The Miss America Organization announced that Jessica Baeder, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen 2018, has been appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. She follows the footsteps of her father, grandfathers, and great grandfathers who all served in the military, said a press release from MAO.
As Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, Jessica travels the country speaking to audiences about her platform, “Healthy Food For All,” and acts as the official National Teen Goodwill Ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. She has spent over 800 hours of volunteer time dedicated to providing healthy food options for all communities and has created two innovative programs. Her “Fresh Fruit 4 Kids” campaign makes baskets of fresh fruit at grocery stores available for children to sample for free, promoting healthy snacks. “Jessica’s Pantry” is a food drive initiative created to supplement summer lunch programs for low income children.
Having become a second-degree black belt at the age of 9, Jessica combines her Tae Kwon Do skills and philanthropic spirit to teach “Fit for Life” lessons at schools, emphasizing nutrition and fitness. MAO said in the release Jessica wants to ensure that everyone has the information and opportunity to make good decisions about their health. She is committed to hands-on service, being a voice for positive change, and creating a nation of healthier children and families.
“We wish Jessica the best of luck with her future endeavors at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point,” said the release from the Miss America Organization.
