Madison Marsh, Groundbreaking US Air Force Officer, Crowned Miss America 2024

Early Ambitions and Aspirations

Growing up in Arkansas, Marsh had a passion for science and dreamed of becoming a pilot and astronaut. Her parents supported her dreams, sending her to Space Camp at the age of 13, where she had the opportunity to meet astronauts and fighter pilots. Learning about the USAFA around the same time, she took her first flying lessons at 15.

After obtaining her pilot’s license at 17, Marsh worked towards becoming a cadet. Graduating from USAFA, she joined the Air Force, securing a coveted pilot slot. Currently contemplating career opportunities, Marsh has a deep connection to cancer research due to the loss of her mother to pancreatic cancer five years ago.

Academic Pursuits at Harvard

In September 2023, Marsh embarked on a two-year master’s degree program in public policy at the Harvard Kennedy School through the Air Force Institute of Technology’s Civilian Institution Programs. Collaborating with the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and a Harvard Medical School professor, she focuses on researching early detection of pancreatic cancer.

The U.S. Air Force, acknowledging Marsh’s remarkable achievement, shared their congratulations on social media, highlighting her groundbreaking win as the first active-duty servicemember to ever claim the Miss America title.

Madison Marsh’s journey from a young girl with dreams of space exploration to a groundbreaking Air Force pilot and Miss America 2024 serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience, determination, and breaking barriers in unexpected places.