CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman resident Cheryl Parker holds the title of Ms. Alabama Senior America. She will compete in the national pageant in October.
Parker, who has judged pageants for two decades, was first introduced to the idea of competing for the senior title in her mid-50s.
“Somebody approached me about doing this pageant,” she recalled. “But you have to be 60, and I wasn’t old enough yet. So I said, ‘Maybe one day.’”
Years passed, and while she stayed busy with family, mission work and community service, the opportunity arose again. When the previous state directors stepped down, the national organization began seeking a new representative from Alabama. Parker applied on a prayer and was selected as the at-large titleholder for 2025.
As she prepares for the national competition this October in Atlantic City, Parker is reflecting on what this new role means to her and what she hopes it says about growing older.
The Senior America pageant operates on the belief that “age does not diminish the beauty and potential of a woman.” Its theme, the Age of Elegance, is one Parker fully embraces. Contestants must present a personal philosophy of life as part of the competition. For Parker, her chosen philosophy is: “Be a light in the world.”
“Whether I’m doing mission work in Africa or Greece or just supporting children and orphans here at home, I try to bring hope and kindness wherever I go. True beauty is found in how we serve and love others,” she said.
Since turning 60, Parker said life has only become more fulfilling. “This stage of life has been the best so far. It’s filled with purpose, connection, and joy. I’ve embraced mission trips, supported loved ones and cherished time with my husband and family.”
Parker is no stranger to the pageant world. She competed in the Miss America system as a college student in both Texas and Arkansas before transitioning to judging, with the belief that pageants can have a positive impact on young women.
“People don’t always understand the positive impact pageants can have,” she said. “The self-confidence, the interview skills and the ability to speak publicly. Those are lifelong assets.”
Parker has also been dedicated to education for a long time, both in Cullman and globally. Through the nonprofit Kenya Relief, she has led teams of educators to Migori, Kenya, where they provide professional development for teachers and support for children in a local orphanage.
“In many cases, the teachers there haven’t had access to the resources we take for granted,” she said. “One year, I helped every teacher set up an email address and showed them how to research and use online tools. We set up a computer lab, and now they can continue learning even after we leave.”
Parker also works with Damaris House in Athens, Greece, a home for women and their children rescued from human trafficking, and locally sits on the board for First Source for Women, which supports expectant mothers in need. She is also a member of Les Dames, a women’s organization working to address period poverty in local schools by supplying free feminine hygiene products in restrooms.
“Period poverty is something I’ve encountered through my work in Africa, but it’s real here in Cullman County, too,” she said. “It’s one of many causes that is close to my heart.” Another personal passion is autism awareness, inspired by her grandson. “He’s high functioning and will be just fine,” she said with a smile, “but it’s something I’ve become very interested in learning more about and discussing with others.”
The Ms. Senior America Pageant will be held from Oct. 5-9 in Atlantic City. The competition includes an interview, an evening gown portion and a talent portion.
“I’m most looking forward to meeting the other women,” Parker said. “It’s an opportunity to network, make new friends and learn from one another.”
Contestants also participate in a gift exchange, and Parker has selected cards that show off the charm of Alabama, including fun facts about the state’s flowers, birds and famous peaches.
“I want to leave people with the impression that Alabama is a welcoming place, full of variety and warmth. Hopefully, I’ll shine a little light on our state,” she said.
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