Net Miles Of Smiles

Miss Indiana crowned Miss America

Jan. 24, 2009 

Miss Indiana Katie Stam is crowned Miss America 2009 by Miss America 2008 Kirsten Haglund in Las Vegas.

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LAS VEGAS — Miss Indiana Katie Stam has been crowned Miss America 2009 in Las Vegas.

The 22-year-old University of Indianapolis student battled a throat infection and laryngitis throughout the week but still drew loud applause for her rendition of “Via Dolorosa” during the talent competition.

She also strutted onstage in a black bikini and an off-the-shoulder, white lace gown.

Stam, a communications major, plans to work in television news. She began competing in pageants at age 15.

The first runner-up was Miss Georgia, Chasity Hardman.