Miss Tampa Casana Fink Crowned Miss Florida 2024 at Scholarship Competition in Lakeland
Miss Tampa Crowned Miss Florida 2024 in Thrilling Competition
LAKELAND, Fla. — In a dazzling display of talent and grace, Casana Fink, the reigning Miss Tampa, was crowned Miss Florida 2024 on Saturday night at the RP Funding Center. After three nights of fierce competition, Fink emerged victorious, earning the prestigious title and a $20,000 scholarship.
Presented with her crown by last year’s winner, Juliette Valle, Fink will now represent Florida at the Miss America competition in January, continuing the legacy of this historic event, the longest-running pageant of its kind in the world.
Fink’s journey to the crown was marked by standout performances, beginning with an inspiring lyrical dance to Lauren Daigle’s "Rescue" during the preliminary talent round. Her captivating performance set the tone for the competition, and she followed it up with a stunning evening gown presentation that solidified her status as a frontrunner.
In addition to her on-stage triumphs, Fink showcased her commitment to community service by receiving two scholarships during the Miss Florida Organization Scholarship Beach Party at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort. She was awarded the Miss Florida Practical Leadership Scholarship ($500) and the Miss Florida Community Service Initiative Scholarship ($1,500).
The evening culminated with the announcement of the winner after a series of presentations by the 16 semifinalists, who shared their community service initiatives and participated in the health and fitness segment. The event also featured a conversation with 2003 Miss Florida and 2004 Miss America winner Ericka Dunlop, adding a touch of nostalgia to the proceedings.
Fink plans to leverage her platform as Miss Florida to advocate for organ and tissue donation through her foundation, Give to Live, highlighting the importance of this critical cause.
In a parallel celebration, Ireland Harkins, Miss St. Augustine’s Teen, was crowned Miss Florida’s Teen 2024, earning a $5,000 scholarship and full tuition to one of several prestigious Florida universities.
As the night concluded, Fink’s victory not only marked a personal achievement but also continued the proud tradition of Miss Tampa winners, with Fink becoming the seventh to claim the Miss Florida title in the competition’s 88-year history, and the second in four years, following Leah Roddenberry’s win in 2021.
With her eyes set on Miss America, Casana Fink is ready to shine on the national stage, embodying the spirit and resilience of the Sunshine State.