“Poise under pressure” – that’s what it was all about the night Kaylee Grace Unverzagt won the Miss Minnesota USA 2008 title. All the young women that night wore beautiful gowns, which complemented their sparkling personalities. All had made the journey to the ballroom and across the stage several times, all with their eyes on the crown. Kaylee just kept thinking, “I’ll just be myself and hope for the best.”

Since she was a very young girl, Kaylee has been on an accelerated learning curve. At age 17, she had already graduated from high school and earned one full semester of college credits from the University of Minnesota. She has been a Member of the National Honor Society, World Language National Honor Society and lettered in academics, choir and varsity track.

Kaylee followed her personal passion for broadcast journalism, public relations, advertising and public speaking and is now a junior at the University of Minnesota, completing her major in Journalism and Mass Communications. Upon graduation, she plans to earn a law degree. Working part-time in a law firm now, focusing on asbestos-caused lung cancer cases, “has been an inspiration for me. It’s very fulfilling to know that my work has helped to improve the lives of others.”

Over many years, she has volunteered and raised funds for non-profit organizations including the Muscular Dystrophy Association, March of Dimes and Red Cross and raised awareness of HIV/AIDS and other social issues. Her commitment to community service includes summer mission trips to refurbish homes for families in life-challenging situations and tutoring elementary students.

She is now a mentor in the Kids ‘n’ Kinship program, “to help motivate young kids to achieve their dreams. I think it’s important for adults to offer their time and help children to grow – to become the best they can be! I want to help young kids learn how good it feels to achieve their potential, whether in sports, school or conquering a personal challenge. Often, that feeling of empowerment stays with them through their whole life.”

As Miss Minnesota USA 2008, Kaylee plans to take full advantage of this unique opportunity, through mentoring, fundraising and personal appearances to increase awareness of kids’ and families’ concerns, as well as support the official women’s causes of the Miss Universe Organization.

“At the national Miss USA competition, I hope to represent the Minnesota values I grew up with – a hard work ethic, caring for the well-being of others and sharing a positive attitude! I want to give something back to the community. I hope to make a difference in people’s lives.”

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