Introduction
In a dazzling celebration of talent, purpose, and poise, Tess Ferm of Charleston, South Carolina, emerged victorious as Miss America’s Teen 2026, capturing not just a crown but the hearts of a nation. Held on September 6, 2025, at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida, the competition brought together 52 exceptional young women from across the United States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. But it was Ferm’s authenticity, advocacy, and charisma that set her apart.
This blog dives deep into Tess Ferm’s journey – from her roots in South Carolina to her national platform “From Fear to Freedom,” and the transformative impact she’s poised to make during her reign.
Table of Contents
👶 Childhood Roots in Charleston, South Carolina
Tess Ferm was born and raised in Charleston, a city known for its rich history, Southern charm, and vibrant arts scene. Growing up in this coastal haven, Tess was surrounded by a community that valued tradition and innovation in equal measure. Her upbringing was steeped in the values of service, education, and personal growth – principles that would later become the foundation of her pageant platform.
From an early age, Tess exhibited a natural curiosity and a strong sense of empathy. Her parents, recognizing her potential, encouraged her to explore a wide range of interests – from music and theater to science and public speaking. Charleston’s cultural landscape offered Tess ample opportunities to engage with the arts, and she quickly developed a love for performance and storytelling.
🏫 Academic Excellence at Porter-Gaud School
Tess Ferm’s educational journey began at the prestigious Porter-Gaud School, a private college preparatory institution in Charleston. Known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on character development, Porter-Gaud provided Tess with a nurturing environment to grow intellectually and socially.
At Porter-Gaud, Tess was more than just a student – she was a leader. She excelled in her coursework, particularly in subjects like literature, biology, and civic studies. Her teachers often praised her for her analytical thinking and her ability to connect classroom learning to real-world issues. But Tess’s impact extended beyond academics. She was actively involved in student government, theater productions, and community service initiatives.
One of her most notable contributions during her time at Porter-Gaud was her advocacy for food allergy safety. Having personally experienced severe, anaphylactic food allergies, Tess turned her challenges into a mission. She spearheaded an educational campaign that reached over 2,500 students and faculty members, raising awareness about allergy safety and emergency preparedness. Her efforts led to the installation of epinephrine auto-injectors across campus – a tangible legacy of her commitment to public health.
🎭 The Spark of Pageantry
While Tess Ferm’s academic and advocacy work laid a strong foundation, it was her entry into the world of pageantry that truly amplified her voice. She began participating in local competitions during her high school years, drawn by the opportunity to combine performance, public speaking, and philanthropy.
In June 2025, Tess was crowned Miss South Carolina’s Teen in Columbia, where she wowed judges with her rendition of “Tomorrow” from the musical Annie. Her performance was not just technically impressive – it was emotionally resonant, reflecting her optimism and belief in the power of change. This victory earned her a spot in the national Miss America’s Teen 2026 competition, held at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida.
👠 Stepping into Pageantry: Miss South Carolina’s Teen
Before she became a national titleholder, Tess Ferm earned the title of Miss South Carolina’s Teen. This win was not just a stepping stone – it was a proving ground. Representing her state, Tess competed in a series of rigorous segments including talent, fitness, evening gown, and on-stage questions. Each round tested not only her poise and presentation but also her ability to articulate her values and vision.
Her performance stood out for its authenticity. Judges and audiences alike were captivated by her confidence, clarity, and charisma. But it wasn’t just her stage presence that made her memorable – it was her message.
💡 Platform with Purpose: “From Fear to Freedom”
At the heart of Tess Ferm’s pageant journey is her philanthropic initiative, “From Fear to Freedom,” which focuses on food allergy safety and education. Inspired by personal experiences and a desire to create safer environments for children and families, Tess’s platform addresses a critical public health issue that often goes underrepresented.
Throughout her reign, Tess will travel across the country advocating for better awareness, resources, and policies surrounding food allergies. Her work includes speaking engagements, educational workshops, and legislative advocacy – proving that pageant queens are not just figureheads but changemakers.
After her crowning, Tess explained that holding the title of Miss America’s Teen is about representing possibility. She emphasized that teenagers are not only the leaders of tomorrow but are already capable of leading, innovating, and making a meaningful impact today.
🎤 The National Stage: Orlando and the Crown
The Miss America’s Teen 2026 competition, held at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, was a dazzling affair. With 52 contestants from across the United States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia, the event showcased the best and brightest of teen leadership and talent.
