Tiffany McConathy Mrs. Arkansas American 2023
- Derek Tokarzewski
- 5 days ago
- 20 min read
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine pageant interview with an incredible Tiffany McConathy Mrs. Arkansas American 2023
Full Name: Tiffany McConathy
Title/Year: Mrs. Arkansas American 2023
Pageant System: Mrs. America
Age: 36
Education Level: Masters
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Hobbies: swimming
Platform: Pediatric Cancer
Years Competed: 2023
Likes and Dislikes: animals, pageantry, summer and fall, traveling. Beautiful scenery. dislikes: onions, people who pretend to be someone they are not, super cold weather
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share a bit about who you are? Like, what are your passions outside of the pageant world? I am a wife, mother, friend, oncology nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, and volunteer. A lot of people ask me when do I get a chance to sleep haha! I have a passion for my family, and for helping others. I am also extremeley passionate about childhood cancer. I think it would be hard not to have passion for a subject that split my life into the "before and after".
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I’m curious about your education journey. What's it been like for you, any particular highlights or challenges?
I went to college immediately following high school. I had oringally been a "pre-med" major, but that didn't jive with my social life. I changed my major to psychology. This didn't feel right, so then I applied for nursing school. I was accepted into the Associate Program at National Park College and completed my first degree in 2011, as a RN. I continued going to school part time, because I worked full time. Working through school is definitely tough! I completed my Bachelors in 2014 and my Masters in 2016. I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner, but I have always practiced in Oncology. I obtained my Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner in January of 2020.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Women's empowerment is such a key topic. What does it mean to you personally?
Women's empowerment is a vital and multifaceted concept that means different things to different people, but to me, it embodies the essence of equality, opportunity, and respect. Personally, women's empowerment is about giving every woman the confidence and resources to pursue her dreams, irrespective of societal constraints or expectations.
Empowerment means recognizing and celebrating the unique strengths and talents that women bring to the table. It's about breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes that have historically limited women's roles in various fields, whether in leadership, STEM, sports, or the arts. In my journey, especially through my involvement in pageantry and community work, I have seen firsthand how empowered women can inspire and lead positive change. It reinforces my belief that when women are empowered, they not only transform their own lives but also make a lasting impact on their families, communities, and the world.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How did you get into pageants? What sparked your interest initially?
I was in pageants as a toddler, but remember not being a fan. But, what 3 year old is... A friend of mine was competing and I did not realize there were pageants for Mrs. She told me I should enter, and that I would have an amazing platform, and the pageant system would give me a voice to share my story. I had lost about 60 pounds and had felt more confident in myself so I started considering it!
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What motivated you to participate in your first pageant? Was there a defining moment?
On Nov 2, 2021, I heard the words no parent wants to hear.... "She has a mass". My beautiful 10 month old daughter was diagnosed with brain cancer. No one in my husbands family or my family had ever had cancer, so you can imagine the shock of the news. She was treated for 4 months before she was welcomed into heaven on Feb 19,2022. Shortly afterwards, I started a nonprofit in her honor, Princess Nora's Warrior Foundation. Funding for pediatric cancer is drastically lacking and I knew I had to be the change.
Fast forward to October 2023, I was told about the Mrs. Arkansas America pageant, and wanted to enter to continue to advocate for pediatric cancer patients in my daughter, Nora's, honor.
Pediatric cancer only receives 4% funding from the goverment. In 2022, over 90 drugs were approved for adults for cancer. Only 10 drugs have been approved for pediatric cancer over the past 4 DECADES.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Why did you choose to compete for your current title?
Honestly, I didn't know there were so many Mrs. pageant systems. The Mrs. America system was the only one I knew at the time but competing for this title was also a way to challenge myself and grow personally. It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, develop my public speaking skills, and connect with a diverse group of inspiring individuals. The journey taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of staying true to my values.
