The first time I met Nicolette Peloquin was the night her Miss America sister, Jillian Zucco was crowned Miss Massachusetts. From the moment I met Nicolette, she had a spark about her. Hailing from the seaside city, of Newport, Rhode Island, on Aquidneck Island, she proudly advocated for her personal platform, Be the Match: The National Bone Marrow Registry, throughout her reign as Miss Rhode Island 2017. Here’s a very interesting fact about Peloquin; after her 21st birthday, she donated over 360 million cells to save a stranger in another country. How amazing of an accomplishment is that! Right now Peloquin is gearing up to trade in her Miss America crown, as she passes it onto a new successor this weekend, and pick up a pair of pom-poms, as she joins the famous New England Patriots cheerleaders! I had the opportunity to catch up with Peloquin for one final and exclusive interview as Miss Rhode Island 2017.

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How does one balance the title of Miss Rhode Island, and so much more at the same time?
Time management is essential in being Miss Rhode Island or any state titleholder. I am a full time graduate student and a New England Patriots Cheerleader on top of serving as Miss RI so I live by my planner. It is color-coded and keeps me organized with events, appearances, and assignments for school!

Tell our readers a bit about how you prepared for competing in the Miss Rhode Island system? How did you use what you learned at a local level in preparing for the national pageant? What challenges did you face in preparing for Miss America?
In preparation for Miss America, I learned how important it was to enjoy the road to Atlantic City. Some days were hectic, running from dress fittings to talent rehearsal and then an evening event. Although it seemed like a lot to juggle at times, I enjoyed every second of it. I made so many memories and met the most incredible people.


What has been three of your most memorable experiences, while serving as Miss Rhode Island for your state?
Aside from Miss America (of course), I loved having Cara Mund, Miss America, visit Hasbro Children’s Hospital with me. One of the other most memorable events was attending Good Morning America to be recognized for being a donor with Be the Match. Finally, my favorite experience this year was the Miss America Homecoming in North Dakota.

How have you striven to not only promote your personal platform, but also your national platform towards Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals?
I have spoken at a number of Be the Match fundraisers and registry drives about my first hand experience as a stem cell donor. In regards to my involvement with CMNH, I have attended a number of dance marathons, Radiothon, and volunteered at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.


With the recent news which has been brought up in regards to the former Miss America Org. board, what do you hope the future of the MAO holds with their new Chairwoman, Gretchen Carlson?
It is my hope that this organization continues to give women a voice as it has for so many years. It is exciting to see women in power of a women’s scholarship organization. I am optimistic about the future of the Miss America Organization.

It seems that we’re heading into a path towards women empowerment with these changes; what advice do you have for young women who are looking to step in to the Miss America Organization?
I would tell any young woman to be true to yourself. Compete in this organization because you want to better YOURSELF, not because you want a title or crown.


Pageants, in general, are so highly criticized by so many people across the world. What do you have to say to those who speak negatively about pageants?
I would remind them that so many of us compete for the scholarship and service opportunities. Yes, it is exciting to go to Miss America, but we complete this year of services to touch the lives of those in our community.

Now that your reign as Miss Rhode Island , is coming to an end, what are your future plans?
I am going to continue graduate school and start my job as a Patriots Cheerleader! I am thrilled for the new opportunities I have and doors that have opened.


Regardless of whoever becomes the new Miss  Rhode Island , what is one goal you have for her, which you hope she is able to accomplish during her reign?
It is my goal that she connects with as many people as possible. As Miss Rhode Island, you have the ability to make so many people’s days so it is crucial that you smile and try to talk to every person you meet.

What words of advice do you have for the new class of contestants who are getting ready to compete for your title?
Do not worry about the woman standing next to you. Be the best version of yourself and everything will fall into place!


What words of thanks for you have for your director, Allison Rogers?
Allison is the definition of committed. She manages my schedule, production, and contestants. When I tell you she does it all, she truly does! As a former Miss Rhode Island, she understands the challenges and triumphs that are experienced throughout a year of service. She is devoted to bettering the organization each year and I could not be more thankful for her.

Who else would you like to thank for supporting you throughout this journey?
My family and family friends have been unbelievable throughout this experience. They drive, fly, and take trains to support me. I love you all and I am so excited to take this journey to the sidelines!

Where can people follow you on social media post-reign?
IG: @Nicolette_Gianna.

What final words do you have for the readers of Bravura Magazine?
Thank you to everyone who believed in me and supported me throughout this year!!