Miss Oklahoma

Lauren Nelson

What is your hometown like?
Located in southwest Oklahoma, Lawton is the fourth largest city in the state but maintains a hometown atmosphere. It's most known for Fort Sill, a U.S. Army Field Artillery Center.

What were you like when you were a child?
I loved to perform whether it was on a stage or in my back yard. My friends and I were known to put on backyard productions complete with costumes, props and scenery.

Who is the most influential person in your life?
My high school music teacher, Beth Stukey, has been a huge influence. She was the first person who introduced me to music theater and is the reason I study music theater today.

What is one thing about you that people you meet may not immediately realize?
When you first meet me you see a trendy, fun loving, all-American young woman. What you would never guess is that I love the spotlight and grab any chance to get on stage and belt out a song.

What was one defining moment in your life?
The first time I performed in a high school musical theater production I felt the thrill and energy of a live performance and knew from that moment I wanted to be on Broadway.

What was one defining moment in your life?
Surround yourself with people you trust who want the best for you. Trust your instincts.

What was one defining moment in your life?
Miss America should be viewed as an icon for the all-American young woman -- one who is achievement oriented and active in her community. I hope to build on the Miss America Organization's current momentum by continuing to introduce Miss America to new, younger audiences and reacquainting those who have forgotten what Miss America has represented for more than 80 years. Miss America is a timeless tradition that I would be honored to represent.