Moreover, I wanted to be a role model for my son, Zane, showing him the importance of perseverance, hard work, and the power of giving back to the community. Through this experience, I hoped to inspire other women and mothers to pursue their passions and make a difference, no matter the obstacles they might face.
Finally, the opportunity to represent Arkansas on a national stage was a profound honor. It allowed me to showcase the strength, compassion, and beauty of the women in my state, and to bring attention to the incredible community work happening here. Competing for and holding this title has been an incredible journey, one that has enriched my life and empowered me to continue making a positive impact.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I'd love to know more about your pageant system. Could you explain what it’s all about?
The Mrs. America Pageant system is a prestigious and well-respected organization that celebrates the achievements, beauty, and accomplishments of married women across the United States. Established in 1938, it is the longest-running competition of its kind and provides a platform for women to showcase their intelligence, and dedication to their communities. Key aspects of the Mrs. America Pageant system include empowerment, celebrating marriage and family, personal growth and development, national and international representation, networking, and a creating a platform for positive change.
Overall, the Mrs. America Pageant system is about celebrating the multifaceted lives of married women, honoring their contributions to society, and providing them with opportunities to shine and make a difference. All the contestants also work towards a common goal to raise awareness for opioid overdose through the Victoria's Voice Foundation.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What do you think sets your pageant director apart from others?
What sets my pageant director apart from others is their unwavering dedication, genuine compassion, and exceptional leadership skills. Our director goes above and beyond to create a supportive and empowering environment for all contestants, ensuring that each woman feels valued and motivated to be her best self. She remains dedicated to the contestants and winners throughout the entire year. She fosters a supportive, inclusive, and professional environment. Her leadership not only enhances our pageant experience but also equips us with the tools and confidence to make a lasting impact in our communities and beyond.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: During competitions, what are the key things you're judged on?
During the competition, we were judged on several aspects with the 3 major areas being interview, evening gown and swimsuit. The interview portion is a critical component where contestants are evaluated on their communication skills, confidence, and ability to articulate their thoughts and opinions. Judges look for authenticity, intelligence, and how well contestants can express their values, goals, and perspectives on various topics.
In the evening gown segment, contestants are judged on their elegance, poise, and stage presence. This portion assesses how gracefully they carry themselves, their fashion sense, and their ability to project confidence and composure in formal attire. The swimsuit segment focuses on physical fitness, confidence, and overall presentation. Judges evaluate the contestants' health, fitness level, and how confidently they present themselves in swimwear or fitness attire. It's about showcasing a healthy lifestyle and self-assurance.
We were also judged with an on-stage question. This segment tests contestants' ability to think on their feet and respond to challenging questions in front of an audience. Judges look for composure, quick thinking, and the ability to deliver thoughtful and articulate responses under pressure.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your competition experience been like? Any memorable moments or learnings?
Overall, my competition experience has been a blend of personal growth, meaningful engagements, and cherished memories. It's a journey that has shaped me in countless ways, and I am grateful for every moment, lesson, and opportunity to make a positive impact. Winning the Title of Mrs. Arkansas American 2023: This was undoubtedly one of the most memorable moments. It was the culmination of hard work, dedication, and support from my family and friends. Holding the title has been an honor and a platform to make a positive impact.
Participating in various community events, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns has been incredibly fulfilling. Meeting people from different walks of life and contributing to meaningful causes has enriched my experience. The friendships formed with other contestants are among the most cherished aspects of the experience. The sense of sisterhood, mutual support, and shared experiences have created lasting bonds. It's a reminder of the importance of uplifting and supporting each other. Each woman brings something unique to the competition, and learning from their experiences has been inspiring.
Representing Arkansas on a national stage was a thrilling experience. The camaraderie among contestants, the excitement of the competition, and the pride of representing my state were unforgettable.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Would you recommend your pageant system to others? If so, why?
