Presley Bennett Crowned Miss Arkansas' Teen 2026
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Presley Bennett, 17, of White Hall, Arkansas, was crowned Miss Arkansas' Teen 2026 on June 12, earning the opportunity to represent Arkansas at Miss America's Teen 2027.
Bennett competed as Miss Saline County's Teen and impressed judges with her Michael Jackson inspired tap dance talent and her commitment to youth mental health advocacy through her community service initiative, Peaceful Places. Her initiative focuses on promoting mental health awareness and well-being in schools, encouraging students to prioritize emotional wellness and create supportive environments for their peers.
Bennett was awarded $13,750 during this year’s competition. Her awards included Overall On-Stage Conversation, Preliminary Health and Fitness, Sharon Evans Bale We Are More, and Overall Arrival. The title of Miss Arkansas’s Teen includes a $10,000 scholarship sponsored by Pafford EMS.Â
As Miss Arkansas' Teen, Bennett will spend the coming year serving as a statewide ambassador for the Miss Arkansas Scholarship Program, making appearances across Arkansas while promoting her platform and inspiring young people throughout the state.
Bennett will represent Arkansas at Miss America's Teen 2027, which will be held on September 5, 2026, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. She will compete alongside delegates representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands for the national title.
The Miss Arkansas Scholarship Program is an official state preliminary to Miss America and is dedicated to empowering young women through scholarship, service, leadership, and personal achievement.
Top 5 Finalists:Â
Miss Arkansas’ Teen 2026 - Presley Bennett
1st Runner Up - Miss Natural State’s Teen, Lily BurnsÂ
2nd Runner Up - Miss Dogwood’s Teen, Makayla HarrellÂ
3rd Runner Up - Miss Diamond Lake’s Teen, Anabel Flores
4th Runner Up - Miss University of Arkansas’ Teen, Addison Bicker