Abbie Stockard, a nursing student and cheerleader from Alabama, captured the nation’s heart when she was crowned Miss America 2025 on January 5 at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida. The 22-year-old, hailing from Vestavia Hills, Alabama, not only impressed judges with her talent and eloquence but also won over audiences with her passion for community service and her dedication to making a difference in the healthcare field.
Early Life and Family Background
Abbie Stockard was born and raised in the suburban town of Vestavia Hills, just south of Birmingham, Alabama. Her upbringing was deeply influenced by her family, especially her parents, Brad and Kim Stockard. Brad is a medical sales representative, while Kim works as a pharmacist. Their careers in the medical field significantly shaped Abbie’s aspirations and values, fostering her interest in nursing and healthcare.
Abbie grew up with a twin brother, Bradley, and a younger sister, Lilly. The Stockard household emphasized education, compassion, and hard work, values that Abbie carried into every endeavor. The family’s strong bonds and supportive environment created a foundation for her success.
Education and Early Achievements
Abbie attended Vestavia Hills High School, where she excelled academically and became a prominent member of the Rebelette Dance Team. Dance has been a significant part of her life since she was two years old. She trained rigorously at the Jackie O’Neal School of Dance and later at the Birmingham Dance Theater.
After graduating high school in 2021, Abbie enrolled at Auburn University, where she pursued a degree in nursing. She quickly became an active participant in university life, joining the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and the Tiger Paws dance team. Her leadership and charisma earned her the respect of her peers and set her apart as a role model.
A Champion for Advocacy and Community Service
Abbie’s passion for community service became evident during her teenage years. She has long been an advocate for raising awareness about cystic fibrosis, a cause close to her heart. Her best friend, Maddie Hagler, has lived with cystic fibrosis, and Abbie has been by her side, supporting her through numerous challenges.
For over a decade, Abbie has participated in the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Great Strides Walk, raising funds to support research and treatment efforts. She has also organized events, delivered speeches, and collaborated with healthcare professionals to increase public understanding of the disease. Her advocacy work has inspired many and showcased her dedication to making a tangible impact.
Abbie Stockard’s Pageantry Journey
Abbie’s journey in pageantry began during her freshman year of college when she entered her first competition. What started as a casual interest soon turned into a passion that would redefine her life. Over the years, she earned titles such as Miss Cahaba Valley 2022, Miss Trussville 2023, and Miss Hoover 2024.
Her crowning achievement came in 2024 when she was named Miss Alabama, granting her the opportunity to compete in the Miss America 2025 pageant. During the national competition, Abbie delivered a breathtaking contemporary dance performance to Lauren Daigle’s “You Say,” highlighting her technical skill and emotional depth.
In the interview segment, she addressed pressing issues such as unemployment with clarity and conviction, showcasing her intelligence and compassion. Her ability to connect with both judges and audiences propelled her to victory, earning her the prestigious title of Miss America.
Abbie Stockard’s Parents
Central to Abbie’s story are her parents, Brad and Kim Stockard, who have been instrumental in shaping her character and supporting her dreams. As professionals in the medical field, Brad and Kim instilled in Abbie a strong sense of responsibility and the importance of serving others.
Their encouragement played a pivotal role in her pursuit of both academic and extracurricular achievements. From cheering her on at dance recitals to supporting her decision to enter pageantry, Brad and Kim were unwavering in their belief in Abbie’s potential.
Abbie often speaks about the profound influence her parents have had on her life, crediting them with instilling values of perseverance and kindness. Their guidance has been a constant source of strength throughout her journey.
Future Aspirations
With the title of Miss America, Abbie Stockard is determined to make an even greater impact. Her immediate plans involve expanding her advocacy for cystic fibrosis awareness on a national scale. She hopes to collaborate with healthcare organizations, leverage social media platforms, and inspire others to contribute to the cause.
Abbie also has her sights set on a long-term career in healthcare. She plans to specialize in pediatric nurse anesthesia and dreams of working at Children’s of Alabama hospital, where she can combine her passion for caregiving with her technical expertise.
A Role Model for Many
Abbie’s story resonates with people across the nation, not only because of her achievements but also because of her authenticity and relatability. She represents a new generation of role models who blend intelligence, compassion, and resilience.
Throughout her reign as Miss America, Abbie aims to continue inspiring young women to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Whether through her advocacy work, public speaking engagements, or social media outreach, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy of service and empowerment.
Conclusion
Abbie Stockard’s journey from Vestavia Hills to the Miss America stage is a testament to her determination and the unwavering support of her family, particularly her parents, Brad and Kim. With a strong foundation in values and a heart for service, Abbie has achieved remarkable success while remaining grounded in her commitment to helping others.
As she embarks on her reign as Miss America 2025, Abbie is poised to use her platform to effect meaningful change. Her story serves as an inspiration, reminding us all of the power of perseverance, community, and compassion.
