UCO Music Theatre Student Lauren Nelson wins

the 2007 Miss America Pageant

January 30, 2007

University of Central Oklahoma student Lauren Nelson was crowned Miss America 2007 Jan. 29 in Las Vegas. Nelson, age 20, is a music theatre major at UCO.

With the title, Nelson won a $50,000 scholarship to continue her education.

"Lauren is a lovely composed young lady with an impressive academic record and a wonderful voice," said Billie Thrash, a lecturer for the UCO School of Music.

"She has managed a busy school schedule with an amazing work ethic and grace all the while serving as Miss Oklahoma State Fair and then Miss Oklahoma."

Nelson sang, “You’ll be in my heart,” for the Miss America talent competition.

Her scholastic ambition is to obtain a Master’s Degree in Music Theater and her career ambition is to become a Broadway Performer.

She said in her interview portion of the competition that she loved Oklahoma, but wanted to move to New York following graduation to pursue her career.

This is the second year in a row that a Miss Oklahoma has won the crown.

Page updated 1/30/07