History of the
Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney & Andrea Garff Anderson
Published in 2013
Updated in 2025
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney & Andrea Garff Anderson
Published in 2013
Updated in 2025
Author's Note
I am excited to share the inspiring history of the Miss Utah Deaf Pageant, a remarkable event that empowers Deaf women by helping them develop essential leadership skills, including public speaking, poise, presentation, and communication. Unfortunately, political circumstances have forced the closure of our pageant since 2012, as detailed on the webpage below. I encourage you to explore and learn about the rich legacy of our pageant.
The Miss Utah Deaf Pageant not only served as a platform for showcasing talent and beauty but also fostered friendship and support among participants. We hope to revive this cherished tradition in the future, allowing new generations of Deaf women to shine and inspire others. In the meantime, we invite everyone to celebrate the accomplishments of past participants and to stay connected with our community. Together, we can ensure that the spirit of the Miss Utah Deaf Pageant lives on, inspiring future leaders to embrace their unique talents and voices.
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
The Miss Utah Deaf Pageant not only served as a platform for showcasing talent and beauty but also fostered friendship and support among participants. We hope to revive this cherished tradition in the future, allowing new generations of Deaf women to shine and inspire others. In the meantime, we invite everyone to celebrate the accomplishments of past participants and to stay connected with our community. Together, we can ensure that the spirit of the Miss Utah Deaf Pageant lives on, inspiring future leaders to embrace their unique talents and voices.
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
The Establishment of the
Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
The Miss Deaf America Pageant, also known as MDAP, was founded in 1972 by the National Association of the Deaf. This remarkable event provided an opportunity for talented young Deaf women to shine as leaders in the Deaf community, which often lacked the attention it deserved from mainstream society. The pageant is not merely about beauty; it also raises awareness of the Deaf community and its incredible members. Members of this vibrant community possess a wealth of skills and talents, and the Miss Deaf America Pageant showcases these qualities while fostering a sense of pride and empowerment. Through various competitions, including talent showcases and interviews, participants demonstrate their abilities and advocate for accessibility and inclusion, inspiring others in the community to do the same.
In 1978, the enthusiasm continued when W. David "Dave" Mortensen, the president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, appointed Adele Sigoda as chairwoman. Together, they launched the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant in 1979. Their goal was to reflect the spirit of the MDAP on a local level in Utah, bringing the Deaf community closer together and fostering a sense of belonging (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). It was a celebration of connection within the Deaf world, a testament to the unity and strength of the community! The pageant not only showcased the talents and beauty of its participants but also served as a platform for advocating awareness and understanding of Deaf culture. Over the years, it has become a cherished tradition that empowers individuals and strengthens community ties.
In 1978, the enthusiasm continued when W. David "Dave" Mortensen, the president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, appointed Adele Sigoda as chairwoman. Together, they launched the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant in 1979. Their goal was to reflect the spirit of the MDAP on a local level in Utah, bringing the Deaf community closer together and fostering a sense of belonging (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). It was a celebration of connection within the Deaf world, a testament to the unity and strength of the community! The pageant not only showcased the talents and beauty of its participants but also served as a platform for advocating awareness and understanding of Deaf culture. Over the years, it has become a cherished tradition that empowers individuals and strengthens community ties.
W. David Mortensen, UAD President
During a committee meeting in 1979, UAD President Mortensen proposed sponsoring contestants for a specific event. Initially, the committee was concerned about the logistical challenges of bringing together the participants and their sponsors. However, in 1983, they revised and implemented the idea. Each contestant received a sponsor, which revolutionized the industry. The Miss Deaf Utah Pageant strongly advocated for sponsorship, as it provided essential moral support, advice, and ideas that the contestants might not have received independently.
This episode highlights the importance of community involvement in the program's success, emphasizing that without sponsors, the pageant would not have achieved its success (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). The Miss Deaf Utah Pageant illustrates how the collaboration between sponsors and participants fostered a supportive environment, empowering young women to showcase their talents and confidence. This partnership not only enhanced the pageant experience but also underscored the importance of mentorship within the community, highlighting the value of guidance and support in personal growth.
This episode highlights the importance of community involvement in the program's success, emphasizing that without sponsors, the pageant would not have achieved its success (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). The Miss Deaf Utah Pageant illustrates how the collaboration between sponsors and participants fostered a supportive environment, empowering young women to showcase their talents and confidence. This partnership not only enhanced the pageant experience but also underscored the importance of mentorship within the community, highlighting the value of guidance and support in personal growth.
