March 26 2015: Have you ever set a tough goal and achieved it? Erin Simonek, a junior at North Royalton High School, did just that. On February 28, Erin was crowned Miss Greater Cleveland’s Outstanding Teen in the Miss America Scholarship Organization. She had placed 1st and 2nd runner up in this organization in the past, and set her goal to earn the teen title before aging out of the program next year. The Miss Ohio Pageants started including the teen division of competition in 2005.
The competition consisted of a private interview, fitness routine, talent, evening gown, and onstage question. Erin’s talent was a Jazz Dance to “You’re Never Fully Dressed without a Smile.” She is active at NRHS in Royalettes and Dance Team.
Simonek plans to major in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Political Science. Erin has also held the titles of Little Miss North Royalton 2007 and Princess North Royalton 2012.
Winning this current title was particularly special because her first pageant director, Sylvia Jensen with her husband Harvey, were in the audience watching. Although Sylvia has retired from the Miss America Organization after 50 years and of the North Royalton Pageant as well, Sylvia instilled perseverance in Erin. This became Erin’s passion and platform “Perseverance is Key.” “I even mentioned Sylvia in my interview when asked about my platform, because if it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am in pageants or in my life,” Erin said. “She has nurtured and molded many of our local competitors, and I am proud to be called one of her girls.”
“I believe that it was the best time in my life to win this title,” Simonek said, “and now I can use my platform to motivate and inspire others to follow their dreams.” She lives in North Royalton with her parents, Joe and Pauline Simonek, and her brother, Evan.
“To say that I am proud of Erin is an understatement. To see your child achieve a difficult goal is an amazing sight, and I know that this has opened many doors for her future and her life.” Pauline said.