Tess Ferm’s journey through the preliminaries was marked by standout performances and unwavering composure. Her talent segment, fitness routine, and evening gown presentation all reflected months of preparation and a deep commitment to excellence. But it was during the on-stage question segment that Tess truly shined – her articulate and heartfelt responses resonated with judges and viewers alike.
When the final moment arrived, and Tess Ferm was announced as Miss America’s Teen 2026, the crowd erupted. It was a victory not just for Tess, but for every young girl watching who dreams of making a difference.
🏆 Beyond the Crown: Scholarships and Service
With her title, Tess Ferm received a $30,000 scholarship from the Miss America organization – a recognition of her academic promise and a boost toward her future goals. But the rewards of her journey extend far beyond financial support.
Tess was also honored with the “Quality of Life: Teens in Action Overall Award,” recognizing her outstanding community service and advocacy work. She was celebrated for her fundraising efforts on behalf of the American Heart Association and her commitment to creating safer environments for children with anaphylactic allergies.
👑 The Crown and the Cause
On September 6, 2025, Tess Ferm stood on the national stage and was crowned Miss America’s Teen 2026, triumphing over 51 other contestants from across the country. Her win was a testament to her poise, talent, and unwavering dedication to her platform, “From Fear to Freedom,” which focuses on food allergy safety and education.
As part of her reign, Tess received a $30,000 scholarship to support her educational pursuits. But more importantly, she gained a national platform to advocate for legislative change and public awareness around food allergies. Her work includes filming public service announcements, designing educational placemats for restaurants, and collaborating with organizations like Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE).
🎓 College Life at Furman University
Following her high school graduation, Tess Ferm enrolled at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina – a liberal arts institution known for its academic rigor and commitment to civic engagement. As a freshman, Tess continues to pursue her passion for public health and policy, likely majoring in a field that aligns with her advocacy work.
At Furman, Tess is already making waves. She balances her responsibilities as Miss America’s Teen with her coursework, campus involvement, and ongoing outreach efforts. Her presence on campus is both inspiring and energizing, as she encourages fellow students to engage in meaningful dialogue around health equity and youth empowerment.
🏆 Honors and Recognition
Tess Ferm’s impact has not gone unnoticed. In addition to her pageant titles, she was named the American Heart Association’s South Carolina Teen of Impact for 2025 – a recognition of her contributions to health education and community service. She also received the Quality of Life: Teens in Action Overall Award, underscoring her commitment to using her platform for positive change.
💡 Platform with Purpose: “From Fear to Freedom”
At the heart of Tess Ferm’s campaign is her philanthropic initiative, From Fear to Freedom, which focuses on food allergy safety and education. Inspired by personal experiences and a desire to create safer communities, Tess has become a vocal advocate for anaphylactic allergy awareness.
Her platform isn’t just a slogan – it’s a movement. Tess Ferm has:
- Met with legislators to advocate for allergy safety policies
- Spoken at press conferences and community events
- Created educational resources for schools and families
- Partnered with organizations to promote allergy-safe environments
In her own words:
“Being Miss America’s Teen means representing possibility. It’s about showing that teens are not just the future, but the now – ready to lead, to innovate, and to make a real difference in our schools, our communities, and across the country.”
🎤 The Competition: A Showcase of Excellence
The Miss America’s Tess Ferm competition is more than a beauty pageant – it’s a rigorous, multidimensional showcase of leadership, talent, and service. Contestants are judged on:
- Talent: Ferm’s performance highlighted her artistic flair and stage presence.
- Fitness: Demonstrating discipline and wellness.
- Evening Gown: Elegance and confidence.
- On-Stage Question: Intelligence, poise, and advocacy.
Tess’s ability to connect with the audience and judges alike was evident throughout the event. She wasn’t just answering questions – she was sharing a vision.
Among the top finalists were representatives from Alaska, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and Texas, but it was Tess who ultimately claimed the crown.
🏆 Beyond the Crown: Scholarships and Service
One of the most impactful aspects of the Miss America’s Teen program is its emphasis on education. Tess Ferm received $30,000 in scholarship money, which she plans to use toward her studies in psychology at Furman University. In total, she has earned $58,000 in scholarships, including awards for her community service and advocacy work.
She was also honored with the Quality of Life: Teens in Action Overall Award, recognizing her outstanding commitment to service and leadership. Her fundraising efforts for the American Heart Association further underscore her dedication to health-related causes.
