Miss Collegiate USA Announces Maryland Mindfulness & Mental Performance Counseling as Official Mental Wellness Partner

Sarah Spund, LCPC

Miss Collegiate USA is proud to announce Maryland Mindfulness & Mental Performance Counseling (MMAMPC) as its Official Mental Wellness Partner beginning in 2026 and continuing in the years ahead. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting the mental well-being, resilience, and performance of young women as they navigate both personal and professional growth.

MMAMPC is a woman-owned, virtual private practice founded by Sarah Spund, LCPC in February 2025. The practice is dedicated to helping individuals manage both everyday challenges and high-pressure moments with clarity, confidence, and resilience.

Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Sarah Spund is a licensed clinical professional counselor and RYT-200 yoga instructor. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University.

As a former pageant competitor—holding titles including Miss Maryland Teen America (2005), Top 10 at Miss Teen America (2005), and Miss Maryland Teen United States (2007)—Sarah brings a unique blend of lived experience and clinical expertise to her work. As a former professional athlete, she specializes in supporting high-achieving individuals, student-athletes, and collegiate competitors navigating performance anxiety, confidence, and burnout.

Her approach integrates mental performance strategies, mindfulness practices, and evidence-based therapy to help clients stay grounded while performing at a high level.

https://mmampc.com/

Through this partnership, Miss Collegiate USA contestants will gain access to wellness-centered resources, strategies, and support designed to strengthen their mental resilience and overall well-being throughout their journey.

To learn more about Maryland Mindfulness & Mental Performance Counseling, visit: https://mmampc.com/

As Miss Collegiate USA prepares for the 2026 season, additional national partners and sponsors will be announced, each playing a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission of scholarship, leadership, and sisterhood nationwide.

Miss Collegiate USA Announces College Auntie as a New National Partner Beginning in 2026

Michelle Udeli, Founder & CEO of College Auntie

Miss Collegiate USA is proud to announce College Auntie as a new National Partner beginning in 2026 and continuing in the years ahead. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to empowering students and young professionals with the tools, resources, and confidence needed to thrive beyond the classroom.

College Auntie, founded by Michelle Udeli, is dedicated to equipping emerging leaders with practical life skills, strategic guidance, and a supportive community that fosters both personal and professional growth. Their mission aligns seamlessly with Miss Collegiate USA’s focus on developing confident, purpose-driven women who lead with intention in their communities, campuses, and careers.

Through this partnership, Miss Collegiate USA contestants will gain access to meaningful resources and insights designed to support their transition from college to career, while strengthening their leadership development throughout their journey.

“This partnership represents more than collaboration—it reflects a shared vision for empowering women to step into their next chapter with clarity and confidence,” said Miss Collegiate USA leadership.

https://www.collegeauntie.com/

To learn more about College Auntie and Ms. Udeli's work, visit: https://www.collegeauntie.com/

As Miss Collegiate USA prepares for the 2026 season, additional national partners and sponsors will be announced—each playing a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission of scholarship, leadership, and sisterhood nationwide.

Stay connected for more exciting announcements as we continue building an impactful and empowering experience.

Miss Collegiate USA Is More Than a Crown — It’s a Transformative Experience for Your Future

When most people think of pageants, they imagine crowns, evening gowns, and stage lights but for the women who walk the Miss Collegiate USA stage, the experience means so much more. For many contestants, participating in MCU becomes a turning point: a year of growth, confidence, impact, and opportunity that reaches far beyond the final walk.

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Miss Collegiate USA different, and how joining the next class could elevate your personal and professional journey... you’re in the right place.

A sisterhood and opportunity for personal growth.

Empowerment Through Experience

Miss Collegiate USA isn’t just a competition — it’s a personal development journey designed to help every woman discover and embrace her strengths. Through workshops, networking opportunities, interview practice, and on-stage experiences, participants gain practical skills that transcend the pageant itself. Contestants frequently report improved communication skills, self-presentation, and poise — assets that benefit them in school, careers, and life.

Every interview, speech, and presentation requires stepping outside your comfort zone — a process that many find transformative. As you grow more confident in expressing your thoughts and sharing your story, you naturally become more comfortable in leadership roles and professional settings alike.

Enhance your public speaking skills on-stage during the fun getting-to-know you interview!

Build Confidence That Lasts

One of the most significant benefits of pageantry is the boost in self-confidence. The combination of skill-building and real-world experiences equips delegates with a deeper belief in their abilities.

Participants work closely with judges, coaches, and peers receiving constructive feedback that helps them grow and refine their skills. This iterative process teaches resilience and reinforces that success comes from effort, courage, and dedication.

Jr & High School contestants showcase their evening gown in Poise & Grace Competition.

Turning Personal Stories Into Impactful Platforms

Every Miss Collegiate USA candidate is encouraged to champion a personal cause. Whether it’s advocating for mental health awareness, combating social issues, or a community initiative that reflects your passion, your platform becomes the heart of your pageant experience.

This opportunity to lead means more than speaking on stage — it’s about turning personal experience into purposeful advocacy. Contestants learn how to organize events, speak passionately about issues they care about, and use their voice to educate and inspire others.

Lifelong Sisterhood and Networking

Pageants bring together women from diverse backgrounds, creating powerful networking opportunities and lasting friendships. These bonds are often cited by alumnae as one of the most valuable aspects of the Miss Collegiate USA experience — a supportive community that continues long after the national pageant week ends.

You’ll meet mentors, fellow contestants, and community leaders who can open doors in your personal and professional life. These relationships become part of your foundation as you pursue future goals.

Miss Collegiate USA sisters set off for a day of bonding.

Growth That Extends Beyond Pageants

The skills and confidence you build through Miss Collegiate USA are not limited to pageant stages — they carry into academic success, career advancement, and leadership opportunities. From public speaking to time management, self-advocacy to networking, pageantry prepares you for success in multiple areas of your life.

If you’re ready to elevate your voice, embrace your story, and grow both personally and professionally, Miss Collegiate USA could be the next best step in your journey. Registration for the next National Pageant is open now — and we invite you to take the leap. Your crown may be symbolic, but your impact will be real.

Apply Today