Adele Sigoda, the First
Chairperson of the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Chairperson of the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Adele Sigoda, Chairperson of the 1979 Miss Deaf Utah Pageant committee
In 1979, Dave Mortensen helped Adele Sigoda establish the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant (MDUP) while his Deaf daughter, Kristi, secretly prepared to compete in the event. Her grandmother, Maxie Christiansen, helped shape Kristi's clothing style, and her friend, Dora B. Laramie, played a crucial role in developing her talent and public speaking skills. This collective effort, along with the support from their community, added a personal touch to the pageant's history. Kristi's parents, Dave and Shanna, were unaware of her participation in the MDUP. Fortunately, Adele was able to find a replacement judge for the event. In 1979, Kristi won the inaugural Miss Deaf Utah pageant, earning the title of Miss Deaf Utah (Kristi Lee Mortensen, personal communication, March 28, 2009). The contest continued to be held every two years until 2012 when it was restructured to adapt to changing times while maintaining its core mission of celebrating the talents and achievements of Deaf individuals. Kristi's victory and the support she received continue to inspire participants, fostering a sense of community and empowerment within the Utah Deaf community.
Kristi Lee Mortensen,
the First Miss Deaf Utah in 1979
the First Miss Deaf Utah in 1979
Kristi Lee Mortensen, 1st Miss Deaf Utah, 1979
Over the years, the committee met at various locations, including the Salt Lake County Council chambers, the professional setting of St. Benedict's Hospital in Ogden's conference rooms, and the Copper Mountain Mental Health Center in Murray, Utah. Later, the committee met regularly in the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). They also met at the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Taylorsville, Utah. The committee's efforts focused on enhancing resources and support for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. By collaborating with various organizations and holding meetings in accessible locations, they aimed to create a more inclusive environment for all individuals.
Adele, a key figure in the Miss Deaf Utah pageant, made an important decision during the 1981 awards ceremony. She chose to step down from her role to spend more time with her new family. The decisive moment resulted in the selection of Shirley Snow as state director and the election of Barbara Bass as chairwoman. The majority of participants in the first two pageants were college students in their early twenties (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). The Miss Deaf Utah pageant became a platform not only for showcasing talent and beauty but also for promoting awareness and advocacy for the Utah Deaf community. As the years progressed, the pageant evolved, attracting a diverse group of contestants who shared their unique stories and experiences.
Most contestants were recent high school graduates. At the time, the rubella outbreak had a significant impact, leading many people to become Deaf. Despite challenges, the MDUP fundraisers successfully raised funds for the pageant, covering expenses for Miss Deaf Utah, her chaperone, and the scholarship fund (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). This support not only emphasized the importance of education within the Utah Deaf community but also encouraged a sense of autonomy and visibility. As the pageant continued to thrive, it became a platform for contestants to advocate for Deaf culture and raise awareness about issues affecting their community.
In a moment of well-deserved recognition, the Utah Association for the Deaf honored Eleanor Kay Kinner Curtis with a Presidential Award in 1995 for her exceptional work as MDUP State Director for two pageants. Her dedication and contributions to the pageant were truly commendable. Her commitment and contributions to the pageant were truly commendable, leaving a lasting impact on the Utah Deaf community and inspiring future generations of contestants. Through her efforts, the pageant not only celebrated beauty and talent but also fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture.
Adele, a key figure in the Miss Deaf Utah pageant, made an important decision during the 1981 awards ceremony. She chose to step down from her role to spend more time with her new family. The decisive moment resulted in the selection of Shirley Snow as state director and the election of Barbara Bass as chairwoman. The majority of participants in the first two pageants were college students in their early twenties (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). The Miss Deaf Utah pageant became a platform not only for showcasing talent and beauty but also for promoting awareness and advocacy for the Utah Deaf community. As the years progressed, the pageant evolved, attracting a diverse group of contestants who shared their unique stories and experiences.
Most contestants were recent high school graduates. At the time, the rubella outbreak had a significant impact, leading many people to become Deaf. Despite challenges, the MDUP fundraisers successfully raised funds for the pageant, covering expenses for Miss Deaf Utah, her chaperone, and the scholarship fund (The Miss Deaf Utah Story, 1983). This support not only emphasized the importance of education within the Utah Deaf community but also encouraged a sense of autonomy and visibility. As the pageant continued to thrive, it became a platform for contestants to advocate for Deaf culture and raise awareness about issues affecting their community.
