Miss Long Island crowns 2027 queens as pageant celebrates historic wins and a decade of leadership

In a dazzling display of grace and empowerment, the Madison Theatre at Molloy University transformed into a vibrant arena of dreams on November 1, 2026. As the lights dimmed and the crowd held its breath, two remarkable young women stepped into the spotlight, poised to make their mark on history. Alexa Cox, a spirited 25-year-old from Central Islip, was crowned Miss Long Island 2027, while the talented Valentina Chapman, a 15-year-old from Franklin Square, captured the title of Miss Long Island Teen 2027. Their victories not only celebrated their individual journeys but also marked a significant milestone for the pageant itself.

What Happened

The 18th annual Miss Long Island Pageant, produced by J&L Dream Productions and led by Executive Director Leanne Pinard Baum, brought together an inspiring group of contestants from across Nassau and Suffolk counties. The event was a testament to the enduring values of confidence, community service, and personal achievement that the pageant embodies. Alexa's win was particularly poignant, as it came nearly a decade after she first graced the stage as Miss Long Island Teen 2018. This full-circle moment not only showcased her growth but also highlighted a historic back-to-back achievement for the organization. Alexa is the second former Miss Long Island Teen to ascend to the Miss Long Island title, following Geanna Koulouris, who held the Miss Long Island Teen title in 2019 and served as Miss Long Island 2026.

Alexa Cox's journey to the crown has been one of determination and resilience. Beyond the pageantry, she has carved a niche as a public relations and events coordinator and is an ambassador for Girls With Impact, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women through entrepreneurial and professional development skills. Her platform, the "G.R.I.T. Mindset Mantra," encapsulates her philosophy of perseverance, urging individuals to give their all, redo when necessary, ignore the urge to quit, and tap into available resources. This mantra embodies her belief that resilience is crucial for success, and she plans to launch a middle school speaking tour across Long Island to instill this mindset in students.

Valentina Chapman, crowned Miss Long Island Teen 2027, also brings a powerful narrative to her title. A sophomore at H. Frank Carey High School, Valentina has faced her own challenges, including bullying and mental health struggles. Her advocacy is deeply personal, as she has turned her experiences into a platform called "Let’s Create & Be Kind." This initiative encourages teenagers to express themselves creatively, fostering positive self-esteem and community involvement. With over 1,100 hours of community service under her belt, Valentina has organized various charitable events, including lemonade stands and pen pal programs with older adults. Her mission resonates deeply: "In a world where you can be anything, be kind."

Community Reaction

The night was not just a celebration of titles but a reflection of the community's spirit and support for young women striving to make a difference. Leanne Pinard Baum, celebrating her 10th anniversary as the executive director of the Miss Long Island organization, emphasized the importance of mentorship and community involvement in shaping confident leaders. Her journey began as a contestant in the Miss Long Island Teen pageant in 2010, and her decade-long leadership has been instrumental in fostering a nurturing environment for contestants.

Baum's commitment to empowering women has resulted in a legacy that extends beyond the stage. Under her guidance, the pageant has seen former contestants pursue successful careers in diverse fields such as law, medicine, journalism, and entrepreneurship. This emphasis on mentorship aligns with the organization's motto: "Empowering Women. Inspiring Leaders." The pageant serves as a launchpad for young women, providing them with opportunities to develop skills that will benefit them long after the crowns are passed.

The excitement in the theater was palpable as former titleholders Nadgeena Jerome and Lianne Webb hosted the event, welcoming the next generation of queens with warmth and encouragement. Outgoing titleholders, including Geanna Koulouris and Shyla Silva, took their final walks, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and support that defines the Miss Long Island community. Their legacies will undoubtedly inspire Alexa and Valentina as they embark on their own journeys.

Impact on the Community

The Miss Long Island Pageant is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of community spirit and resilience. The impact of the newly crowned queens extends beyond their titles, as they are poised to engage in public appearances and charitable initiatives throughout Long Island. Their commitment to community outreach reflects a shared vision of fostering positive change and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

As representatives of Long Island, Alexa and Valentina will actively participate in various events, spreading messages of empowerment and kindness. Their platforms, rooted in personal experiences, resonate with young people facing similar challenges. By sharing their stories, they hope to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions.

Through initiatives like the partnership between Girls With Impact and the Miss Long Island Pageant, young women will have access to valuable resources that can enhance their professional and entrepreneurial skills. This collaboration aims to create a supportive network that fosters growth and development, ensuring that contestants leave with more than just a title.

What's Next

Looking ahead, the future appears bright for both Alexa and Valentina as they prepare to compete for the Miss New York USA and Miss New York Teen USA titles, respectively. Their journey is not merely about winning a crown but about transforming personal experiences into meaningful change. The upcoming year will be filled with opportunities to engage with the community, promote their platforms, and inspire young women across Long Island.

The Miss Long Island organization has announced that the next pageant will take place on December 11, 2027, at the Madison Theatre, where new dreams will be born and new stories will unfold. As the legacy of empowering women continues, the community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this inspiring journey.

In a world where challenges abound, the stories of Alexa Cox and Valentina Chapman remind us of the power of resilience, kindness, and community. Their reign as queens will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Long Island, inspiring future generations to embrace their potential and lead with purpose.