Tara Dawn Holland is an American beauty pageant contestant, who was Miss America 1997. Holland was born in Overland Park, Kansas. After six years as a local literacy advocate and tutor, she took her cause to the national spotlight when she was crowned Miss America 1997. She spent the year fighting for literacy education for people of all ages and backgrounds, as well as raising funds and motivating those involved in the cause. Since her year of service, she has continued to speak for local, state, and national organizations on this critical issue. In addition to traveling as a speaker, Holland has enjoyed many opportunities to perform musically. She has been featured as a vocal soloist with the Kansas City Symphony, the U.S. Air Force Band, and the NATO Band in Italy. She was also a featured vocalist in the nationally-televised Boston Pops Fourth of July Celebration and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In addition, she had the honor of singing for two of President George W. Bush's inaugural events, including the Armory Ball, the largest official Inaugural Ball. 

October 2nd, 1972 in Overland Park (Age 52)