Meet Haleigh Jo Baker, the new Miss Fayetteville 2026!

We’re so excited to introduce Haleigh Jo Baker, the newly crowned Miss Fayetteville 2026! She is from Zebulon, NC. She earned her title on October 25, 2025, and will go on to represent her community on the Miss North Carolina stage in June 2026!

Let’s get to know her a little better!

Digital Spotlight interview with Haleigh Jo Baker

Q: Tell us a little about yourself!
A: I was born and raised in Zebulon, but I currently reside in Fayetteville, NC. I am a 2023 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with a Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics, concentration in Secondary Mathematics Education and a minor in Business Administration. I am looking to apply to graduate school to obtain a Master’s degree in School Administration. Then I will set my eyes towards my Ph.D. Yet on a teacher’s salary, that can be almost impossible. However, with the scholarship opportunities that the Miss North Carolina Scholarship Foundation provides for the next Miss North Carolina, that can transform the impossible into the possible. Eventually, I plan to obtain a Ph.D. in Education, becoming North Carolina’s fifth female Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Q: What should we know about your Community Service Initiative?
A: As Miss Fayetteville 2026, and with an eye towards serving as the next Miss North Carolina, my mission is to transform appreciation into action through my Community Service Initiative, Putting the “PRO” back into Professional: Advocating for North Carolina’s Teachers, using my “3 Straight A’s” plan:
Acknowledge: Advocate for fair compensation by supporting legislation like the American Teacher Act and the North Carolina Blueprint for Action to ensure teachers are paid as the professionals they are.

Assist: Provide resources and support for educators through classroom supply drives, community partnerships, and volunteer initiatives that directly benefit local schools.

Advocate: Use my platform to amplify teacher voices—meeting with local and state leaders, speaking at school board meetings, and encouraging community members to engage in education policy.

Education is the heartbeat of every profession. By supporting and sustaining our teachers, we invest in the future of every child, every community, and every career.

Q: What talent did you perform at your local competition?
A: I performed a clogging routine. 

Q: Do you have any previous experience within the Miss America Opportunity?
A: Previously, I have held the titles of Miss Spivey’s Corner 2023, Miss Greater Sandhills’ Outstanding Teen’s Carolina Princess 2013, and Miss North Carolina’s Carolina Princess 2011.

Q: What’s one fun fact about you?
A: I am a devoted lover and collector of greeting cards and candles.

Q: What’s your favorite way to spend a day off when you’re not competing or volunteering?
A: Honestly, my favorite way to spend a day off is just slowing down and enjoying the little things. I love starting my morning by saying positive affirmations and setting my intention for the day. If the weather’s nice, I’ll sit outside for a while, spend time journaling, or go for a long walk—both help me recharge. I’m a big believer in balance, so I also love cooking dinner or catching up on a favorite show in the evening. Those quiet, cozy moments help me reset and remind me to enjoy the little things in life.

Q: What’s your favorite way to stay #MissAmericaFit?
A: My favorite way to stay #MissAmericaFit is by finding fun ways to move my body that also make me happy! I love going for long walks or runs outside—it’s my way to clear my mind and enjoy some sunshine. I also really enjoy lifting weights and dance workouts because they keep me motivated and make exercise feel more like a celebration than a chore. And of course, staying fit isn’t just about physical health—it’s about balance! I make sure to fuel my body with good food, get enough rest, and take time for my mental and emotional wellness, too.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger girl who looks up to you, what would it be?
A: “If I could give one piece of advice to a younger girl who looks up to me, I’d tell her this: life is like a camera—focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, take another shot. You don’t have to have everything figured out to start chasing your dreams. There will be moments that don’t go as planned, but those are the ones that teach you the most. Stay focused on what truly matters, celebrate your small wins, learn from your challenges, and never be afraid to try again. Every “second shot” is just another chance to become an even better version of yourself.”

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 Haleigh Jo Baker, Miss Fayetteville 2026, throughout her year of service as she represents her community and embodies the spirit of Scholarship, Style, Service, and Success.