LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Most people know her as the reigning Miss Kentucky, but Hannah Edelen prefers the title of “Kentucky’s teacher.” In addition to visiting schools across the Commonwealth, while preparing to compete at Miss America, she’s now juggling a new role as a public servant.
Before becoming Miss Kentucky 2022, Edelen taught 6th grade Social Studies. Over the last few months, she’s gone from working with students in Covington to serving students across the state. In her eyes, Kentucky is her classroom.
Miss Kentucky is more than a title. It’s a full-time job with the Department of Agriculture, and Edelen has a lot on her plate, serving as the official spokesperson for Kentucky Proud. But she still finds time to promote her personal platform, Read Ready Kentucky.
On top of all that, this first-generation college graduate decided to compete in a new contest, running for public office.
“I noticed a significant number of issues that weren’t being addressed by people who maybe just didn’t understand them,” said Edelen. “I want to be the teacher that creates policies that work for teachers and students.”
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On Election Day, the Covington community spoke, electing Edelen to the Board of Education. At 24 years old, she’s the youngest person to assume the role. For the next four years, she plans to fight for her fellow teachers and star students, only pausing for her next pageant.
“I hope the judges at Miss America see that I am committed to creating a more equitable and excellent education for all kids. Not only in my community, but across the Commonwealth and even hopefully across America as the next Miss America,” said Edelen.
She’ll compete for the title of Miss America, along with a $50,000 scholarship, on Dec. 15th. If she wins, she plans to use the money to finish her Ph.D. in education at the University of Kentucky.