McPherson Crowned Miss Montana's Teen 2024

Savage teen Emma McPherson was crowned Miss Montana's Teen 2024 in Billings at the MSU Billings Petro Theatre on July 13. McPherson is the daughter of Adam and KaCee McPherson and will be entering her sophomore year at Savage School this fall.

McPherson, Miss Richland County's Teen, was crowned the 2024 Miss Montana's Teen by Julia Kunau, the 2023 titleholder. McPherson, who is 15 years old, not only took home the crown but also won the Overall Talent, Evening Gown, and Health & Fitness Awards. Her first runner-up was Gracie Otten, Miss Glasgow's Teen. Emma's talent was a vibrant tap dance to Dolly Parton's "9 to 5," and her Community Service Initiative, "Find Your Voice: Autism Awareness," highlights her dedication tomaking a difference.

Both Miss Montana Kaylee Wolfensberger and McPherson will proudly represent the state of Montana throughout the year and will head to Orlando, FL, in January to compete for the titles of Miss America and Miss America's Teen.

As a small child McPherson and her mother, KaCee, loved watching the Miss America Pageant together. She got her start in pageants by entering a kids pageant in Watford City. She then moved on to win the 2021 Miss Montana Pre-Teen Volunteer Pageant.

McPherson owes some of her success to Cutting Edge Dance Studio. "I always give props to Jennifer Carlile, the director of Cutting Edge Dance Studio, because so many girls that have come from her studio have held titles," KaCee stated.

In addition to traveling the state to represent the Miss Montana Teen program, McPherson will be making a difference in other ways. She volunteers at local events, helps to organize fundraisers or lends a helping hand to those in need. She believes in the power of community and the importance of making a positive difference. She also plans to assist local ROI participants during Helping Fridays.

One of the causes closest to her heart is her Community Service Initiative (CSI) called "Find Your Voice", which focuses on spreading Autism Awareness. This initiative is deeply personal to her because she has seen firsthand the impact that understanding and support can have on individuals and families affected by Autism. Through "Find Your Voice", she aims to educate, advocate and promote inclusivity in our community, ensuring that everyone feels valued and understood.

McPherson's other passions include volleyball, golf, honor band and dance. As an adult she intends to become a speech pathologist. She plans to attend the University of Alabama when she graduates high school. She received a full ride scholarship to the university from the Miss Montana Scholarship Organization by winning the Miss Montana's Teen Pageant.