Absolutely, I would highly recommend the Mrs. America Pageant system to others because it offers a unique and enriching experience that extends far beyond the competition itself. This pageant system is a fantastic platform for personal growth and confidence-building, providing numerous opportunities to develop skills such as public speaking, interview techniques, and stage presence. These experiences significantly enhance self-esteem and have a positive impact on various aspects of life. Additionally, the pageant empowers women to advocate for causes they are passionate about, offering a powerful stage to raise awareness, drive change, and make meaningful community contributions. The supportive community within the pageant system is another highlight, as the friendships and connections formed among contestants create a network of strong, like-minded women who uplift and encourage each other.
Furthermore, the Mrs. America Pageant system celebrates the roles of married women, emphasizing the importance of family values and commitment. It recognizes and honors the multifaceted lives of women, balancing their roles as wives, mothers, professionals, and community leaders. The pageant also opens doors to various professional opportunities, from networking with influential individuals to gaining visibility and recognition. It provides a platform to showcase talents, achievements, and leadership skills, paving the way for future endeavors.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Tell me about your advocacy or volunteer work. What causes are you passionate about?
I am deeply passionate about advocating for pediatric cancer awareness, a cause that holds a very special place in my heart. My dedication to this cause is inspired by the memory of Nora, and my desire to support children and families affected by this devastating illness. Throughout my reign, I have actively participated in various community events and fundraisers for my nonproft organization, aiming to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research. I have pioneered many different fundraising events including a continuing education conference for oncology nurses and nurse practitioners, a ladies night painting event, held 2 5ks, host blood drives and established a program at Arkansas Childrens Hospital called Nora's Legacy Project. This project provided a wagon, stuffed full of wants and necessities for the family when they hear the words "your child has cancer". Ironically, during my reign I reached a point of raising over 250,000 in 20 months and gained the attention of the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. I have now joined this organization and am a division of this organization. Seeing these young patients and their families has been incredibly fulfilling and humbling, reinforcing my commitment to making a positive impact. This advocacy work has not only allowed me to honor Nora’s memory but also to bring hope and support to those in need, reminding me daily of the power of compassion and community.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: With your title, what kinds of appearances or activities have you been involved in?
I have been involved in several activities over the past year. I have participated in multiple fundraising events from a nonprofit including a 5K, blood drive, and delivering wagons for Nora's Legacy project. I have also met with the governor to discuss legislation for pediatric cancer in the state of Arkansas. I am working diligently to change and amend some laws to include pediatric cancer funding. We were able to participate in our local Christmas parade and Sugar Plum ball. The sugar plan ball was an absolute honor. This is a fundraiser for one of the cancer centers in Arkansas. It is a daddy daughter dance where the daughters are crowned upon arrival. It was my honor to be able to crown these young ladies. I am also part Cherokee and able to meet with the Cherokee Nation Principal Chief, Chuck Hoskin, Jr.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share some of your achievements, both in and outside of pageantry?
My best achievements are deeply rooted in my roles as a wife, mom, family member, and good friend. These personal connections are the foundation of my strength and happiness. Professionally, I am extremely proud of earning my nurse practitioner degree and my advanced oncology nurse practitioner certification. These accomplishments have enabled me to provide specialized care and support to those battling cancer.
One of my proudest achievements is creating a successful nonprofit organization that has transitioned to become a division of the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Through this nonprofit, I have initiated numerous projects and community support programs for pediatric cancer patients, aiming to provide resources, hope, and a sense of community for families navigating this difficult journey. Balancing these personal and professional accomplishments has been incredibly fulfilling, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact both in my family and in the wider community.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: In such a competitive field, what do you think makes you stand out?
I believe what makes me stand out is my authenticity and my personal experience with my platform. My genuine passion for advocating for pediatric cancer awareness is deeply rooted in my own life experiences, in honoring the memory of Nora. This personal connection drives me to be fully committed and heartfelt in my advocacy efforts.
My authenticity shines through in everything I do. I strive to be true to myself and my values, whether I am on stage, interacting with the community, or engaging with fellow contestants and judges. This genuine approach helps me connect with others on a deeper level.
