Gresham, Oregon
Born and raised in Gresham, a suburb of Portland, Oregon, Harman's interest in the Miss America Pageant grew out of a need to seek scholarship funds during her freshman year of college. Encouraged by her high school drama teacher, and fueled by a talent for public speaking and musical performance, Harman decide to pursue the Miss America title. In September 2001, Harman was named Miss America 2002, the first Pacific Northwest woman to hold that title.
As Miss America 2002, Harman earned $75,000 in scholarship money to further pursue her studies at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. In addition, Harman spearheaded numerous initiatives and activities during her post, including making an emotionally moving visit to the World Trade Center's Ground Zero site; traveling an average of 20,000 miles a month to communicate her platform of support for breast cancer patients; performing with the Boston Pops on July 4, 2002; visiting numerous military bases; meeting with First Lady, Laura Bush; and organizing and co-authoring "Under the Crown: 51 Stories of Courage, Determination and the American Spirit," a compilation of essays from last year's Miss America contestants about participating in a age-old tradition while under the shadow of the country's worst tragedy in decades. Proceeds from sales of the book will go towards Miss America contestant scholarships.
Harman is currently busy with speaking and musical engagements. In addition, Harman will continue her work with breast cancer patients while pursuing her speech communications and vocal performance at Portland State. Katie aspires to one day earn her Masters degree in Bioethics and work as a strong voice in health care.
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