Batu-Tiako Wins Miss Iowa Competition

Oskaloosa–Abigaille Batu-Tiako (Sr., Plattsburg, N.Y., Business Management) is newly-crowned royalty after winning the crown of Miss Iowa 2024 recently.

Batu-Tiako, who concluded her William Penn track and field career this spring with an NAIA All-America honor in the long jump, won the Miss Iowa pageant competition in Davenport on June 15. She will look to become the first Miss Iowa to take the title of Miss America (the state has had two runners-up); the 2025 Miss America pageant will be held in January.

“It is an incredible honor to represent the state of Iowa at Miss America,” Batu-Tiako said. “I give all the glory to God. After the best collegiate athletic season of my life and becoming William Penn’s first female All-American since 2011, I was eager to bring the same integrity and passion into Miss Iowa week.”

Along with the sash, crown, and title, Batu-Tiako earned scholarships that totaled $10,950. She won the Jessica Pray Patel vocal scholarship of $250 for being the highest-scoring vocalist in the talent portion. Batu-Tiako, who entered the competition as Miss Polk County, earned $200 for her preliminary on-stage question as well.

“Iowa, I am excited to continue serving you and hopeful to secure our first national win at Miss America 2025,” Batu-Tiako said.

As Miss Iowa, Batu-Tiako’s community service initiative is The United Voices. She hopes to one day launch a skincare business.

Batu-Tiako’s journey for the Miss America title can be followed on Instagram @missamericaia