Ashlyn Powers: Miss Auburn University 2026 Crowned

The Miss Auburn University Scholarship Competition 2026

On October 3rd, business management senior, Ashlyn Powers, was crowned as Miss Auburn University 2026 after successfully outperforming 11 other contestants. The event, held at the Student Activities Center, consisted of various judging categories that included talent, evening gown, and on-stage conversation. Multiple awards were won by the different participants throughout the evening.

The scholarship competition started at 6 p.m., with doors opening to the public at 5:00 p.m. Tickets for community members were available for purchase either at the door or in advance. Auburn University students enjoyed free admission to the event.

Highlights of The Competition

Abbie Stockard, Miss America 2025, hosted the scholarship competition that was composed of an opening number, on-stage conversation, health and fitness segment, talent display, evening gown presentation, special performances, and the final crowning of Miss Auburn University.

The competition scoring system was divided as follows: 10 percent for on-stage conversation, 20 percent for health and fitness, 20 percent for talent, 20 percent for evening gown, and a 30 percent weightage for the interview with the judges.

Performance Details and Awards

The opening act of the competition saw contestants performing a choreographed dance to “Pink” by Lizzo. The theme for this year, Tickled Pink, was inspired by 2025 Miss Auburn University, Mikella Anderson. Anderson contributed to the opening number, performed her own ballet dance to “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, and walked the final walk.

Ashlyn Powers, now crowned Miss Auburn University, showcased her drumming talent by playing “Wipe Out” by The Surfaris. Her service initiative emphasized on empowerment for individuals with disabilities.

Runner-Up and Other Winners

Madeline Pitre, a sophomore majoring in public administration, was the runner-up and the recipient of a $1,000 award. Caroline Lybarger, a junior majoring in business management and psychology, was the second runner-up and received a $500 award. Lauren Anderson, a junior majoring in music education, was granted the Make Your Move Performing Arts Talent Award, a $300 prize.

Judges of Miss Auburn University 2026

The 2026 Miss Auburn University competition brought together five distinguished judges from different walks of life. They included:

• Susan Downs, an educator, the recently crowned Ms. Senior Alabama 2022, and head of the Bruno Montessori Academy in Birmingham, Alabama
• Dr. Chris Martin, an associate clinical professor at Auburn University College of Nursing and a proud Auburn graduate
• Lauren Findley, the vice president of enrollment management at Texas Wesleyan University and formerly crowned Miss Gadsen State
• Dr. Verlindsey Stewart, the stewardship coordinator at Alabama A&M University, committed to student success, institutional excellence, and financial stewardship
• Meg McGuffin, an Auburn graduate and Miss America 2015, recognized at the national pageant for her community service initiative, Healthy is the New Skinny

A Preliminary to Miss Alabama

As a preliminary to Miss Alabama in the Miss America system, the Miss Auburn University competition marks the start of Ashlyn Powers’ journey into the world of pageantry.

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