My personal experience with my platform gives me a unique perspective and a compelling story to share. It’s not just about raising awareness; it’s about sharing my journey, the challenges, and the triumphs, and how they have shaped my dedication to this cause.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I can only imagine how it feels to win. What was going through your mind when your name was announced as the winner?
When my name was announced as the winner, it felt like a dream come true. A whirlwind of emotions swept over me—excitement, disbelief, and overwhelming joy. The realization that I now had the incredible opportunity to share my platform on a national level and advocate for pediatric cancer awareness was truly profound.
In that moment, I thought about the journey that had led me to this point, the hard work, dedication, and support from my husband, son, family and friends. I felt immense gratitude for the chance to honor my angel, Nora, and to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families affected by pediatric cancer. It was a validation of my efforts and a reminder of the importance of staying true to my passions and values.
Winning the title was not just a personal achievement but a chance to amplify my voice and drive positive change. It was a moment of triumph that I will cherish forever, and it reinforced my commitment to using this pageantry to make a difference.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What does being a Beauty Queen mean to you?
Being a Beauty Queen means so much more than wearing a crown and sash. To me, it represents a profound opportunity to make a positive impact, inspire others, and serve as a role model.
It provides a powerful platform to raise awareness and advocate for causes that are close to my heart. For me, that has meant championing pediatric cancer awareness and honoring the memory of my angel, Nora. It’s about using the visibility and influence that come with the title to drive meaningful change and support important social issues.
Being a Beauty Queen is about embodying empowerment and showcasing leadership. It’s about demonstrating that women can be strong, intelligent, compassionate, and capable of making significant contributions to society. It’s an opportunity to inspire other women and girls to pursue their dreams and to believe in their potential. Holding the title of a Beauty Queen means being a role model for others, especially young girls who look up to me. It’s a responsibility to lead by example, to show kindness, integrity, and determination. It’s about inspiring others to overcome challenges, pursue their passions, and make a positive impact in their communities.
In essence, being a Beauty Queen is not just about external beauty; it’s about the inner qualities that define us. It’s about compassion, leadership, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of making the world a better place. It’s a role that I am deeply honored to hold, and I strive every day to live up to the values and responsibilities it represents.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants impacted your life?
Participating in pageants, especially since this was my first pageant experience since I was three years old, has created changes within myself for the better. The experience has significantly boosted my self-confidence. Standing on stage, sharing my story, and advocating for causes I am passionate about, like pediatric cancer awareness, has reinforced my belief in my abilities and the importance of my voice. This confidence has extended beyond the pageant stage into various aspects of my personal and professional life.
Additionally, pageants have introduced me to a network of inspiring and supportive sash sisters. The friendships formed with other contestants have been invaluable. We've shared experiences, supported each other, and created lasting bonds that extend beyond the competition. Overall, pageants have been a transformative experience, allowing me to grow as an individual, connect with amazing people, and make a positive impact. The lessons learned and the memories made will stay with me forever, shaping the way I approach challenges and opportunities in the future.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants influenced your self-esteem and body image?
Participating in pageants has had a significant and positive influence on my self-esteem and body image. Engaging in this journey has reinforced my belief that beauty truly comes from within. Competing in pageants has taught me to appreciate and celebrate my unique qualities and strengths. I have also learned to embraced my "flaws". We all have stretch marks, cellulite, scars, and so many imperfections that we see within our self. But, when we exhibit confidence and embrace these body changes, we allow others to feel empowered with their own body image. Pageantry encouraged me to embrace my individuality and recognize that confidence, kindness, and inner strength are the true markers of beauty. This journey has empowered me to embrace my authentic self and to radiate confidence and positivity from the inside out.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: You’re an inspiration to many. How does that feel, and what message do you want to share with others?
