JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville native 23-year-old Paris Richardson hit the stage last night representing Florida in the Miss America pageant, taking home the second runner-up title.
The Ribault High School and University of Florida alum won the Miss Florida title on June 28.
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On Sunday night at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, she graced the stage with 51 other ladies to compete for the Miss America title.
Richardson was a top-five finalist. Cassie Donegan from New York was crowned Miss America 2026.
The top five finalists were:
- Winner: Miss New York 2025, Cassie Donegan
- 1st Runner-Up: Miss Texas 2025, Sadie Schiermeyer
- 2nd Runner-Up: Miss Florida 2025, Paris Richardson
- 3rd Runner-Up: Miss Georgia 2025, Audrey Kittila
- 4th Runner-Up: Miss Alabama 2025, Emma Terry
The day before her big night, Richardson shared a story on her Miss Florida Instagram account about her nana, who she credited for the valuable lessons that brought her through this journey.
“Forever grateful for the roots that shaped me and the love that continues to guide me,” her post said. “Tonight will be my last time stepping on the Miss America stage. Whether I continue this journey as Miss Florida or as Miss America, I will keep advocating through C.R.O.W.N. of Health, fighting for communities, wellness, and equity everywhere I go!”
Richardson is a health care visionary with her eyes set on becoming the CEO of a hospital someday. She used her platform to spotlight healthy living and health equity.