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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S TEEN MAINE
Teen Maine 2026
Aubrey Bedard
My name is Aubrey Bedard, and I’m honored to represent the beautiful state of Maine as your USOA Teen Maine 2026. I’m a proud high school senior currently taking college courses through SMCC, and I plan to study Equine Sciences with a focus on reproduction at the University of Kentucky. When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll find me spending time with my rescue horse, Biggie, a 17-hand Thoroughbred I’ve been rehabilitating and training for eventing competitions. Working with him has strengthened my passion for animals and inspired my platform, “Animal Advocacy:
Giving a Voice to the Voiceless.” As someone who has seen firsthand what it means to rescue horses from auctions, I’m deeply committed to putting a stop to animal cruelty and to highlighting the incredible animal rescues right here in Maine. Through my platform, I hope to educate others about animal welfare, promote adoption, and inspire compassion and action in my community. My ultimate goal is to become an equine reproductive specialist while continuing to lead advocacy programs that make a real difference for animals in need. I believe that true beauty comes from compassion, courage, and community and I strive every day to Empower, Inspire, and Uplift others through those values.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S MISS MAINE
Miss Maine 2026
Kelsey Sewell
I am Kelsey Sewell and I am honored to serve as USOA Miss Maine 2026, a role I approach not just as a titleholder, but as a purpose-driven ambassador for my home state, my profession, and my community.
Professionally, I am a skilled cybersecurity specialist. Over the past several years, I have worked with teams and organizations to protect digital infrastructures, guide individuals in safe online practices, and build more resilient systems and networks. I believe that in today's world, the same confidence and preparation used in pageantry - poise,
authenticity, and awareness - are equally powerful online. Through my platform, Empowering Digital Citizens, I am dedicated to helping others bring those qualities into their digital lives.
Born and raised in Houlton, I carry the warmth and work ethic of small-town Maine wherever I go. When I'm not working or volunteering, I enjoy relaxing with my dog, Molly, spending time immersed in music, and unwinding with a good video game. These quiet moments keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of balance and joy amidst busy schedules.
With a heart for mentorship, a mind for cybersecurity, and a spirit ready for challenge, I accept the responsibility of this title with gratitude. I know the crown I wear is not an endpoint, but a beginning; a chance to amplify voices, build bridges, and show that every day is an opportunity to rise up, give back, and shine.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S MS. MAINE
Ms. Maine 2026
Nicole Steinhagen
My name is Nicole Steinhagen, and I am honored to represent my home state of Maine as USOA Ms. Maine 2026. I am currently pursuing a degree in Accounting at York County Community College and expect to graduate in 2027.
I am a lifelong martial artist with over 20 years of experience. I earned my first junior black belt at the age of 10 and my full black belt at 16. I began competing in martial arts tournaments at 14 and have had the opportunity to travel throughout New England with my team, Team Straight Up, inspiring others to achieve their goals along the way. By the time I retired from competition, I had earned four WCMA World Championships, received two KRANE Hall of Fame inductions, and donated hundreds of trophies to a local martial arts charity tournament.
In 2015, I lost my grandfather to suicide, which became the driving force behind my platform, #EndTheSilence – Let’s Talk About Suicide. Through one of their community walks, I connected with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Maine Chapter, where I now serve on the Board of Directors and have volunteered over 1,500 hours toward community projects. I have also designed and distributed two mental health awareness stickers, now featured in several states and two schools in Maine.
I believe that the crown provides a powerful platform to make a greater impact and amplify my voice in the state that will always have my heart.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S MRS. MAINE
Mrs. Maine 2026
Jessica Ashe
I am Jessica Ashe and I am so honored to be Mrs. Maine 2026. I am a wife to Scott and proud mom to four amazing boys: Nicholas, Benjamin, Brayden, and Nathan, as well as two wonderful bonus children, Cameron and Caitlin. I serve as the Human Resources Director for an agency supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I absolutely love being surrounded by family and friends, whether it’s hosting game nights, holiday gatherings, or just enjoying good company. I also have a passion for exploring our beautiful state of Maine and all the hidden gems it has to offer.
My platform, Light in the Dark, was inspired by the loss of my son, Nicholas, in 2020. It’s centered on helping individuals and families see that while life can be shattered by loss, there is hope and light to be found on the other side. Over the next year, I plan to stay deeply involved in Maine’s grief community- sharing my story, connecting with others, and advocating for better bereavement leave so every family has the time and space they need to heal.
