Co-Hosts

Bert Parks is iconically recognized as the host of Miss America. Following his passing, several hosts have come and gone, including none other than Chris Harrison. He has hosted, and continues to host, popular news and reality television shows. This will be his 7th year judging the Miss America Pageant.

Brooke Burke previously hosted the Miss America Pageant in 2013, while it was hosted in Los Vegas. She is making her way tot he east coast to host this year’s competition at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. In addition to co-hosting Dancing with the Stars, Brooke is a successful blog-preneur, and has launched several digital resources for crunchy mothers and more.

Preliminary Judges

The preliminary round is judged by a second set of judges. These judges are trained in different areas of expertise, specifically behind the scenes. There is a former Miss America, as well as a television producer, author, political lobbyist, and fashion experts. These judges are responsible for the private interview category, and will choose the Top 15 contestants.

Music Curator

Nick Jonas is no stranger to the pageant world. He dated Olivia Cuplo; Miss Rhode Island USA, Miss USA 2012, Miss Universe 2012. He was a successful artist with his brothers’ band, Jonas Brothers, before launching his solo career. He is now serving as the Music Curator. He will not only choose the songs played during each phase of competition, but provide commentary explaining his rationale during the pageant.

Final Judges

The biggest announcement came when Vanessa Williams, former Miss Syracuse-New York-America, was announced as the Head Judge. Following her controversial resignation as Miss America, Vanessa had stepped away from her involvement with the Miss America Program. She then built a highly successful career in the entertainment industry, both as a musical artist and model. She recently returned to New York where she was married, and lives in the lower Hudson Valley. Her return is said to “rewrite history”.  No matter what, New York is proud of Vanessa Williams and is glad to welcome her back into the MAO/MNY legacy.