Meet Alaina Faith Malcolm, the new Miss Sandhills 2026!

We’re so excited to introduce Alaina Faith Malcolm, the newly crowned Miss Sandhills 2026! She is from Pembroke, NC and she earned her title on September 27, 2025 and will go on to represent her community on the Miss North Carolina stage in June!

Let’s get to know her a little better!

Digital Spotlight interview with Alaina Faith Malcolm

Q: Tell us a little about yourself!
A: I’m from Pembroke, NC. I attended High School and graduated with both my Diploma and Associate in Arts Degree from Robeson Community College with an Associate in Arts in 2017. I then attended the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, where I earned a Bachelor’s in Sociology in two years, completing the program in 2019. I am now attending the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. I plan to graduate in Fall 2026 with a Master’s in Public Administration with a concentration in Emergency Management. I aspire to be an Emergency Management Director at the local or state level. I graduated from Basic Law Enforcement (BLET) at Robeson Community College in 2024. I am currently a National Accredited Telecommunicator, CPR instructor, and Driver Aerial Operator, along with several first responder/law enforcement certifications.

Q: What inspired your Community Service Initiative?
A: My initiative, called “Check on those who check on you,” spreads awareness that more than 1,200 law enforcement officers alone have died by suicide in the past seven years. This does not include dispatchers, firefighters, correctional officers, or nurses. As a first responder, I am engaged in this job day in and day out. I see the consequences of taking home a heavy load from work. I want to change the outlook about first responders. I will elevate my Community Service Initiative as Miss Sandhills to educate spouses, families, and loved ones of first responders to see the signs of PTSD, depression, and other mental health concerns.

Q: What talent did you perform at your local competition?
A: I performed a Rhythm Tap to “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC.

Q: Do you have any previous experience within the Miss America Opportunity?
A: This is my first year holding a title in the Miss America Opportunity.

Q: What’s one fun fact about you?
A: I hope to run a half-marathon by the age of 30.

Q: What’s your favorite way to spend a day off when you’re not competing or volunteering?
A: I enjoy spending time washing my vehicle or playing golf.

Q: What’s your favorite way to stay #MissAmericaFit?
A: Physical health is more than going to the gym. It is maintaining your physical, mental, and emotional health. During my daily job functions, it is critical that I maintain all these health choices as a priority at home and work. I have found that maintaining my “health” is not only about exercising. That is why I made the decision to live my life through my Community Service Initiative, “Check on those who check on you.”

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger girl who looks up to you, what would it be?
A: “Never be afraid to be exactly who you want to be. You can be a queen one night and in tactical boots the next night, serving your community.”

Q: Where can people support your American Heart Association efforts?
A: Visit my Spotfund page to support my efforts and learn more about heart health awareness!

Follow Her Journey

Be sure to follow Alaina Faith Malcolm, Miss Sandhills 2026, throughout her year of service as she represents her community and embodies the spirit of Scholarship, Style, Service, and Success.