The Sheraton Hotel in Bloomington, MN was filled with emotion on November 25, 2007 as Sarah Sprayberry was crowned Miss Minnesota Teen USA 2008. The 16-year old, first-time pageant contestant from St. Paul, Minnesota, was overcome with excitement and joy as she felt the Miss Minnesota Teen USA sash placed over her shoulder, and heard the applause and cheers of her friends and family.

“I am so grateful to have this honor,” said Sarah, following the pageant. “First and foremost, this is an opportunity for me to speak with teenagers around the state about issues we care about the most,” said Sarah. “Second, I have the privilege of representing my home state of Minnesota at the Miss Teen USA competition this spring. What an amazing honor.”

A junior in high school, Sarah is a full-time student at Inver Hills Community College as a Post-secondary Education Option (PSEO) student. This program allows her to take college-level courses in preparation for a pre-medicine major.

Sarah is truly a ‘people person’. Every teacher since pre-school has called her Little Miss Social Butterfly. “I love meeting and learning about people,” said a delighted Sarah. “This title is a dream come true.”

During the summer months, Sarah stays close to the water. She is a certified lifeguard and is employed by the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board. On her days off, she and her friends and family return to the water where she enjoys boating and water-skiing. Sarah admits that her favorite place in the whole world is Green Lake in Spicer, Minnesota; a place she refers to as Heaven on Earth.

Sarah is a volunteer at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Minneapolis. “I work as an escort, so I get plenty of time to talk with patients and their families on our trips to various departments,” explained Sarah. “I believe that by sharing my time with these great patriots, I am thanking them for their service, and showing my respect for their courage. But, truthfully, I benefit the most from our time together.”

Sarah’s other hobbies include singing, listening to music (Country Western is her favorite), and spending as much time as possible with her friends, family, and little Westie dog, Lizzy.

Sarah is looking forward to an exciting, event filled year. “I want to take advantage of every available opportunity. I don’t want to miss out on a thing,” says a very energetic Sarah.

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