Community Writer
Nov 18, 2024
A Celebration of Leadership, Service, and Empowered Young Women in Vallejo and Beyond
The historic Empress Theatre in Vallejo was the setting for an unforgettable evening on Saturday, November 16, 2024, as the community gathered to celebrate the Miss Vallejo/Tri-City, Miss Vallejo/Tri-City Teen, and Miss Napa County competitions. This annual event showcased the intelligence, passion, and leadership of young women who are making an impact in their communities through advocacy, service, and purpose-driven initiatives.
Celebrating the 2025 Winners
Vallejo.City proudly congratulates the newly crowned leaders for 2025, who each bring a unique vision to their platforms:
MISS TONYA JOHNSON, crowned Miss Vallejo/Tri-City 2025, is focusing her platform on promoting positive opportunities for youth impacted by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Through advocacy and actionable initiatives, Tonya is determined to empower the next generation to thrive despite their past hardships. | MISS SUHANI GIR, crowned Miss Vallejo/Tri-City Teen 2025, is dedicated to providing support to those impacted by homelessness. Her compassionate efforts aim to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and create pathways for individuals to rebuild their lives. | MISS DELANEY O'CONNELL, crowned Miss Napa County 2025, is championing her passion for leveling the playing field for female athletes. Through her work, Delaney is striving for equity in sports, ensuring young women everywhere have access to opportunities that inspire confidence and ambition. |
These remarkable young women are not only leaders but also role models, using their platforms to address critical community issues and inspire others to act.
A Night of Excellence, Tradition, and Innovation
The Miss Vallejo/Tri-City competitions are rooted in a proud legacy that traces back to the inception of the Miss America pageant in 1921. Founded as a celebration of women’s talent, intelligence, and civic engagement, the pageant has evolved into a powerful platform for advocacy, education, and leadership development.
The event began with a stirring Presentation of the Flag by Fairfield High School JROTC and the National Anthem performed by Sonoma Mulvihill, setting the stage for an evening filled with talent, grace, and purpose.
This year’s Master of Ceremonies, Ellery Jones, Miss Colorado 2018, brought her expertise and energy to the event. As a Harvard graduate and advocate for reducing sexual violence on campuses, Ellery exemplified the spirit of leadership and service.
The program included a variety of segments, from the on-stage interviews to the presentation of Community Service Initiatives (CSIs), where each delegate outlined their plans to create positive change. Performances, including one by Jasmine Wu, Miss San Jose’s Teen 2024, further captivated the audience.
This year’s event introduced a new role for Vallejo’s City Manager, Andrew Murray who served as Voting Auditor. Known for championing “community evergreens” — initiatives that create lasting impacts — Murray’s presence highlighted the importance of civic involvement.
The panel of distinguished judges also deserves recognition for their thoughtful evaluations, ensuring the evening celebrated not only beauty but also intellect, commitment, and heart. Judges include:
Jennifer Baker, Director of Library & Cultural Services for City of Benicia
Ada Brown, Founder of The Lady Echelon Project
Orlando Graham, Executive Director of Boys & Girls Empowerment Group
Sarah Lopez, Writer and Former Executive Director of Miss Napa County
Katie O'Brien, Owner of Cosign & Design Napa
Shelby Sinker, Miss California's Outstanding Teen 2008
Farewell to a Trailblazer
The evening also marked a heartfelt goodbye to Sydney Amaya Allen, the inaugural Miss Vallejo/Tri-City 2024 titleholder. Sydney reflected on her transformative year in a touching farewell video and program souvenir, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve her community and inspire others. Her words of wisdom to the new titleholders were a testament to her growth and commitment.
Sydney’s impact extended far beyond Vallejo — she made dozens of appearances, competed in the Miss California pageant, and embodied the values of leadership and compassion. Her legacy sets a high bar for future titleholders.
Building a Legacy of Support and Advocacy
Dr. Lynette Parker, Executive Director of the Miss Vallejo Scholarship and Research Alliance, highlighted the organization’s strides in becoming a nonprofit 501(c)(3) and awarding over $3,500 in scholarships and stipends. The Alliance is dedicated to training young women in research and advocacy to address societal challenges and influence decision-making at all levels.
“As you will see tonight, these young ladies have great plans for themselves and their communities. They are richly invested in making the world a better place: one that is full of kindness and compassion, one that is inclusive and respectful, and one that helps build people up rather than tearing them down.”
The competition demonstrated the powerful impact of Community Service Initiatives (CSIs). From supporting homeless populations to bridging trust between police and the community, these initiatives reflect the delegates’ dedication to making the world a better place.
Be a Part of the Legacy
The Miss Vallejo/Tri-City and Miss Napa County competitions are more than a pageant — they are a platform for young women to lead, grow, and make a difference. The community can play a vital role in this journey:
Become a Sponsor: Support the program to help create opportunities for young women to shine and advocate for meaningful causes.
Make a Donation: Become a "Friend of the Miss Vallejo Scholarship and Research Alliance" by making a donation to support the delegates in implementing their CSIs.
Encourage Participation: Inspire young women to apply as delegates for the 2026 competition.
For more information about sponsorship opportunities, delegate requirements, and the mission of the Miss Vallejo Scholarship and Research Alliance, visit missvallejotricity.org.
The 2024 competitions exemplified the values of compassion, empowerment, and service — leaving the audience inspired and hopeful for the future. Let’s continue to celebrate and support these incredible young leaders as they turn their visions into reality.
Congratulations once again to Tonya, Suhani, and Delaney — you are making Vallejo, Napa, and beyond proud!