Miss Michigan 2025: Hannah Palmer’s Inspiring Journey

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Hannah Palmer, a dedicated third-grade teacher and nonprofit founder, has recently been crowned Miss Michigan 2025, showcasing the power of versatility and passion.

A Surreal Crowning Moment

Palmer, affectionately known as Miss. Palmer in her classroom, described her crowning experience as surreal. “It felt like a blur,” she recalled, highlighting the emotional whirlwind of the event.

Inspiring the Next Generation

As a teacher, Palmer’s mission transcends academics; she aims to inspire her students to embrace their individuality and reach their fullest potential. “You are your only limitation,” she asserts, encouraging her students to believe in themselves and their dreams.

Advocacy Through the Sunflower Project

Beyond the classroom and stage, Palmer is the founder and CEO of the Sunflower Project, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health education. The organization provides essential resources to help individuals support loved ones experiencing mental health crises. “Every single one of us has mental health,” she emphasizes, advocating for the importance of regular check-ins with friends and family.

A Personal Journey with Mental Health

Palmer’s advocacy is deeply rooted in her personal experiences as a five-time suicide attempt survivor. By sharing her journey with depression and anxiety, she hopes to empower others who face similar battles. “It’s from sharing my own story that I’m able to be an advocate for so many,” she explains.

Support from Students

Despite her challenges, Palmer has made significant strides in her career, earning respect and admiration from her students. Many rallied behind her during the Miss Michigan competition, including former student Kinley Rhodes, who reflected on her experiences watching Palmer compete. “Since I was in third grade with her, I’ve gone to watch her compete every year since then,” Kinley shared.

Preparing for Miss America 2025

As she sets her sights on the upcoming Miss America 2025 competition, Palmer is focused on preparation. “For the next eight weeks, it’s all about prep and making sure I’m as ready as I can be for the job of Miss America,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to excellence.

Overcoming Adversity

Whether known as Miss Michigan, Miss Palmer, or simply Hannah, she aims to be a beacon of hope. Her journey illustrates that adversity does not define one’s identity. “You really can do it all, and your diagnosis is not a death sentence,” Palmer concludes, reminding us all of the resilience of the human spirit.