🌍 A National Role Model
As Miss America’s Teen 2026, Tess Ferm will serve as a brand ambassador for the organization, traveling across the country to promote her platform and inspire young people. Her reign will include:
- Speaking engagements at schools and conferences
- Media appearances and interviews
- Collaborations with nonprofits and advocacy groups
- Mentorship opportunities for aspiring titleholders
Her message is clear: Teens are powerful agents of change. And she’s living proof.
📚 Education Meets Empowerment
Ferm’s academic journey is just beginning, but her vision is expansive. At Furman University, she’s pursuing a degree in psychology with the goal of becoming a child life specialist – a profession that supports children and families during medical treatments and hospital stays.
Her interest in this field is deeply personal and aligns perfectly with her platform. By combining her advocacy for allergy safety with her career aspirations, Ferm is creating a holistic approach to child wellness.
🌟 From Crown to Cause: Tess Ferm’s Mission
In a world where pageantry often conjures images of glittering gowns and dazzling smiles, Tess Ferm, crowned Miss America’s Teen 2026, is redefining what it means to wear a crown. Her reign is not just about elegance and poise – it’s about purpose. With a fierce commitment to advocacy and a heart rooted in service, Tess is using her platform to champion food allergy awareness and safety through her initiative, From Fear to Freedom. This blog explores her journey, her impact, and the legacy she’s building – one community at a time.
👑 The Rise of a Role Model
Tess Ferm’s ascent to the national spotlight began in Charleston, South Carolina. A graduate of Porter-Gaud School and now a freshman at Furman University, Tess has always balanced academic excellence with a deep sense of civic responsibility. Her crowning moment at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando on September 6, 2025, was more than a personal triumph – it was the beginning of a yearlong mission to educate, empower, and enact change.
Competing as Miss South Carolina’s Teen, Tess stood out among 52 contestants from across the country. Her performance, including a rendition of “Tomorrow” from Annie, showcased not just her talent but her optimism – a quality that would become central to her advocacy.
💡 From Fear to Freedom: A Personal Mission
Tess’s platform, From Fear to Freedom, is deeply personal. Having lived with severe, anaphylactic food allergies, she understands the fear and isolation that can accompany this condition. But rather than letting it define her, Tess transformed her experience into a mission to help others.
Her initiative focuses on:
- Food Allergy Safety Education: Tess has educated over 2,500 students and teachers about allergy awareness, emergency preparedness, and the importance of inclusivity in schools.
- Epinephrine Accessibility: She played a key role in installing epinephrine auto-injectors in schools, ensuring that life-saving treatment is available when needed.
- Creative Outreach: Tess designed over 1,000 food allergy activity placemats for local restaurants, turning dining out into a safer and more informed experience for children and families.
- Legislative Advocacy: She plans to work with South Carolina lawmakers to introduce policies that mandate allergy safety protocols in educational institutions.
Her work is not just reactive – it’s proactive. Tess is building systems that protect, educate, and empower those affected by food allergies.
🏆 Recognition and Impact
Tess’s advocacy has not gone unnoticed. She was honored with the Quality of Life: Teens in Action Overall Award, a prestigious recognition given to contestants who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service. She was also named the American Heart Association’s South Carolina Teen of Impact for 2025, further cementing her role as a changemaker.
These accolades are more than trophies – they’re testaments to the tangible difference she’s making in people’s lives.
🌍 National Outreach and Community Engagement
As Miss America’s Teen 2026, Tess’s responsibilities extend far beyond her home state. She will travel across the country, serving as a national ambassador for the Miss America’s Teen program and promoting her platform in schools, hospitals, and legislative chambers.
Her outreach includes:
- Public Service Announcements (PSAs): Tess is filming educational videos to raise awareness about food allergies and emergency response.
- Workshops and Seminars: She conducts interactive sessions with students, parents, and educators to foster understanding and preparedness.
- Partnerships with Nonprofits: Tess collaborates with organizations like Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) to amplify her message and expand her reach.
Through these efforts, Tess is not just spreading awareness – she’s cultivating a culture of empathy and action.
💬 Advocacy Through Storytelling
One of Tess’s most powerful tools is her voice. By sharing her personal journey, she connects with others on a deeply emotional level. Her storytelling is raw, honest, and inspiring. It reminds us that advocacy is not just about statistics – it’s about people.