In a moment of well-deserved recognition, the Utah Association for the Deaf honored Eleanor Kay Kinner Curtis with a Presidential Award in 1995 for her exceptional work as MDUP State Director for two pageants. Her dedication and contributions to the pageant were truly commendable. Her commitment and contributions to the pageant were truly commendable, leaving a lasting impact on the Utah Deaf community and inspiring future generations of contestants. Through her efforts, the pageant not only celebrated beauty and talent but also fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture.
Eleanor Kay Kinner, a State Director of Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Shirley Snow, the longest-serving State Director
of the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
of the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Shirley Snow, the longest-serving state director, has helped organize six Miss Deaf America pageants. Her passion was evident when she and Kristi Lee Mortensen attended the State Directors' Meeting with MDAP officials in Kansas City, Kansas, in 2004. However, the state directors postponed discussion about the program's operation until the next NAD/MDAP summit in California in 2006, where they faced various problems, including a proposal to change the title of Miss Deaf America to Miss Deaf Ambassador due to a decline in the number of participating girls. Furthermore, most girls in the mainstream program were unaware of the National Association of the Deaf or the Miss Deaf America Pageant. This lack of awareness demonstrated the importance of increased outreach and engagement efforts to promote the program and its benefits. As discussions continued, the directors recognized that revitalizing the pageant could inspire more young women to participate and foster a greater sense of community within the Deaf and hard-of-hearing population.
Shirley Snow, State Director
of the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant
Andrea Garff Anderson Becomes the State Director
of the Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador
of the Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador
When the new changes were still being ironed out in 2007, Andrea Garff Anderson, a former Miss Deaf Idaho who had been a contestant and judge in seven other pageants, was appointed as the State Director of the Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador. In her role, she was responsible for overseeing the program's operations, coordinating with other state directors, and ensuring the program's alignment with the goals of the Miss Deaf Ambassador program, providing a clear direction for the program's future. Under her leadership, the program flourished, attracting a diverse group of talented contestants and fostering a sense of community among participants. Andrea's dedication and vision helped elevate the profile of the Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador program, which opened the door to future generations of empowered individuals.
During the Miss Deaf American Pageant program in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the summer of 2007, many state directors favored and voted to change the title from Miss Deaf America to Miss Deaf Ambassador. These changes included a shift in focus from a traditional pageant format to a more inclusive and empowering ambassadorship program, with a greater emphasis on community engagement and advocacy. Two Utah representatives, Katrina Pickett Lee, a former Miss Deaf Utah, and Eleanor McCowan, witnessed these changes.
Kristi Lee Mortensen said that the announcement was the beginning of a new era, and the Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador had added a lot of flavor to the state of Utah. Furthermore, it enabled many young girls from mainstream programs to build self-esteem, expand their abilities, enhance their public speaking skills, and inspire future generations —a development that the community can be proud of and support (Kristi Lee Mortensen, personal communication, March 28, 2009). This initiative promotes personal growth among participants and strengthens community bonds, fostering inclusivity and support for all individuals. As these young girls gain confidence and skills, they become powerful role models, paving the way for future ambassadors and leaders.
During the Miss Deaf American Pageant program in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the summer of 2007, many state directors favored and voted to change the title from Miss Deaf America to Miss Deaf Ambassador. These changes included a shift in focus from a traditional pageant format to a more inclusive and empowering ambassadorship program, with a greater emphasis on community engagement and advocacy. Two Utah representatives, Katrina Pickett Lee, a former Miss Deaf Utah, and Eleanor McCowan, witnessed these changes.
Kristi Lee Mortensen said that the announcement was the beginning of a new era, and the Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador had added a lot of flavor to the state of Utah. Furthermore, it enabled many young girls from mainstream programs to build self-esteem, expand their abilities, enhance their public speaking skills, and inspire future generations —a development that the community can be proud of and support (Kristi Lee Mortensen, personal communication, March 28, 2009). This initiative promotes personal growth among participants and strengthens community bonds, fostering inclusivity and support for all individuals. As these young girls gain confidence and skills, they become powerful role models, paving the way for future ambassadors and leaders.
Andrea Garff Anderson, Miss Deaf Idaho @ MagicValley.com
As the state director, Andrea Garff Anderson was responsible for two Miss Deaf Utah Ambassadorship Programs, which consisted of over ten workshops and two-weekend retreats each. Kelli Fletcher, the MDUAP treasurer, secured a $20,000 grant for the organization. In 2009, fifteen people showed interest in the program, but only seven were selected. Andrea's exceptional work with the program and its reestablishment earned her the prestigious Presidential Award from the Utah Association of the Deaf the same year, a testament to the high standards and impact of their initiatives (Andrea Garff Anderson, personal communication, January 2, 2013). This recognition not only highlighted Andrea's dedication but also brought increased visibility and support to the MDUAP, encouraging more community members to participate in future programs. As a result, the organization has continued to grow, fostering a vibrant network for individuals passionate about Deaf advocacy and education.
