UCF senior and Miss Florida, Kristina Janolo, was in Las Vegas January 5-14 competing in the Miss America Pageant 2012. A total of 53 contestants competed in categories of personal interview, lifestyle and fitness, talent and evening gown. In addition, they made numerous appearances and media interviews.

The finals were televised on ABC on January 14. Janolo was first called as a top 15 finalist and then as a top 12 finalist. Unfortunately, her journey ended there but she was successful in earning both recognition and scholarships to complete her education.

Janolo has returned to the Sunshine State to complete her reign as Miss Florida and was back at the Capital in Tallahassee immediately upon her return lobbying with the Florida Everglades Foundation on her platform, “America’s Wake-up Call—Protect Our Environment.” She will continue to make appearances with her platform and with the Children’s Miracle hospitals, the national philanthropy of the Miss America organization.