On Saturday evening, Katie Levasseur, a 20 year-old from Burlington, was chosen as the new Miss Vermont.  Held at the South Burlington High School Performing Arts Center, the Miss Vermont Scholarship Competition featured eleven contestants from around the state.
Moments after being selected, Levasseur shared her excitement about winning the Miss Vermont title.  “I am already looking forward to my duties this year - traveling, meeting new people and getting the word out about my platform, which is Youth of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow” said Levasseur.

As Miss Vermont, Levasseur receives $7,250 in scholarships, over $12,000 in prizes, and the opportunity to compete for the Miss America title in Las Vegas, Nevada in January 2012.  Currently a student at University of Vermont, Levasseur is majoring in Political Science and hopes to pursue a career as a Public Policy Analyst.

During her year as Miss Vermont, Levasseur will travel throughout Vermont advocating her platform issue. "Many people do not believe that youth have the motivation or sense of responsibility to enact change in their communities.  By working together, our generation can positively alter this mindset and take responsibility for the future of our communities," said Levasseur.  She will talk to various government representatives, business leaders, community groups and citizens-at-large, urging them to get involved in fostering leadership skills and qualities in today's young people.

Susan J. Lackey,  president of the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization, commented on the new Miss Vermont.  "Katie embodies the qualities a role model for young women and girls should have,” said Lackey. “She’s talented, ambitious and accomplished.  We are excited about working with her this year.”

The Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization awarded a total of $19,650 in cash scholarships to contestants receiving awards during the final and preliminary competitions, including:

First Runner-Up -     Kimberlee Supernaw of Brattleboro
Second Runner-Up - Nydelis Ortiz of Essex
Third Runner-Up - Caroline Kemp of Richmond   
Fourth Runner-Up - Alayna Westcom of Bakersfield
Miss Vermont Sisterhood Spirit Award - Kimberlee Supernaw of Brattleboro
Miss America Scholar Award - Alayna Westcom of Bakersfield
Miss America Community Service Award - Jeanelle Achee  of Rochester
Children's Miracle Network Miracle Maker - Kimberlee Supernaw of Brattleboro