Miss Deaf Utah Winners
Enclosed are the photos of the Miss Deaf Utah winners. Each of them showcased incredible talent and poise during the competition, making it a memorable event for everyone involved. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and commitment to advocating for the Utah Deaf community. We hope these images convey the joy and spirit of the event and also make you feel part of this celebration.
Katrina Pickett Lee, 1993 Miss Deaf Utah
Katrina Pickett Lee, 1993 Miss Deaf Utah
Camille Call, 1997 Miss Deaf Utah
Camille Call, 1997 Miss Deaf Utah
Camille Call, 1997: Being involved with the pageant experience helped me grow in many ways including talent, confidence, poise, intelligence, and especially my leadership abilities. Being Miss Deaf Utah queen has taught me about the importance of hard work, commitment, and team-work. It is worth it in the long run as it has not been an easy task. I will always treasure this wonderful, memorable experience as being a role model in serving the community and especially deaf children. Through my platform on Deaf and Political Advocacy, I have developed greater appreciation for the deaf needs and services that we have today. I definitely will continue to be actively involved in the deaf community. It was fun making new friends!!! Representing Utah was one of the best experiences I had in my life!
Rebecca Davenport, 2001 Miss Deaf Utah
Rebecca Davenport, 2001 Miss Deaf Utah
Rebecca Davenport, 2001: Being involved with the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant was a rich experience for me. I met other ladies that I competed with and they became my friends for life. Also by being a participant in a pageant, it helped me build self confidence. People will always remember me and the service I did for the community. It is a great and learning experience about world issues that impacts our deaf community. Being involved with the pageant gave me more opportunities in life.
Ellen O’Hara, 2003 Miss Deaf Utah
Ellen O'Hara, 2003 Miss Deaf Utah
Ellen O’Hara, 2003: Being a Miss Deaf Utah created a new meaning of honor. I realized my actions are louder than what say. "It helped me to become kinder and thoughtful of others. I looked outside of myself and I strived to comfort others. I learned to put others first and to become a representative for Utah Deaf community. It taught me the value of tactfulness and proper conduct. The experience was an eye-opener. I was amazed to see other girls representing other states in MDAP. I didn't really realize how much this pageant meant nationally. I enjoyed it more because I was able to create good friendships even though we lived states apart. I felt honored to be chosen to represent Utah and felt proud that I did well in my title.
The Miss Utah Princess Is Formed
Andrea Garff Anderson established the 'Miss Utah Princess' pageant in 2010 to provide a platform for young girls in the Utah ASL community, aged between 6 and 8, who are Deaf or Children of Deaf Adults. The pageant's increasing popularity led to the organization of one more competition in 2012, further solidifying its significance within the community. The success of the pageant not only empowered young girls to embrace their identities but also created an atmosphere of gratitude and unity within the Utah ASL community. As the event grew, it inspired other regions to develop similar platforms, promoting inclusivity and celebrating diverse backgrounds.
Andrea Vigil, 2009 Miss Deaf Utah
Andrea Vigil, 2009 Miss Deaf Utah
Miss Deaf Utah Princess, 2010 with Andrea Vigil, Miss Deaf Utah
Andrea Vigil, 2009: I loved being your Miss Deaf Utah. Before I became Miss Deaf Utah, I was just being myself, working and going on with my life as usual. But when I got involved with this MDUAP (Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador Program), competing and winning the title changed my life because it has allowed me to reach so many people from all walks of life. I learned so much from these people. I was able to expand my passion and work with deaf community. So many opportunities came up while I was Miss Deaf Utah and I learned many things that applied to my personal life and to the deaf community. One of my favorite appearance as Miss Deaf Utah was the Miss Deaf Princess event, because of the young girls who were involved. They had the opportunity to experience being on the stage, sharing their talents, personalities and wearing their favorite dresses. It was so cute and I believe it was a good positive experience for the girls. During this event, I was able to share with the Utah deaf community my talent, platform, and my evening grown presentation. I was also able to get feedback from UAD board which helped me prepare for the Miss Deaf America pageant in Philadelphia, PA. The experience in Philadelphia was a changing part of my life. It feels great to have confidence in myself and to know so many people believed in me as their representative for Utah.