Being an inspiration to many is a profound and humbling feeling. It fills me with immense gratitude and a sense of responsibility to continue striving for excellence and making a positive impact. My message to others is to always believe in themselves and embrace their unique journeys. Authenticity is powerful, and each person's story has the potential to inspire and uplift others. Never underestimate the impact you can have by being true to yourself and pursuing your passions with determination and compassion. Remember that challenges and setbacks are part of the journey, but with faith, resilience, and a supportive community, you can overcome anything and achieve greatness.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your strategy for captivating the judges on stage?
My strategy for captivating the judges on stage is to showcase my authentic self and let my genuine personality shine through. I focus on maintaining a tall and confident posture, which helps me feel grounded and present. I practice my walk regularly to ensure it’s smooth and natural, finding a rhythm that feels comfortable and powerful but not overtaking. Making eye contact and smiling genuinely at the judges and audience is crucial for establishing a connection and conveying warmth and approachability. Most importantly, I remember that confidence is my best asset. By walking with the belief that I belong on that stage and embracing the moment, I aim to captivate the judges and make a lasting impact.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How do you prepare for competitions? Any specific routines or practices?
I prepare for competitions with a balance of careful planning and faith. While I don't have specific routines or practices, I always make sure to pray before any event, interview, or time on stage. This practice centers me and helps me trust in the Lord to provide what I need in those moments. Of course, I do my best to prepare and ensure I’m ready for each aspect of the competition. However, I believe that being overly prepared can sometimes lead to responses that feel too scripted and lack authenticity. By focusing on genuine preparation and relying on my faith, I am able to present my true self and connect more meaningfully with the judges and audience.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Got any tips for nailing the perfect pageant walk?
Nailing the perfect pageant walk is all about confidence, poise, and showcasing your unique personality. To start, practice regularly to ensure you feel comfortable and natural on stage. For me, I had never worn heels as tall as recommended for stage. Just feeling comfortable in the shoes takes a while!
You need to maintain a tall and confident posture; imagine a string pulling you up from the middle of your chest, keeping your spine straight and shoulders back. This not only improves your overall appearance but also boosts your confidence. Make sure your stride is smooth and graceful. Eye contact and a genuine smile can convey confidence and approachability, so let your smile shine as you make connections with the judges and audience. Keep your fingertips brushing against your thigh to give a soft movement in the arms. Again, Practice walking in the heels you’ll be wearing for the pageant, ensuring they are comfortable and broken in to avoid any discomfort on stage. Seek feedback from trusted friends, family, or mentors who understand pageantry, as their constructive criticism can help you refine your walk. Above all, remember that confidence is your best asset. Walk with the belief that you belong on that stage and that you’re showcasing the best version of yourself. Embrace the moment and let your inner beauty shine through every step you take on stage.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Choosing the right pageant dress can be crucial. What are your tips for making the best choice?
Choosing the right pageant dress is such a personal and important decision, and I’ve found that finding the perfect dress shop can make all the difference. For me, it was crucial to select a shop that not only had a beautiful selection of dresses (or would help me design my own if I wanted) but also a team that was genuinely honest and supportive throughout the process.
One of the best tips I can offer is to find a dress shop where the owner or staff have experience in competing themselves. When I worked with someone who had been in my shoes before, their insights were invaluable. They understood the pressures and expectations of pageant life, and their advice helped me find a dress that not only looked stunning but also made me feel incredibly confident and comfortable.
Trying on different styles and colors was an exciting part of the journey. I made sure to listen to the honest feedback from the shop staff, who were straightforward about what worked and what didn’t. This honesty was so refreshing and helped me see the dress from different angles, ensuring it was the perfect choice for me.
Ultimately, the perfect dress should enhance your natural beauty and make you feel like the best version of yourself. For me, the experience of finding the right dress was made so much more special by working with a dedicated and knowledgeable team who truly cared about my success. Buffies All the Rage provided support and expertise to help me shine on stage and made the whole process unforgettable.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Interview rounds can be tricky. What are your strategies for a winning interview?
