Nia Franklin Miss America 2019 visited with students at the Ron Clark Academy as a judge in The Amazing Shake National Competition on Thursday.
The Amazing Shake is a competition that places an emphasis on teaching students manners, discipline, respect, and professional conduct. Prior to the competition, students learn the nuances of professional human interaction as they are taught skills such as how to give a proper handshake, how to “work a room,” how to give a successful interview, and how to remain composed under pressure.
On Thursday, those skills were put to the test. With about 37 stations in place, students were faced with a variety of scenarios to test their skills from a conversation with Miss America to a mock White House Press Conference.
“Today was one of the most memorable days I have had as Miss America! As the judge at the first station, I was the initial person students came in contact with and my question was ‘What would you like people to know about the Ron Clark Academy?’” said Franklin. “Time after time, the answer consisted of the word ‘passion.’ The students want the world to know that they are passionate about learning and that their teachers are passionate about being there. What more could we ask for from an educational institution?”
Franklin served as a volunteer judge alongside more than 60 professionals and leaders from the Atlanta community. Co-founders Ron Clark and Kim Bearden were also in attendance.
“We are so honored to have Miss America here,” said Bearden. “We love for our students to see women who are powerful and strong, but yet compassionate; women who care about others and uplift the community. Nia completely embodies all of the qualities that we seek to instill in our students.”
Visiting with students across the country is just one part of Franklin’s job. As an arts education advocate, Franklin has worked with the likes of Lincoln Center, ASCAP, and Julliard to bring attention to the need for more arts education in schools.
In addition, Franklin is the national ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and serves as a partner for Sing for Hope, an international organization.