Tara Dawn Holland, Miss Kansas 1996, went on to win Miss America 1997.

While serving as Miss America 1997, Tara Dawn traveled 20,000 miles a month on her speaking tour entitled, “Literacy in America: The Power of One.” She has performed as the feature vocalist with the Kansas City Symphony, the U.S. Air Force Band, and the NATO Band. Tara Dawn also was a featured soloist in the nationally televised Boston Pops July 4th Celebration and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Most recently, she sang for President Bush’s inaugural events, including the Armory Ball, the largest official Inaugural Ball. Some of her other honors include the 1997 Kansan of the Year, President Bush’s Daily Point of Light #723, and the 1997 Kansas Woman of Achievement. Her eleven years of work in the area of literacy have led her to a role as international spokesperson with Wycliffe Bible Translators.

Tara Dawn continues to sing and speak for literacy organizations, community groups, teen sexual abstinence rallies, public and private schools, women’s ministries, churches and corporations. In 2000, Tara Dawn and her husband, former U.S. Congressman Jon Christensen, founded Cross & Crown Ministries. She also released her self-titled debut CD. For up to date information on Tara Dawn and her travels, please visit her web page.