Always striving ever upward, Madison Oh embodies the big dreams, bright lights, and brilliant minds of the state that Miss New York serves. Her journey to the Miss America Opportunity began growing up in front of beaming stage lights. Dancing her whole life and cherishing the storytelling of performing, she sought bringing her advocacy behind the scenes to the spotlight. Raised in a household that championed the importance of education and positivity, Madison has always worked to provide equal educational opportunities to students in her communities. Seeing the empowerment of women of all backgrounds on the Miss New York stage struck a fire in her. As a young woman admiring the titleholders before her, she saw a space where all of her worlds could connect and create change for the better. 

At Columbia University, Madison earned the honor of President of her sorority Kappa Alpha Theta. Having gained leadership of 200 sisters, she finds purpose in fundraising and sharing her Miss New York journey with young women in her community and globally. The sisterhood’s motto, “TLAM”—Theta Love and Mine—became her calling as she found ways to encourage members to get involved with the passions in her life, especially education and young minds. As an advocate with Minds Matter NYC, a non-profit program for mentoring dedicated students for college applications and careers, she understands that as a young woman living her dreams, it is her mission to help others accomplish theirs. From hosting “Theta Talks” sharing her work with fellow Columbia students to volunteering with Minds Matter, her purpose is finding ways to unite her passions and open doors. 

Madison aims to be more than a student, advocate, and sister, but a leader growing ever upward—and paving paths for others to join her. As an English major with a concentration in Business Management, she hones in on the strength of communication and marketing. Knowing the power of language and content, Madison strategizes how brands can optimize their impacts as a brand consulting intern. Her confidence on stage, in the classroom, and in the office reflects an ability to speak concisely, fundraise fearlessly and work as a teammate. She has supported foster youth, raising over $6,500 with her sorority as well as volunteered for the Minds Matter Benefit garnering over $2.5 million. Madison is no stranger for setting her sights high and working hard to make her dreams and others’ a reality.

As an avid dancer with dreams of the Broadway stage, you can find her taking classes around the city and catching shows. Madison seizes every opportunity to take the stage whether as a mover or speaker. On the daily, you can find her exploring the city with friends, searching for the best sweets around, or buried in a good book on Columbia’s campus. She experiences everything the State of New York has to offer—as an adventurer, student, mentor, friend, and your Miss New York.

Madison Oh is a testament to New York’s Excelsior; she lifts up those around her and strives to be her best self. Her journey is a reminder that your time is now and your dreams are always within reach. “New York Love, and Mine.”