Matti-Lynn Chrisman, Miss Maple City,of Cambridge, dazzled the judges and captured the Miss Ohio crown Saturday, June 16th to advance to Miss America. Chrisman, 22, won the talent preliminary earlier this week. She impressed the judges yet again tonight to take home the crown. This was her third time competing at Miss Ohio. She also competed three times as a teen contestant in the Miss Ohio's Outstanding Teen program. For her talent, Chrisman sang, “Life of the Party,” from the Broadway musical Wild Party. She said the song captures her fun personality on stage, and says she plans to use the same talent song for Miss America.
Chrisman is a graduate of Kent State University with a degree in musical theater. Growing up, Chrisman was involved in dance and theater. She went on to star on stage at Kent State University in multiple theater productions, as well as being involved in ensemble and a cappella groups. Chrisman has spent the past year as a local titleholder working with her personal platform, “Pain Isn't Always Obvious,” which focuses on ending the stigma on mental health and suicide prevention.
Chrisman received a $10,000 scholarship, courtesy of the Natalie Ruth Plank Memorial Fund, as well as a 2017 Chevy Cruze to use during her reign, donated by Graham Chevrolet. Henri's Cloud Nine will be providing Chrisman with her entire Miss America wardrobe. Chrisman also won the Paul Herlihy Spirit award for a returning contestant.
Chrisman will go on to compete in the Miss America program September 9th.
First runner-up to Miss Ohio was Madeline Carter, 21, of Berea, winning a $4,000 scholarship.
Second runner-up was Hannah Zimmerman, 23, of Circleville, winning a $3,500 scholarship.
Third runner-up was Mara Mason, 21, of Columbus, winning a $3,000 scholarship.
Fourth runner-up was Rachel Spurling, 19, also of Columbus, winning a $2,500 scholarship.
The semifinalists included Gabrielle Payne, of Lake Milton; Lauren Beard, of Ontario; Rachel Gombosch, of Ontario; Grace Brown, of Heath; and Maribeth Tagg, of Ontario. Each semifinalist earned a $1,000 scholarship.
The People's Choice winner and taking home a $1,000 scholarship was Carter.
All non-finalists, took home a $600 scholarship.
The Miss Ohio Program awarded more than $46,000 in various scholarships this year.