Ryan Miles
Miss Alabama USA
Madison Guthrie of Hoover was recently crowned Miss Alabama USA 2015. This was Guthrie’s first ever pageant. Photo courtesy of Sage Media Group.
Madison Guthrie, a former Spain Park student, was crowned Miss Alabama USA in November. The Shelton State interior design major is also nurturing a growing modeling career, already having worked brands such as ESPN, IZOD and MAC. Madison is the daughter of David and Ginger Guthrie. She will go on to compete for the title of Miss USA this summer.
How did you learn about the Miss USA competition?
I have always known about it and I have watched Miss USA for several years but a photographer I shoot with, Jack Bains, encouraged me to compete.
What made you want to participate? Did you have any experience with programs like this before?
I knew of Baskin Champion who won Miss Alabama Teen last year and I saw on social media all the modeling opportunities that unfolded for her. I had never competed in a pageant before but felt it was time to step out of my comfort zone and try something new.
Other that the outcome of winning, what was the most rewarding aspect of the process? What was the most challenging part of the experience for you?
It gives you the opportunity to be around a lot of women at one time. You can use that situation to be a light and set a good example for others to follow.
We all compare ourselves to something or someone and for me that was the hardest part. Prior to the competition, I’d sometimes compare myself to others and get discouraged. At times I can be a worrier, so I have to stay in constant prayer and remind myself to stay focused on my own journey and not worry about what I felt I lacked.
How are you balancing your other life commitments along with the demands of the Miss Alabama USA title?
I have decided to take a year off from school so that I can completely fulfill and enjoy my duties as Miss Alabama. Of course I have a social life too, so spending time with loved ones always stays a top priority for me.
What is the one goal you want to say you’ve achieved using the notoriety and influence associated with your title?
I want to be remembered as a Christian woman who set a high example for women of all ages. I feel I have already proved that you don’t have to be a “pageant girl” to win a pageant. I was able to succeed at something completely out of my comfort zone because I had faith. I hope that my strong faith inspires other women to go after what they once thought they never could achieve.
