06/28/2026
Second Runner-Up to Miss Connecticut!
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I am on CLOUD NINE right now! This year's competition was so different for me: more joyful, mindful, passionate, and calm. I truly haven't had as much fun as I have this year since my first ever local. Every step of the way I was surrounded by my village and chosen family, feeling more grounded in every (literal and metaphorical) step I took.
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I have endlessly been speaking about taking chances on dreams and goals, and this was definitely a year I did. I finally got to sing opera (something I have wanted to do since age 9), told my story more authentically after tearing down my walls, and found my purpose again not in a destination, but the pathway that winds and changes. I kept thinking, if little Michaela was sitting in that audience, she would be so proud. Here's to accomplished dreams today and more for the future.
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Thank you to my whole village of people behind me! To Landry Champlin | Pageant & Personal Branding Coach , Sunny Day Pageant Consulting & Coaching , and Sam Williams , thank you for making me not only create an impactful year of service but also prepare me for on-stage. To Claire S. Marchand | Photographer and Keely Lozier , thank you for always reminding me of my beauty and worth with your beautiful work. To CT Spray Tans | CT Spray Tan Training | CT Bridal Makeup and ✨Atiana's Boutique- TOP PROM STORE✨ , thank you for making me feel the most beautiful I have felt on-stage in a very long time. To my class sisters, I am so grateful for your heart, grit, and companionship that made this week worthwhile. To our new Miss Connecticut , YOU DID IT! I remember our talk a few months ago where you said you would stand up on that stage to show others like you that you were willing to fight and give them a place in every room--because they belong. And that is exactly what you did. You shined through all of the dark, and just know you are right where you are called to be.
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