In a historic moment for the Miss America pageant, 22-year-old Madison Marsh, an officer in the U.S. Air Force from Colorado, was crowned Miss America 2024 on Sunday night in Orlando.

Marsh's victory marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first active duty service member to ever win the prestigious title. In an interview featured on the pageant's Instagram page, Marsh expressed her excitement about representing women who can break stereotypes.

The Miss America pageant saw a fierce competition among 51 talented women in Orlando. Each contestant displayed their skills in various categories, including a fitness runway walk, a "hot topics" discussion, a talent show, and an evening gown presentation, according to People magazine.

Aside from her impressive military background, Marsh is also known for her philanthropic endeavors. She is the founder of the Whitney Marsh Foundation, an organization that pays homage to her late mother, who tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2018. The foundation raises funds for oncology research, showcasing Marsh's dedication to making a difference in the field.

Additionally, Marsh is currently serving as a graduate intern at Harvard Medical School. Utilizing her passion for technology, she aims to leverage artificial intelligence to enhance early detection of pancreatic cancer, highlighting her commitment to combating this deadly disease.

Madison Marsh's victory not only celebrates her personal achievements but also serves as an inspiration for women serving in the military and those breaking barriers in various fields. Her historic win showcases the limitless potential of individuals who defy stereotypes and strive to make a positive impact on society.

The newly crowned Miss America 2024, Madison Marsh, embodies strength, intelligence, and compassion. As she embarks on her reign, she will undoubtedly continue making remarkable contributions to society, both as a role model for women in the military and as an advocate for cancer research.