Miss Oklahoma 2025 Tessa Dorrell is on her way to Orlando, Florida, to represent Oklahoma in the Miss America 2026 competition.

The Jones native and Oklahoma State University graduate boarded a morning flight from Tulsa International Airport early Friday, excited for the opportunity ahead.

'We have put in so much work'

Before boarding her flight, Dorrell said she is feeling more excitement than anxiety as the journey begins.

"It is a little too early to be nervous. I feel like my system is not all fully functioning now," she said. "I am really excited to get there. We have put in so much work, so I am ready to see what comes of it."

Dorrell is one of 51 candidates from across the country competing for the national title. The Miss America program awards scholarships and promotes leader

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