Miss Sanpete County and Outstanding Teen pageants set to shine in Ephraim
The excitement is building in Sanpete County as five talented young women prepare to compete for the coveted title of Miss Sanpete County, and six inspiring contestants vie for the Miss Sanpete County’s Outstanding Teen crown. The event, which promises to be an evening filled with grace, talent, and community spirit, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 7 p.m. at the Snow College Eccles Performing Arts Center in Ephraim. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with tickets priced at just $10, and free admission for children under 5.
This year’s pageant is particularly special, with Miss Utah Paris Matthews and the current Miss Sanpete County, Anna Johnson, serving as hosts. The pageant director, Sharee Geoff, expressed her admiration for the dedication, talent, and potential of this year’s contestants. “Each of these young women brings something unique and special to the pageant experience,” Geoff said. “They’ve worked incredibly hard and are excited to represent Sanpete County on stage. Their commitment to their community service initiatives and their desire to serve our county is truly inspiring.”
The Miss Sanpete County Organization is part of the larger Miss America Organization, a renowned non-profit that offers significant scholarship opportunities to young women across the nation. This program provides a platform for teens (ages 14-18) and women (ages 18-28) to earn scholarships, build networks, develop essential life and career skills, and make positive contributions to their communities.
The pageant will feature competitions in five categories: Private Interview (30%), On-Stage Conversation (10%), Health and Fitness (20%), Talent/HERStory (20%), and Evening Gown (20%). The contestants will also perform an opening number together, showcasing their unity and shared aspirations.
This year, the Miss Sanpete County organization is thrilled to award over $4,000 in scholarships to the winners, thanks to the generous support of local businesses and sponsors, as well as the continued backing from the Sanpete County Commission.
Meet the Miss Sanpete County Candidates

Harmony Durtschi
Harmony Durtschi of Ephraim is the daughter of Lawrence and Denise Durtschi. She will perform a vocal solo for her talent and her initiative, “Together Engaging Sanpete (T.I.E.S.),” aims to unite the community through engaging events.

Lakely Brotherson
Lakely Brotherson of Wales is the daughter of Jared and Liz Brotherson. She will showcase a jazz routine and advocate for organ donation through her initiative, “Give to Live.”

Abriana Corona
Abriana Corona of Centerfield, daughter of Pablo and Mayra Corona, will perform a self-choreographed lyrical solo. Her initiative, “Dance, Movement Towards Better Health,” focuses on the transformative power of physical activity and mental health.

Makazsha Harward
Makazsha Harward of Spring City is the daughter of Andy Christensen. She will recite an original poem and raise awareness for homelessness through her initiative, “The Change Candle.”

Ava Jensen
Ava Jensen of Mt. Pleasant, daughter of Kyle and Aimee Jensen, will perform a contemporary dance. Her initiative, “KISS: Keep it Safe and Sound,” advocates for safe and responsible driving.
Meet the Miss Sanpete County’s Outstanding Teen Candidates

Madison Shelley
Madison Shelley of Mt. Pleasant, daughter of Robert and Candice Shelley, will perform a vocal solo and play the guitar. Her initiative, “Kids in the Kitchen,” promotes healthy eating habits among youth.

Kate Craven
Kate Craven of Fairview, daughter of Michael and Chris Craven, will present “HER Story” and raise awareness for the Childhood Cancer Community.

Matty Owen
Matty Owen of Spring City, daughter of Jonathan and Jennifer Owen, will recite an original poem. Her social initiative, “Fighting Against Cancer,” aims to support cancer research and patient care.

Gema Burgess
Gema Burgess of Gunnison, daughter of Christopher and Ester Burgess, will sing “A Million Dreams” and inspire others through her initiative, “I Can,” which empowers individuals with disabilities.

Madison Moulton
Madison Moulton of Ephraim, daughter of Bryan and Kara Moulton, will perform a lyrical dance. Her initiative, “Building Connections Through Kindness,” seeks to strengthen community bonds through acts of kindness.

Kenadee Hopes
Kenadee Hopes of Moroni, daughter of Border Hopes and Erin Maier, will perform a contemporary dance. Her initiative, “Choosing You,” focuses on mental health support and suicide prevention.
This year’s pageant is not just a celebration of beauty and talent, but also a powerful platform for these young women to advocate for causes close to their hearts. The community is invited to come and support these inspiring contestants as they compete for the titles of Miss Sanpete County and Miss Sanpete County’s Outstanding Teen. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness the next generation of leaders take the stage and make a difference in our community.


