The final night of preliminary competitions highlighted the four pillars of the Miss America Organization–style, success, service, and namely, scholarship. Chairman of the Board Sam Haskell announced that the 2013 MAO titleholder will work to enhance education throughout the country during her year of service. Miss America 2013 will work with U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan in addition to promoting science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum.

It is because of MAO's dedication to furthering the educational aspirations of young women through scholarships that many go on to realize their dreams. Two scholarships were awarded Thursday night. Lifestyle and fitness in swimwear winner Miss Washington Mandy Schendel received a $1,000 scholarship. Miss North Dakota Rosie Sauvageau, with voice smooth and golden gown flowing, performed her arrangement of Bob Dylan's "To Make You Feel My Love." For her singing and piano playing, she was awarded a $2,000 scholarship.

Haskell said in the years to come, he and the MAO board are working to reestablish Miss America as one of the country's top icons. By empowering women across the nation in their educational goals, MAO will do just that.

Written by: Erika Fifelski, fourpoints staff writer