2026 Miss DC Contestants

Kathleen Bostick graduated Magna Cum Laude from Spelman College, earning her Bachelor of Science degree. Nationally recognized for research in plant biology, neuroscience, and environmental science, she became one of the first Black women to receive an Astronaut Award. Fearless in her pursuit, she is a pilot, scuba diver, and skydiver, leading with courage and resilience. She founded InterstelHER, an initiative empowering women to pursue STEAM by collaborating with the Smithsonian Museums, DC Public Schools, and local policymakers. She plans to attend medical school, earn a PhD in neuroscience, and become the first Black woman to land on the moon.

Christine is a former White House aide and current congressional staffer whose passion for public service is inspired by the civil rights legacy of her late father. Through her initiative “Girl Gov,” she empowers young women to pursue leadership in politics and public service. Graduating college on a full-tuition speech and debate scholarship inspired her to champion access to speech education, give back as a debate judge, and serve on the board of Congressional Black Associates, the largest Black staff association on Capitol Hill. A proud Union Market resident, Christine plans to earn her MBA and become a Fortune 500 C-suite executive, guided by the belief that perseverance leads to a brighter future ahead.

A proud military kid with a heart for service, Aria Austin is a Public Affairs Advisor at a major law firm in DC. She previously served in the U.S. Senate after graduating from William & Mary as a Cypher Award recipient. Aria is Chief of Staff for the Black Tech Collective and former President of the Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus. Through her initiative “Pretty Is As Pretty Does” (#PIAPD), she promotes mental wellness and kindness by redefining “pretty” as an action word. An award-winning vocalist and creator for DC Nudge, Aria hopes to unite her passions for the arts, service, and policy as an intellectual property attorney.

Singer, speaker, and communications consultant  Lydia Fisher is one of the District's emerging and dynamic young voices. As the Public Relations Specialist for a nationally recognized firm, she brings stories to life and helps clients shine. A lifelong performer, Lydia has taken the stage more than 250 times nationwide, partnering with service organizations through her initiative, “Lydia’s Light,” which empowers individuals with learning disabilities. In addition, she has also volunteered countless hours with our nation’s veterans. Living in her dream city while working her dream job, Lydia enjoys exploring the National Mall and visiting the Smithsonian Museums, and hopes to inspire others to reach their dreams.

Maria is an honors graduate of Pepperdine Law School, where she ranked in the top 12% of her class, competed on the Interschool Moot Court Team, served as a Legal Research and Writing Teaching Assistant, and earned top-grade awards in four courses. She clerked for a U.S. Senate Committee and an Alexandria litigation firm, where she will return after sitting for the July bar exam. Prior to law school, Maria graduated as valedictorian of her undergraduate business school and spent two years as a buyer in the fashion industry. Inspired by her parents’ and sister’s military service, Maria empowers and supports military families through her initiative, “Homefront Heroes: Honoring America’s Blue Star Families.” She aspires to one day serve as White House Press Secretary or a political journalist. 

Bio Coming Soon!