Miss America 2012: Laura Kaeppeler of Wisconsin wins title

Miss America 2012 winner crowned

Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler was crowned the winner of Miss America 2012, the 91st Miss America pageant. Kaeppeler won a $50,000 scholarship grant and 1-year title run. She also took home an additional $2,000 in scholarship funds for her victory in the preliminary talent competition.

Kaeppeler was crowned after answering a question about whether or not Miss America should be allowed to declare a political affiliation.

“Miss America represents everyone, so I think the message to political candidates is that they represent everyone as well,” she said. “And so in these economic times, we need to be looking forward to what America needs, and I think Miss America needs to represent all.”

Miss Oklahoma Betty Thompson came in second while Miss New York Kaitlyn Monte placed third.

The coronation night was held at the Theatre for the Performing Arts at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on January 14, 2012.

Here are the results of Miss America 2012:

Miss America 2012 - Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler
1st runner-up - Miss Oklahoma Betty Thompson
2nd runner-up - Miss New York New York Katilin Monte
3rd runner-up - Miss Arizona Arizona Jennifer Sedler
4th runner-up - Miss California - Noelle Freeman

Top 10

Miss Illinois Hannah Smith
Miss Iowa Jessica Pray
Miss Louisiana Hope Anderson
Miss Tennessee Erin Hatley
Miss Texas Kendall Morris

Top 15

Miss Alabama Courtney Porter
Miss Florida Kristina Janolo
Miss South Carolina Bree Boyce
Miss North Carolina Hailey Best
Miss Virginia Elizabeth Crot