Previously, Miss Virginia Camille Schrier was crowned Miss America in 2019, but carried the title for another year due to the COVID-19 cancellation of the 2020 pageant.
This is the third competition since Miss America eliminated the swimsuit portion of the pageant; today, contestants wow judges with a live talent portion, an evening-wear portion and an interview round.
Before being crowned Miss America 2022, Emma also spoke during the show about her older brother, who has Down syndrome, and her involvement with the Special Olympics ever since he was eligible to be an athlete.
As for her advice to her 12-year-old self, the winner reflected, “Not take life so seriously. Just let loose. Enjoy, because you only live once. That’s my life motto: YOLO.”
2021 Miss America is now streaming on Peacock.
(E! and Peacock are both part of the NBCUniversal family.)