-on-1 interviewing, talent, photogenic appeal, and community service involvement.

While the sparkle of the tiara is exciting, Harmon emphasizes that the personal growth gained behind the scenes is what keeps her coming back. Through her years in pageantry, she has developed strong public speaking abilities, refined poise, and a level of self-assurance that carries over into her everyday life.

Harmon says she "absolutely" plans to continue competing in pageants going forward---a schedule that includes swimming for AC-S, church involvement, and senior class activities.