UHRICHSVILLE — Olivia Fosson, Miss Ohio 2025 and Miss Clayland 2025, is preparing to compete in the Miss America competition in September.
Fosson is scheduled to participate in a private interview Sept. 2, followed by fitness, eveningwear and onstage questions Sept. 3 and talent Sept. 4. The final night of competition is planned for 7 p.m. Sept. 7, according to a community announcement.
Miss Ohio 2025 Olivia Fosson is ready to compete in the Miss America competition Sept. 2-7 in Orlando, Florida.
Fosson is a juris doctorate candidate at The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and a former musical theater major at Oklahoma City University. After a career-ending injury in college caused permanent nerve damage, she turned her experience into purpose, launching Body Neutral: Connect, Create, Celebrate, a program that empowers people of all ages to build self-worth beyond body image.
In March, Fosson published her first children’s book, “Rocky’s Race,” which teaches the fundamentals of healthy living. She also serves as a national ambassador for Project HEAL and the With All organization.
Ready to represent Ohio at Miss America
Raised on a Christmas tree farm in Appalachia Ohio, Fosson is proud to amplify her community and inspire young Appalachian girls to believe they can move mountains. Now, she’s taking that spirit to the national stage.
“I have been busy since June 21. Miss America preparation has been in full swing — talent rehearsals, interview preparation and keeping my mental and physical well-being in tip-top shape,” Fosson said in the announcement. “I had an absolutely incredible send-off party in my hometown earlier this month, and I could not be more grateful and humbled to have all of Lawrence County rallying behind me. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to travel the state, promoting Body Neutral and sharing ‘Rocky’s Race’ with students of all ages.”
Fosson said some of her favorite appearances thus far include presenting at the Ohio Valley Emmy Awards, singing the National Anthem and taking a plane ride at Mansfield Airport Days, hosting a book signing in her hometown of Kitts Hill.
A send-off party for Fosson was held in early August in her hometown of Kitts Hill, Ohio.
A busy year ahead
Although she has not been able to return to Tuscarawas County due to her internship and schedule, Fosson plans to be back in the area following the Miss America competition, according to the announcement. She plans to return for the Polar Express Train Ride and to visit area schools.
“As I prepare to leave for Miss America, I am continually reminded of my mission: uplifting Appalachian communities and promoting self-confidence in young boys and girls throughout the Buckeye State. I am beyond excited to show America what Ohio is all about,” Fosson said.
Martha Campbell, executive director of the Miss Clayland Scholarship Program, said she and Diana Lindsay were able to attend Fosson’s send-off celebration in Lawrence County.
“We believe that she is ready to compete on the next level. We are constantly reminded of her humbleness, kindness and purpose,” Campbell said in the announcement.
Fosson is expected to attend and perform at the Miss Clayland Scholarship Program on Sept. 20 at Claymont High School. However, if she wins the title of Miss America, her appearance in Tuscarawas County may be delayed, according to the announcement.
Fosson was crowned Miss Clayland in September 2024 and won the title of Miss Ohio in Mansfield in June.
This story was created by Jane Imbody, jimbody@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct/.
This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Miss Ohio 2025 prepares for Miss America competition