Anna Claire Hay is Miss Arkansas USA 2026

Anna Claire Hay, is a proud native of Northwest Arkansas currently residing in Fayetteville. A graduate of the University of Arkansas and recent applicant to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Anna Claire is pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming Dr. Anna Claire Hay. She is the daughter of Greg and Kelly Brown of Springdale, Arkansas and John Hay of Houston, Texas.

Passionate about growth and challenge, Anna Claire recently completed her first half marathon and enjoys spending time with her Bernedoodle, Ace. A true Arkansas girl at heart, she loves Razorback baseball, DIY home projects, reading, and spending time on the lake.

Beyond the crown, Anna Claire has dedicated her life to serving others across the state of Arkansas. In 2019, she was honored as Arkansas’s Top Youth Volunteer for her work through her nonprofit organization, You Can Sit With Us, a 501(c)(3) focused on inclusion, kindness, and community impact. She is also a published author of the children’s book You Can Sit With Jackson, created to encourage kindness, acceptance, and inclusion among young students. In recognition of her commitment to service, Anna Claire has also been named a recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award Gold Award.

While attending the University of Arkansas, she was a member of Kappa Delta, where she served on the leadership team.

Anna Claire’s career in fashion and pageantry has taken her around the world, modeling for recognized designers including Ashley Lauren and Robin Towle Designs, with appearances spanning from Atlanta to Paris, France.