Meet Emily Hippensteel, the new Miss Caroina Foothills’ Teen 2026!

We’re so excited to introduce Emily Hippensteel, the newly crowned Miss Carolina Foothills’ Teen 2026! She is from Mooresville, NC. She earned her title on November 8, 2025, and will go on to represent her community on the Miss North Carolina’s Teen stage in June!

Let’s get to know her a little better!

Digital Spotlight interview with Emily Hippensteel

Q: Tell us a little about yourself!
A: I’m from Mooresville, NC. I attend Lake Norman High School in Mooresville, NC, where I’m continuing my academic studies. Outside of school, I train and perform with the Neighborhood Dance Encore Team and study acting through the Children’s Theater of Charlotte’s Acting Conservatory. I also receive opera voice training with Melinda Whittington to further develop my vocal performance skills. My goal is to attend the UNC School of the Arts for my 11th and 12th grades to study in their vocal program. After high school, I plan to attend a university with a strong Musical Theater and Voice program to continue developing my performance skills. My long-term ambition is to perform professionally in North Carolina theaters, on national tours, and eventually on Broadway.

Q: What should we know about your Community Service Initiative?
A: My Community Service Initiative, “Let’s Stop Dancing Around Allergies,” focuses on raising awareness about food allergies, supporting medical research, and promoting food safety education. Living with more than 15 allergies myself, I understand how serious and unpredictable they can be.

Through this initiative, I aim to amplify the voices of those living with allergies and create safer, more inclusive communities. I am partnering with FOODiversity to help bring allergy-safe foods and awareness programs to local schools and community events. I also created @NCAllergyGirl, a social media platform dedicated to sharing stories of others managing allergies daily, highlighting allergy-friendly businesses, and documenting my journey serving the allergy community.

As a local titleholder, Miss Carolina Foothills Teen, my objective is to use my CSI to inspire understanding, encourage advocacy, and empower families and individuals living with allergies—because no one should have to face food allergies alone.

Q: What talent did you perform at your local competition?
A: I performed a musical theater dance.

Q: Do you have any previous experience within the Miss America Opportunity?
A: This is my first year as a local titleholder.

Q: What’s one fun fact about you?
A: My joints have an amazing cracking ability – called Crepitus!

Q: What’s your favorite way to spend a day off when you’re not competing or volunteering?
A: My favorite way to spend a day off is hanging out with my friends and enjoying time together—whether we’re laughing, talking, or just relaxing and having fun.

Q: What’s your favorite way to stay #MissAmericaFit?
A: My favorite way to stay #MissAmericaFit is through dance. As a competitive dancer, I train daily to build strength, stamina, flexibility, and coordination. I also focus on maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet that supports both my physical health and a positive, healthy mindset.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger girl who looks up to you, what would it be?
A: “I’d tell them to speak up about their allergies and never be afraid to advocate for themselves. Your voice matters, and helping others understand your needs keeps you—and those around you—safe.”

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 Emily Hippensteel, Miss Carolina Foothills’ Teen 2026, throughout her year of service as she represents her community and embodies the spirit of Scholarship, Style, Service, and Success.