Miss Kansas

Michelle Walthers

Whhat is your hometown like?
Towanda is true small-town America. We're a close knit community, and even though we're tiny, we've got a big heart.

What were you like when you were a child?
I was incredibly shy, but I always wanted to be Cinderella.

Who is the most influential person in your life?
Without a doubt, my Mom. She taught me balance and character, and I hope I can be half the mom she is to my kids someday.

What is one thing about you that people you meet may not immediately realize?
I am an artist. I work in oil paint as my primary medium, but I also sketch and work as a caricature artist commercially.

What was one defining moment in your life?
When I was 9 years old, I repented and gave my life to Christ. Since then, my faith has been my guiding beacon and the one thing that doesn't change.

What was one defining moment in your life?
Confidence. I always thought that self-confidence was overrated, but pageants have taught me that learning to have confidence in yourself impacts every aspect of life at some point.

What was one defining moment in your life?
I hope to help the Miss America program continue to grow and prosper by making new connections in the corporate world and by spreading the message of Strong Families across the country.