November 24, 2007, was the culmination of a dream for Emily Bey as she was crowned Miss Iowa Teen USA 2008. As the crown was placed on her head, tears mixed with smiles and excitement.

“I dreamed of winning this pageant and made it my goal, but when it happened, I could hardly believe it,” Emily said. “I am so honored and excited to represent Iowa and to have the opportunity to travel statewide and work with different charities.”

One of Emily’s areas of focus has been helping middle school girls recognize and deal with girl bullying. She developed her own program that she presents to girls, sharing her experiences and giving them the courage to face girl aggression and deal with it without turning to self-destructive behaviors.

As a foster sister, Emily has had the opportunity to serve as a mentor to young people in crisis. “I know I’m so fortunate to have a close, loving family that cares for me. It’s hard to see kids that are in bad family situations but I know my parents and I can provide a safe, loving temporary home for kids who need it most. I’ve learned so much from my experiences as a foster sister,” Emily said.

A senior at George Washington High School, Emily has been active in sports, including swimming, track and golf, where she earned a varsity letter her first year with the team and served as JV captain. She also serves on a student advisory committee to the principal and is active in SADD. Outside of the classroom, Emily is a very active volunteer in the community and with her church youth group. She is a volunteer counselor with Kids First, a non-profit that serves children in high-conflict divorces and she helps out at an area humane society. She has served with Meals on Wheels, Kids Against Hunger, Crossroads Mission, the Homeless Children’s Trust and Shrine Hospital patients.

Emily loves to travel and has had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. She also enjoys snow skiing, movies, shopping and spending time with her friends and pets.

Emily plans to attend Iowa State University, majoring in apparel merchandising. She envisions herself working for a high-fashion designer or marketer after college graduation.

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