I did win the interview portion of my competition. Interview rounds can indeed be challenging, but with the right strategies, I can present myself authentically and confidently. Authenticity is key; being myself and letting my genuine personality shine through helps build a connection with the judges and makes my responses more memorable. Knowing my platform is crucial, so I make sure to be well-versed in the cause or platform I am advocating for, understanding the key issues, statistics, and current events related to it. This shows my dedication and knowledge, making my advocacy more credible. Active listening is essential—I pay close attention to the questions being asked and respond thoughtfully, avoiding rehearsed answers that may not directly address the question. Sharing personal anecdotes and experiences highlights my journey, values, and why I am passionate about my platform, making my responses unique and relatable. Maintaining my composure, even when encountering difficult questions, shows confidence and poise, so I take a moment to gather my thoughts before responding. I smile, maintain good posture, and use positive body language. Honesty and transparency are vital; if I don’t know the answer to a question, I admit it, as honesty is always better than trying to bluff my way through. I stay true to my values, ensuring my answers reflect my core beliefs. Reflecting on potential questions and considering how I would answer them, I relate my experiences to the role I am competing for.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Looking back, is there a moment in a competition you wish you could redo?
Looking back, there is a moment in the competition that I wish I could redo. During the interview round, I was too rehearsed, and I feel that the judges didn't get a true sense of my authenticity. I had prepared so thoroughly that my responses ended up sounding scripted, and I missed the opportunity to let my genuine personality and passion shine through.
If I could go back, I would focus more on being in the moment and speaking from the heart. I’ve learned that while preparation is important, it’s equally crucial to be natural and authentic in conveying my thoughts and experiences. I would embrace a more conversational approach, allowing my true self to come forward, which I believe would resonate more deeply with the judges. This experience has taught me the value of balance between preparation and authenticity, a lesson I carry with me moving forward.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What common mistakes do you see others making in contests?
One of the most common mistakes I see others making in contests is not being themselves. Personal stories and unique experiences are what make each contestant stand out. Failing to share these can make contestants seem less memorable. Many contestants feel pressured to conform to what they think the judges want, rather than showcasing their authentic selves. This can lead to them appearing less genuine and more scripted, which judges can easily detect. Authenticity is key in making a genuine connection with the judges and the audience. Judges are looking for contestants who are passionate about their platform and their role. If a contestant isn’t genuinely passionate about their cause, it will show. However, most importantly, the pressure of the competition can sometimes make contestants forget to enjoy the experience. Those who are authentic tend to have more fun and make the most of the journey, which positively reflects in their performance.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Do you have any experience in modeling or acting?
I do not have experience in modeling or acting. However, my involvement in pageantry has provided me with many opportunities to develop skills that are closely related. These include presenting myself confidently, speaking effectively in public, and performing under pressure. While I haven't pursued modeling or acting directly, the experiences and skills gained from pageantry have equipped me with a strong foundation that could be beneficial in those fields. I may want to pursue it in the future!
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What are your plans or goals for the upcoming year as a Queen?
Reflecting on this past year, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and the growth I've undergone. As I transition from my role as Mrs. Arkansas American, I am excited to carry forward the lessons learned and continue making a positive difference in my community and beyond. I have several plans and goals to ensure that the impact of my reign continues and that I transition smoothly into new endeavors.
Additional Information
- National Director: Elaine Marmel (Mrs. America owner)
- State Director: Lynn DeJarnette
- Pageant Website: mrsarkansas.org
- Photographer and Credit Details: Jerry Davis Photography
- Sponsors Acknowledgment: Whiplash Beauty, Jerry Davis Photography, Hill Dental Office, Buffies All The Rage, Belle Precisions Permanent Cosmetics
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to say thank you for this wonderful interview.
Tiffany McConathy Mrs. Arkansas American 2023, World Class Beauty Queens Magazine, Photo by Jerry Davis Photography
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Interview by Derek Tokarzewski
Owner/Editor in Chief
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Platform: Women Empowerment
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