CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – The Miss America Organization has crowned Tess Ferm of Charleston as Miss America’s Teen 2026 Saturday in Orlando.
Ferm, a Porter-Gaud graduate and an incoming freshman at Furman University, has earned $58,000 in scholarships through the program. She says that she plans to study psychology to become a Child Life Specialist.
She says that in her role as national ambassador for the Miss America’s Teen program, she will encourage young women everywhere to dream, lead, and embrace their limitless potential, while also serving as a role model for her generation.
“Being Miss America’s Teen means representing possibility. It’s about showing that teens are not just the future, but the now — ready to lead, to innovate, and to make a real difference in our schools, our communities, and across the country. This crown is so much more than a crown, it’s a launchpad,” she said.
With her prior experience with food allergies, Ferm developed a campaign to spread awareness and to create safe and more informed communities. She was honored as the Quality of Life: Teens in Action Overall Award Winner for her work.
“Because of this program, I’ve had the chance to meet with legislators to advocate for my initiative, speak at press conferences, perform on stage, sharpen my interview skills, and learn how to serve as a brand ambassador. Most importantly, it has helped me grow my confidence, find my voice, and step into leadership. Miss America empowers young women to be bold, well-rounded, and ready to chase their goals.”
This is the third Miss America’s Teen South Carolina has produced and the first since 2009.
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