"Don’t wait for anyone to hand you opportunities!"

We are so proud of the incredible service Caitlin Brunell did for the state of Alabama this past year! Not only was she Miss Alabama, but she also created Caitlin's Closet, a non-profit dedicated to providing clothes to the less fortunate! Thanks for being our #WCW!

1. What's your story? What makes you unique?

I was born in Seattle, Washington. I have lived in 7 different states and attended 3 different high schools. I have 3 younger brothers. In May of 2014, I graduated from the University of Alabama with a Degree in Dance and Minor in Computing Applications and Technology.

At the age of 14, I began competing in the Miss America Organization. The MAO has a “little sister” program called Miss America’s Outstanding Teen. In 2007, I represented the state of Virginia and was honored to be the youngest to ever win the title in 2008. This led me to compete and win the title of Miss Alabama in 2014. From there, I went on to compete in the Miss America pageant this past September, where I placed in the top 10 and won the Quality of Life Award which is given to the contestant that displays the most commitment to enhancing the quality of life for others through volunteerism and community service. Throughout my time competing in the MAO I earned over $96,000 in scholarship money which allowed me to graduated from one of the top universities in the country debt free.

2. What motivates you?

I find Inspirational quotes extremely motivating; some of them are silly, but they work for me! I have them all over my apartment and I am always looking for new material.

3. Who is a hero of yours?

My Dad. He has taught me the importance of having a servant’s heart. I began visiting my first Children’s Miracle Network hospital with him at age 10. I realized that even a kid like me could make a big difference. I would say that he is responsible for lighting my fire for helping others at a young age.

4. What is your future plan? Goals?

Since recently giving up my title as Miss Alabama, I have moved to Jacksonville, FL where my family currently resides. I will continue to focus on growing Caitlin’s Closet. Next spring, I plan to move to NYC to obtain my Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management while hopefully reaching one of my lifelong dreams of performing on Broadway.

5. If you could give one piece of advice what would it be?

Close tie ;)

• You get out of life what you put into it. Don’t wait for anyone to hand you opportunities, go out and create the opportunities for yourself. Be a self-starter.

• Your beauty comes from within. You can come in contact with someone who outwardly seems to be the most beautiful person you have ever seen. However if she has an ugly spirit and heart, your view of that person changes. Always be kind, encouraging and love other people.

6. What’s one of the coolest things you've ever done?

When I was 18, I traveled to London alone to work as a nanny for a month. My trip began with being held in customs for hours while I was interrogated, my bags were searched, and all of my money was stolen… Talk about a baptism by fire!

7. What is something that you feel strongly about?

Giving back and empowering those less fortunate. At 15, I started my own non profit, Caitlin’s Closet. Caitlin’s Closet provides prom and homecoming dresses for high school girls, wedding gowns for women as well as interview suits for both women and men across the country. I strive to remind those that I meet that no one has to be defined by their life circumstances. My interactive website, www.caitlinscloset.org, opens the door to one-stop shopping, providing resources and links that will help people of all ages, gender, and ethnicities to take the next step.