The Miss Deaf America Program Has Been Renamed
The Youth National Ambassador Program
The Youth National Ambassador Program
In 2012, the National Association of the Deaf introduced the Youth National Ambassador Program, which replaced the Miss Deaf America Program. This new program offers Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals aged 18 to 30, residing anywhere in the United States, the opportunity to participate and represent the National Association of the Deaf. However, Andrea strongly opposed this change, leading her to decide to terminate the Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador Program. The community experienced a profound emotional response to this decision, particularly since Utah hosted its final pageant in 2012. The termination marked the end of an era for many participants who valued the chance to showcase their talents and advocate for the Deaf community. As the program came to a close, former contestants and supporters reflected on the importance of representation and the ongoing need for visibility for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
Kayla Stubbs, 2011 Miss Deaf Utah
Kayla Stubbs, 2011 Miss Deaf Utah
Kayla Stubbs, 2011: When I first heard about Miss Deaf Utah Ambassador Program, I thought it was all about being perfect and beautiful with a lot of amazing talents and I thought I wasn’t good enough to compete but I decided to try it out anyways. When I won the title, I knew that I felt like I finally knew who I was. I knew what I believed in and I knew I could be true to myself and show young women that you don’t need to compromise to get ahead or to become Miss Deaf Utah. You can be anything you want to be if you believe in yourself. I am so grateful for these experiences as I now know it has helped to shape me into a better person and a better leader. My year has been incredible with speaking engagements, appearances, and, of course, my indescribable trip to Miss Deaf America. These moments are forever etched into my mind and cannot be replaced. In a way, I hoped this night would never come because it means that my time as a titleholder is at an end. But I’m going to smile because I did have this chance and I now have the whole world in front of me. Miss Deaf America was in Kentucky Louisville last July, I was there for two weeks. There were 14 girls who competed and it was so great to meet all of these ladies, as they were all very smart and very beautiful. They all are very unique and I learned a lot about each of them. I love the diversity of people. We all worked together and supported each other during the finals. It was amazing because it felt like we were all sisters. Whenever one girl is crying or having a hard time, we all would try hard to make her feel better. I became really close to Miss Deaf Maryland named Chanel who is currently Miss Deaf America. We were roommates for the last two weeks and we just clicked. We have gotten really close and we did everything together at NAD. I am very honored that I got to know her and she is my role model. The overall experience was amazing and I will never forget it. I would like to thank my state director Andrea for pushing me because she believed in me and that I can do it when I couldn’t believe in myself. She was like a mother to me, a great friend, and an amazing support ever through this amazing journey. I wouldn’t be able to make it through without her. She’s my hero. Thank you for not giving up on me. I would like to thank all of you for believing in me as well. Thank you for helping out with different events that made it possible for me to go to Miss Deaf America. I thank you who helped with the haunted house and who helped with Miss Deaf Utah Princess. This is a great community and I am so honored that I got the chance to represent you and be your last Miss Deaf Utah.
Author’s Note
I would like to express my gratitude to Andrea Garff Anderson for her outstanding efforts in gathering and compiling information about the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant and its Ambassador Program. Her dedication and hard work have significantly contributed to the success of these initiatives, elevating them to a new level of excellence. I truly appreciate her commitment to promoting awareness and support for the Utah Deaf community through these programs.
• Miss Deaf Utah Pageant Contestants (PDF)
• Comments by Some Former Miss Deaf Utah Queens (PDF)
• Miss Deaf Utah Pageant History of Committee Members from 1979 to 2012 (PDF)
• Miss Deaf Utah Pageant PowerPoint (PDF)
• Comments by Some Former Miss Deaf Utah Queens (PDF)
• Miss Deaf Utah Pageant History of Committee Members from 1979 to 2012 (PDF)
• Miss Deaf Utah Pageant PowerPoint (PDF)
Special Thanks to Andrea Garff Anderson
Additionally, I want to recognize Andrea Garff Anderson for her unique and impactful work in creating an informative and engaging PowerPoint presentation about the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant. Her presentation provides comprehensive information about the pageant, highlighting the important role of the Ambassador Program, which she has emphasized. Andrea's dedication and the quality of her work are truly commendable.
Thank you, Andrea, for all you do!
Jodi Christel Becker
Thank you, Andrea, for all you do!
Jodi Christel Becker
Notes
Andrea Garff Anderson, e-mail message sent to Jodi Christel Becker. January 2, 2013.
Kristi Lee Mortensen, e-mail message sent to Jodi Christel Becker. March 28, 2009.
Kristi Lee Mortensen, e-mail message sent to Jodi Christel Becker. March 28, 2009.
Reference
The Miss Deaf Utah Story. 1983.
