Whitefish grad crowned Miss Montana Collegiate

Whitefish’s Klaire Taylor will represent Montana in the Miss Collegiate America Pageant this July in Orlando, Fla.

Taylor, 20, is a 2012 graduate of Whitefish High School. She learned about the Miss Collegiate pageant at her sorority at the University of Montana where she is studying communications and entertainment management.

“It seemed like a great opportunity for me,” she said.

A natural on stage and under the spotlight, Taylor is excited about the national pageant in Orlando where she will compete against 52 other women.

While there is a fashion and evening gown component, there is no talent show or swimsuit contest. A portion of the pageant involves a question and answer session and a fashion show where judges look at a contestant’s style, confidence and self-respect.

“They’re looking more at the person inside the dress,” Taylor said. “You don’t have to be a size zero to compete. It’s how you feel comfortable in your own skin.”

As Miss Montana Collegiate, Taylor will be making appearances at local events and volunteering in the community. She is expected to act as a positive role model for other girls and young women.

Taylor plans to meet with high school freshman to talk about cyber-bullying and respect. Part of the pageant’s platform is to help create a respectful environment in schools.

“I also want to go to Helena to talk to legislatures about bullying and cyber-bullying,” she said. “This is the year it needs to change.”

She also plans to visit with and read to students at Muldown Elementary. Taylor already appeared in the Winter Carnival grand parade and took part in the Montana Special Olympics opening ceremony.

“I can’t wait until I get my crown and sash so I can get out there and help the community,” she said.

Taylor is currently looking for sponsorships to help her get to the pageant in Orlando. Contact her at klaire.taylor@umconnect.umt.edu. Visit her Facebook page at Miss Montana Collegiate America 2014.