When Caitlyn Stupi (’19) first competed in the Miss America Organization (MAO) two years ago, she saw the program as a perfect combination of everything she had set her sights on from an early age: using her talents as a cellist and dancer, speaking out on social issues, volunteering, and being dedicated to academic excellence.
On June 23, Stupi found herself center stage wearing a crown.
Stupi has earned $20,000 in scholarships through MAO, allowing her to take full advantage of opportunities at Liberty. In her graphic design class, she wrote and illustrated a children’s book on financial literacy for her Social Impact Initiative with MAO; she received elective cello lessons at the School of Music to support her talent portion; and she was a member of the Liberty Flamettes dance team, which helped her learn how to create a bond between young women who share her interests.
Stupi graduated with honors in May, earning a Bachelor of Science in Studio & Digital Arts: Graphic Design.
“At Liberty, I was constantly surrounded by professors who supported and mentored me both as an individual and as an artist,” she said. “I wouldn’t be who I am now without the continued support of the faculty in the SADA Department, School of Music, and Honors Program.”
Leading up to December’s Miss America competition in Atlantic City, N.J., Stupi has been making public appearances, meeting with national leaders, and sharing her initiative, “Common Cents,” which teaches children the value of financial literacy at a primary level. She attended Financial Literacy Day on Capitol Hill on June 26.
“It’s my vision that every child will learn the basics of financial literacy — regardless of their socioeconomic background — and have access to an education that empowers their futures,” she said.
A large part of being Miss Maryland, Stupi explained, is being a servant leader and having an inter-generational impact on those she meets.
“Even though Miss Maryland gets to wear a crown and sash, her role is to make other people feel like the most important person in the room,” she said. “I have continued to grow as an advocate — not only on behalf of myself, but of others and the organization. I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to serve the state that shaped me into the woman of confidence and authenticity that I am today.”
