CAITLIN BRUNELL
Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2008
by Héctor Joaquín Colón González
CAITLIN BRUNELL is a fifteen-year-old young woman whose most recent and most exciting accomplishment
was capturing the title of "Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2008" in the national competition held recently in Orlando,
Florida. A native of Seattle, Washington, Caitlin has lived all over the United States, and with her brothers Jake,
Joseph and Luke, and her parents, Stacy and Mark, Caitlin has put down roots in Virginia. She is an exuberant and vibrant
teen, grounded in her love for her family, her faith and her interest in helping other people in need.
Having taken lessons since the age of three, Caitlin has grown to love the discipline, beauty and athleticism of dance.
Her passion for dance has led to her personal career ambition - to be a "triple threat" on Broadway- singing, acting, and
of course, dancing. Her commitment to dance is balanced by the demands of her schoolwork, time with family and friends,
and now the 
travel and opportunities which come as the reigning Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2008.
Caitlin's Closet
Caitlin's Closet is the namesake charity and brainchild of Caitlin Brunell.
Through the organization she established in 2006, young women have the opportunity to
outfit themselves in donated formalwear for their prom, homecoming dance, academic awards or sports banquet.
Caitlin understands that experiencing a wide range of social situations is a critical component in developing a self-assured
and confident adult. Caitlin's Closet provides just that chance for teens - the chance to attend a once-in-a-lifetime
event; the chance to be front and center rather than retreat to the shadows; the chance to feel beautiful, both inside
and out. By soliciting for new or lightly used dresses from individuals, schools, clubs and retail stores, Caitlin's Closet
is able to provide fashionable attire for economically disadvantaged young women at no cost to them.
That in turn allows them to participate fully in these important and exciting coming-of-age events, build their confidence,
and create lasting memories. Caitlin remarked that
"feeling good about yourself comes from within, however feeling good about your dress gives you the confidence to conquer the world!"
The Interview
What made you decide to enter the America's Outstanding Teen 2008?
I have always watched Miss America and when I heard about the Teen program -
I immediately asked my parents if I could enter.
As Miss America's Outstanding Teen, which charities do you support?
The MAOT organization is involved with the US Dream Academy Mentor clubs and
supports Caitlin's Closet!
What kind of profession would you like to pursue?
I would love perform on Broadway!
Which persons do you admire and why?
My dad is truly my hero. He has taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance,
leadership and giving to others.
Tell us about your family?
I have 3 younger awesome brothers! Jake is 13 and he is my best friend! He makes
me laugh and is always there to cheer me up. Joseph is 9 and he is SO competitive. Last year when I was at MAOT every
time I talked to him on the phone he would ask me, "Are you winning?" Luke is 6 and the family clown. He is high energy
and dramatic. My parents call him my twin!
What are your future goals?
Well in the immediate future I am looking forward to being a junior at my new high school
and possibly trying out for the cheer squad, which I have never done before. I am also excited about getting my driver's
license! Hopeful plans include Broadway and movies!
What is the one interesting thing about you?
Have had to wear braces twice!!!
Who do you consider to be the most influential woman in the United States?
Oprah is the most influential woman in the US and maybe even the world!
She has changed millions of lives through her philanthropy work. She is a leader and role model for all women.
How would you convince a skeptic that pageants are a positive thing?
I have learned so much from competing in pageants. I have gained self-confidence
in the interview process, public speaking and performing on the stage. Being involved in pageants has afforded me with
so many wonderful and unique opportunities. I have made life-long friends and have enjoyed every moment.
What makes your state special?
Virginia is so beautiful! One of my favorite things is all the history - it is the
birthplace of America! I love being so close to DC and all the museums, monuments and our Nation's capital!
How would you convince someone to enter this pageant?
The MAOT organization is tremendous and I am honored to be a part of it. I have
learned so much about myself by being involved in this pageant system. After arriving in Orlando last summer and meeting
all the contestants, I was blown away by the beauty and talent that each girl had. It was important for me to remember who
I was and not worry about the things I had no control over. My advice to other young girls is to be yourself and do
the very best that you can do!
Please tell us the first thing that comes to your mind when asked about your...
Hobbies - Cheering on my dad and brothers at their games, cooking, hanging out with friends, shopping and going to the beach.
Favorite Movie - "The Notebook"
Favorite Actor - Will Ferrell - loved him in "Elf" and "Kicking and Screaming!"
Favorite Actress - Reese Witherspoon in "Legally Blonde." Pink Power!:)
Favorite Music - Pop/country
Favorite Song - "You're Not Alone" by Meredith Andrews
Favorite Singer - Avril Lavigne
Favorite Book - Bible
Favorite Cuisine - Mexican
Favorite Quote - My favorite quote is by Marianne Williamson, "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate,
our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented,
fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?" This quote challenges me to Dream Big!
Favorite Hero - Wonder Woman
Favorite Miss Universe - Go Miss USA!!!
The Facts
Hometown: Great Falls, Virginia
Scholastic Ambition: to graduate with academic honors keeping a balance of arts, community service, church and pursue
a degree in theater/dance.
Career Ambition: to become a professional actress, become a "triple threat" on Broadway, receive a Tony Award and crossover
into TV/film.
Talent: an innovative musical theater pointe dance
Platform Issue: partnering with high schools and government agencies to make "special event" gowns and dresses available
to those that are unable to afford them through "Caitlin's Closet".
Scholastic Honors: graduated middle school with "Home School Honors", selected Freshman Student Ambassador for Georgetown
Visitation High School, recipient of "Kind Acts National Award".
Accomplishments: selected Cover Girl for "Pilates Style" magazine, member Tremaine dance tour, fashion show Mistress of Ceremonies.
State Competition Sponsor: Miss Virginia Scholarship Organization
Favorite TV Show: "24"
Favorite Foods: my mother's spaghetti
Pets: my yellow labs Bo & Champ
Secret Dream: I want to win the Triple Crown of performing a Tony Award, a Grammy Award and an Academy Award!
If I could change anything about myself I would like to sing as well as I dance.
One of my favorite things to do: anything with my family!
JULY/AUGUST 2008
PHOTO CREDITS: Miss America Organization
