Miss Alabama 2026: Ruby Tilghman, Miss Birmingham, wins the crown

The crown has found a new home. Ruby Tilghman, representing as Miss Birmingham, was officially crowned Miss Alabama Saturday night at Samford University’s Wright Center.

At just 22 years old, Tilghman outperformed 44 other contestants to secure the state title. She now turns her sights toward the national stage as she prepares to represent the Yellowhammer State at the Miss America competition.

A New Chapter

The transition of power saw 2025 titleholder Emma Terry pass the torch to her successor with a traditional bouquet of roses. For Tilghman, the reality of the victory was a dream realized.

“As soon as they announced (my name), I had this thought of, ‘Wow! It’s real,’” Tilghman shared backstage. “I know that sounds cliche and it’s probably predictable, but it really is such a human experience to dream about something for so long, and then to finally get there.”

A Bright Future

A University of Alabama graduate with a degree in chemistry, Tilghman is already looking beyond the pageant stage. She plans to further her academic journey at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Heersink School of Medicine. Though originally from Panama City, Florida, she credits her time in Alabama with fostering a deep sense of local pride.

“A state this incredible has the ability to inspire commitment in its citizens,” she noted. “It’s something that I wanted to share in this role, and I’m now getting to do it.”

The Road to the Crown

Tilghman’s path to the win included a strong showing in preliminary rounds, where she took top honors in evening gown and talent. On Saturday, her vocal performance of “I Dreamed A Dream” helped solidify her spot among the 14 semifinalists and eventually the final five.

The competition focused on talent, evening wear, health and fitness, and on-stage interviews. Following the format established after the elimination of the swimsuit segment, the event emphasized activewear and community service initiatives, including Tilghman’s platform, 57 Miles: Answering the Needs of Your Community.

Final Standings

The top five finishers included:

• Ruby Tilghman, Miss Birmingham (Winner)
• Julia Schumacher, Miss Tuscaloosa (First runner-up)
• Jayla Duncan, Miss East Alabama (Second runner-up)
• Elaina Burt, Miss Jefferson County (Third runner-up)
• Alana Price, Miss Samford University (Fourth runner-up)

The event also featured special performances from Miss Alabama’s Teen 2026, Grier Feldman, and was emceed by former Miss Alabama and Miss America winner Abbie Stockard.