Betty Maxwell grew up in a double-wide trailer on a modest farm in rural Georgia where she always dreamed of becoming an actress and a vocal performer.
After high school, Betty accepted a college scholarship to study theatre and music. Despite her initial hesitation, she pursued the world of pageantry once she realized it was an opportunity to showcase her vocal talents and earn additional scholarships. She never expected her pursuits would lead her to be crowned Miss America 2016.
In her memoir, Miss Unlikely: From Farm Girl to Miss America (BroadStreet Publishing), Betty shares poignant moments from her childhood, her pageant journey, her year as Miss America, her fairytale wedding, and more with added insight on school, family, self-esteem, dreams, dating, and loss. During her time as Miss America, Betty traveled the world as the National Goodwill Ambassador for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and gave motivational and keynote speeches to organizations and students. She also performed on USO tours and sang for the military and their families.
"We all come from so many different walks of life. We all have struggles and challenges. And we all have dreams," says Betty. "If a girl as unlikely as me can turn my dreams into a reality, you can too. You just need the right tools, people who love and support you, and a whole lot of faith."
Betty candidly shares her life experiences and writes her honest perspective on the recent controversies of the Miss America Organization (removing the swimsuit competition, newly appointed leadership and relinquishing control of personal social media accounts to the organization).
Miss Unlikely encourages readers to remain positive in the face of life's uncertainties and find confidence in the knowledge that God has a unique plan for their life.
Her official web site is: www.bettymaxwell.net