Nia Franklin Miss America 2019 Visits North Carolina with NCMEA to Advocate for the Arts

RALEIGH, NC (March 14, 2019) Nia Franklin Miss America 2019, an arts education advocate with a Masters in Music Composition, traveled to Raleigh this week to bring awareness to “Music in our Schools” month with the North Carolina Music Educators Association. Franklin is a North Carolina native who won the title of Miss America 2019 this past September as Miss New York.

On Tuesday, Franklin met with the Millbrook Advanced Choir where she spoke with students about pursuing their passions, dedicating themselves to their craft, and following their dreams.

“The students at Millbrook High School were a joy to be around, and they even performed three music selections for me!” said Franklin. “They shared why music is so important to them in their school.  The most common thread was that music gives them a great sense of community. It was important for me to visit with these students, and they are an example of why music should be in all schools!”

Tuesday evening, Franklin attended a reception hosted by the North Carolina Music Educators Association, where she performed for attendees and discussed how her education in the arts has lead her to where she is today. 

On Wednesday, the North Carolina Music Educators Association spent time with Franklin at the North Carolina State Legislative building. There, Franklin met with lawmakers like Sen. Paul Lowe Jr., Rep. Verla Insko, Speaker of the House Tim Moore, and Senate President pro tempore Phil Berger to talk about the importance of keeping and funding the arts in all North Carolina schools.

“It was my honor and privilege to view the State Capitol from so many different perspectives, especially in support of the NCMEA,” said Franklin. “It was a joy to hear so many legislators proclaim their support of the arts and also my chance to advocate for them.” 

Following her meetings, Franklin joined in the North Davidson High School Choir, her alma mater, before addressing both the House and Senate where she performed God Bless America and the national anthem. You can see them sing HERE.

Visiting with students across the country is just one part of Franklin’s job. In addition to her work with NCMEA, Franklin has worked with the likes of Lincoln Center, ASCAP, and Juilliard School to bring attention to the need for more arts education in schools. 

Along with her arts advocacy, Franklin is the national ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (#ChildrensHospitalsWeek is next week!) and serves as a partner for Sing for Hope, an international organization. 

Source: Miss America Organization email