06/19/2026
My sweet Nat girl,
One year ago you held my hand as I walked into the Miss America Opportunity for the very first time. At the end of the week when your name was called and your crown was placed on your head, I felt a sense of pride. I was proud that I had found a new best friend who showcased so much courage, kindness, passion, and authenticity. I will never forget the feeling of watching you win... and plopping down off of the risers so I could hug you faster, and also sobbing like a maniac onstage because I was so happy for you! I was so glad that the judges had seen what I saw in you.
Over the past year, I think everyone who has been following your journey can agree that you've grown so much. Not only with the quantity of appearances, but also the quality of your work. You have made a monumental shift in the remembrance and appreciation of our veterans. After loosing Lew, I am so proud of how you turned that hurt into an even stronger passion for what you do. He is watching down, and is so proud of you. Always remember, this is exactly why you do what you do. Lew will forever be remembered and loved by all of the people whose lives you were able to touch.
As you close this chapter and begin taking the next steps in your journey, remember that you are forever Miss Wisconsin's Teen 2025. However, you have more in store. This was an amazing chapter of your life. You fulfilled your title beautifully, and now you have SO much more to do. This was just the start.
I am so proud of you Natalie. Thank you for being my best friend inside and outside of this organization. I'm honored to have witnessed your journey so far with you as a sister of my own.
As you pass down your title tonight, remember that I love you, and Wisconsin loves you, with or without a crown and a sash. You will always be a part of my family, I'm so proud of you💕
