Madison’s Mission

“My journey through the Whitney Marsh Foundation reflects an unwavering spirit needed to combat pancreatic cancer.”

Having graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and currently serving as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force, I proudly hold the dual titles of Miss America 2024 and the first active-duty Air Force officer to be crowned Miss America at the state level.

My journey takes root in a poignant chapter—a chapter marked by the loss of my mother to pancreatic cancer at the tender age of 41. This profound event stirred within me a commitment to change, leading to the creation of the Whitney Marsh Foundation (WMF) alongside my family. As its President and Founder, I have endeavored to embody resilience and foster hope, one small step at a time.

Armed with a degree in physics and currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy at the esteemed Harvard Kennedy School, my presence is of an earnest effort to make a difference. As a graduate intern with Harvard Medical School, I navigate the realm of artificial intelligence to contribute to the early detection of pancreatic cancer—a disease with a mere five-year survival rate of 12%.

The Whitney Marsh Foundation stands with a quiet strength in the ongoing battle, having raised a quarter of a million dollars for pancreatic cancer research. Beyond the role of a fundraiser, WMF serves as a catalyst for change, organizing medical seminars and creating a platform for the exchange of research.

In a modest initiative, WMF has begun a pilot program to support financially struggling families at risk for pancreatic cancer, providing essential blood screening. This endeavor ensures that no family is left behind in the pursuit of early detection. With a steadfast commitment to progress, WMF endeavors to reshape the narrative surrounding pancreatic cancer—one that claims over 78% of patients within one year of diagnosis.

As Miss America, I seek to be an advocate for change. My journey through WMF reflects an unwavering spirit needed to combat pancreatic cancer. With each unassuming step forward, I aim to lead us towards a future where statistics cease to define our battle against this formidable foe.

In my hands, this Miss America crown becomes a symbol not of grandiosity but of hope—a reminder that even in the face of personal tragedy, a heart’s dedication can spark a movement that saves lives. Together, let us stand united against pancreatic cancer, with humility guiding us toward a brighter, cancer-free future.