Backstage with Miss Oklahoma
In December of 2019, Edmond-native Addison Price represented Oklahoma in the Miss America Pageant. “To have the support of my community means more to me than I can find words to describe. Honestly, it hasn’t fully set in that it actually happened. I keep waiting to wake up and realize it was all a dream,” Addison says, reflecting on her journey. Addison was chosen as the third runner up and awarded a scholarship. She was welcomed home by a cheering crowd at the airport. “I would have loved to bring the title home to Oklahoma, but I know I did my best, and I’m thankful for a Top 5 finish. Getting to come home to Edmond is always a win!”
Edmond was abuzz with excitement on the night of the competition. Addison handled each step with grace, but gave us insight to an unexpected twist: “The competition looked different this year. The celebrity judge panel gave immediate feedback to contestants. We had no idea this was going to happen until they started talking!”
A Moment of Humility and Gratitude
Between a whirlwind of rehearsals, press interviews and filming, Addison recalls a moment that brought it all into perspective: “I will never forget the first night of preliminary competition standing backstage as the show started. Through the curtains rang the voice of Nia Franklin, Miss America 2019, as she sang the national anthem. Each woman stood proudly with her state’s name across her chest and hand over her heart. Many of us had tears in our eyes. It was an unspoken moment of humility and gratitude.”
“Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved the thrill of competing. I started competing in dance when I was seven and danced from the time I was three. I get butterflies and nervous energy right before I go on stage, but as soon as I feel the warmth of the lights and see the audience, I feel a sense of peace come over me.” Addison says hearing her family’s voices cheering loudly above the crowd, deep breaths and prayers also help.
Addison claims to have been a shy child who came to life on stage. “My parents quickly saw the confidence and interpersonal skills I was developing through pageants.” The high value the pageant world places on community service also resonated with the family. “My parents exemplified the value of serving others.” The platform of Miss Oklahoma has allowed Addison to connect with and advocate for children who have learning differences.
A standout memory for Addison was the opportunity to speak about her social impact initiative, “The Dyslexic Difference,” to students and teachers at her alma maters, Clegern and Cheyenne. Addison attributes her success in overcoming dyslexia to the support she received through Edmond Public School System and to her parents, Shannon and Cris Price.
There are No Days Off
Addison is already halfway through her term as Miss Oklahoma. She says, “Being Miss Oklahoma is 100 times harder than I ever imagined but 1000 times more rewarding than I ever could have hoped for.” Addison went from being a full-time college student living in a sorority house to starting a full-time job, taking a year off from school, and living by herself. Addison states, “It’s a great honor and responsibility. Whether I’m pumping gas, at the gym, or running to Target, I’m always representing the Miss Oklahoma brand. There are no days off.”
In the spirit of the pageants, Addison gives us a backstage glimpse into her personality. She laughs and says, “I have many quirks or ‘Addi-isms’ I won’t go into those… I do like to get hyped up to the song ‘Baby’s Got Back’. I would call it a guilty pleasure, but I don’t feel guilty!” When asked what she would do with a day off, Addison says, “I am almost embarrassed to admit it, but my days off with no plans or obligations typically consists of an all- day Rom-Com movie marathon. If I am feeling really crazy, I will bring out a puzzle. A very typical 20-year-old day, right?”
You can keep up with Addison on Instagram @missamericaok, on Facebook @missoklahoma, or by tuning into her podcast “Living Visible.” Addison expresses gratitude for her Miss America scholarship. She plans to continue her education at Oklahoma State University and to study abroad. Addison says she feels proud to call Edmond home. The feeling is mutual.
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