Life After the Crown: Grace Stanke, Miss America 2023, Continues Her Advocacy for Clean Energy and Takes on New Adventures

Grace Stanke, who captured hearts and minds as Miss America 2023, has embarked on an exciting new chapter. With a background in nuclear engineering and a passion for clean energy, Grace has seamlessly transitioned from her time as Miss America to roles that continue to make a positive impact. She now works as a nuclear fuels engineer and clean energy advocate, where she develops products that support the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants. But her mission goes beyond engineering—Grace is dedicated to educating the public about the importance of sustainable electricity and energy solutions.

Her year as Miss America strengthened her ties to community work, and she remains closely connected to her roots. Grace stays involved with Miss America organizations at the local level, including the Miss America local competition in her hometown, which she began supporting during her reign. “I always love to return to Miss Wisconsin when I can!” she says, reflecting her pride in the state and in the community that first launched her on this journey.

Grace has also taken time to explore new personal adventures. Her “post-Miss America vacation” was an unforgettable one: she traveled to Tanzania, where she accomplished the amazing feat of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and got engaged at the summit! She celebrated further with an African safari before returning stateside, settling into a new home in Delaware, and adding a golden retriever puppy, Captain, to her family in August.

Reflecting on her year as Miss America, Grace says her favorite part was “the people I met.” She witnessed firsthand the resilience and dedication of women in the Miss America Opportunity (MAO), who impact their communities in powerful ways. “Despite all of MAO’s struggles in recent years, two things remain constant: the positive impact the women have on their communities and the fact that the women are future leaders and icons with or without a crown.”

The year ahead promises to be just as exciting for Grace. In the spring, she’ll start pursuing her MBA while continuing to work full-time in nuclear engineering. She’s also in the midst of writing a book, planning a wedding, waterskiing, hiking across the globe, and breaking new ground for engineers and communicators in her field. Grace Stanke’s journey may have started with a crown, but her story is one of a remarkable young woman committed to her passions and paving the way for future generations in clean energy and engineering.