In interviews and public appearances, Tess emphasizes the importance of turning adversity into advocacy. Her message resonates with teens navigating their own challenges, encouraging them to find strength in vulnerability.
📚 Education and Empowerment
Tess’s work is rooted in education – not just academic, but emotional and social. She believes that knowledge is the first step toward empowerment. Her programs aim to:
- Demystify Food Allergies: By explaining the science behind allergies and the importance of safety measures, Tess helps reduce stigma and misinformation.
- Promote Inclusivity: She advocates for allergy-friendly environments in schools, restaurants, and public spaces.
- Encourage Peer Support: Tess fosters a culture where students look out for one another, creating safer and more compassionate communities.
Her educational initiatives are designed to be accessible, engaging, and impactful – ensuring that every child, regardless of their health condition, feels seen and supported.
💖 The Heart Behind the Crown
What sets Tess Ferm apart is her authenticity. She’s not just fulfilling a role – she’s living a purpose. Her compassion, resilience, and dedication make her a beacon of hope for countless families dealing with food allergies.
Her reign is a reminder that beauty and service are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they’re most powerful when they coexist.
🔮 Looking Ahead: A Legacy in the Making
As Tess continues her journey, her impact will ripple far beyond her year as Miss America’s Teen. She’s laying the groundwork for lasting change – through legislation, education, and community engagement.
Her future plans include:
- Expanding “From Fear to Freedom” Nationwide: Tess aims to replicate her programs in schools across the U.S.
- Developing Educational Materials: She’s working on toolkits for teachers and parents to better manage food allergies.
- Mentoring Future Advocates: Tess wants to inspire other teens to use their voices for causes they care about.
Her legacy will be one of courage, compassion, and commitment.
📸 A Moment to Remember
The crowning moment in Orlando was electric. Tess Ferm stood center stage, surrounded by fellow contestants, mentors, and family, as the crown was placed on her head. The applause was thunderous, but the message was quiet and powerful: This is what leadership looks like.
Her Instagram post following the win captured the emotion perfectly:
“This crown is so much more than a crown – it’s a launchpad.”
✨ Final Thoughts
Tess Ferm’s ascension to Miss America’s Teen 2026 is a testament to the power of purpose-driven youth. She’s not just wearing a crown – she’s carrying a cause. Her story is one of resilience, advocacy, and leadership, and it’s a story that will continue to unfold in classrooms, hospitals, and communities across the country.
In a world that often underestimates teens, Tess Ferm stands tall as a reminder that age is no barrier to impact. She’s not just the face of a pageant – she’s the face of possibility.
Also read about “Cassie Donegan’s Story of Talent, Advocacy, and Triumph at Miss America 2026“.
Q1. Who is Tess Ferm?
Tess Ferm is a student from Charleston, South Carolina, who was crowned Miss America’s Teen 2026 on September 6, 2025, at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida.
Q2. What title did Tess Ferm win?
She won the national title of Miss America’s Teen 2026, representing South Carolina.
Q3. What is Tess Ferm’s platform?
Her platform is “From Fear to Freedom”, which focuses on food allergy safety, awareness, and education.
Q4. Why is Tess Ferm’s advocacy important?
Tess personally lives with severe food allergies. Her advocacy work aims to improve safety in schools, restaurants, and public spaces while raising awareness and pushing for policy changes.
Q5. Where did Tess Ferm go to school?
She studied at Porter-Gaud School in Charleston and is currently a student at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina.
Q6. What talent did Tess Ferm perform in the competition?
She performed a rendition of “Tomorrow” from the musical Annie during the Miss South Carolina’s Teen competition, which helped her advance to the national stage.
Q7. How much scholarship money did Tess Ferm receive?
As Miss America’s Teen 2026, Tess Ferm earned a $30,000 scholarship, adding to a total of $58,000 in scholarships she has received through pageantry.
Q8. What awards has Tess Ferm received besides the crown?
She was honored with the Quality of Life: Teens in Action Overall Award and named the American Heart Association’s South Carolina Teen of Impact for 2025.
Q9. What are Tess Ferm’s future goals?
Tess plans to study psychology at Furman University and hopes to become a child life specialist, continuing her mission to support children and families.
Q10. How is Tess Ferm using her year as Miss America’s Teen?
She will travel across the U.S. as a national ambassador, spreading awareness about food allergy safety, leading workshops, and inspiring teens to embrace leadership.