Miss Rhode Island

Allison Rogers

What is your hometown like?
Providence is the Renaissance city -- from our rich history and historic sites to our revitalized downtown and new urban growth, exquisite food, art and WaterFire and some of the world's best universities. Best of all, Providence and Rhode Island natives are one of a kind -- generous, outgoing, sometimes a little wacky in a good way and always proud of being the 50th largest state in the country.

What were you like when you were a child?
I had chubby cheeks, buckteeth, and was somewhat shy until I realized a smile can win you many friends and learned it was much more fun to be outgoing. Growing up with my twin brother, I learned at a young age that girls can play just as hard as the boys and to say yes to a challenge from other people. It makes us stronger and it's much more fun!

Who is the most influential person in your life?
My parents are by far the most influential people in my life because they have worked very hard and sacrificed so much in order for my brother, my sister and I to receive the best education possible, from our schooling to music lessons to sports to ice skating and more. They have taught me the importance of giving to others, of thinking globally while acting locally and of being a lifelong learner.

What is one thing about you that people you meet may not immediately realize?
I am half-Cape Verdean and half-Irish. My mother's parents are from the country of Cape Verde, a small island country off the coast of West Africa, and my Dad's parents are from Ireland. This past year, I started learning the Cape Verdean language, and one day I will have to learn Irish Gaelic.

What was one defining moment in your life?
A defining moment in my life was the birth of my younger sister Hilary, when I was 9 years old, almost a decade older. As a child, I had always wanted an older sister, and the day Hilary was born, I realized it was now my chance to become the older sister I had always wanted to her.

What was one defining moment in your life?
It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a whole state and more to raise a pageant queen. Every time I am on stage, I think of all of the many mentors, coaches, friends and teachers in my life who have contributed to my personal development in some way. The most important thing I have learned is to take advantage of the resources your community has to offer and, in turn, to give back in service to your community.

What was one defining moment in your life?
As Miss America, I will move this Organization forward by restoring the image of Miss America in the eyes and hearts of the American people and by branding this Organization as relevant to today's society. I hope to reach out to millions of people, allowing them to see that the Miss America Organization exemplifies the best of our nation -- generosity, service, beauty, intelligence and compassion. AsMiss America, I will raise awareness about my platform, Go Green! Global Warming Awareness, which is the most important issue of our time. Global warming will have a significant impact on our future and our children's future if we don't act soon. Our country needs a positive leader to inspire us to make changes and to encourage our government, businesses and communities to address global warming. America has overcome obstacles since the founding of our nation, and I will inspire our country to once again rise above and address the greatest challenge of our time as Miss America.