Suzette Charles DeGaetano – 1981 Scholar

Just three years after being named New Jersey’s Presidential Scholar in 1981, Suzette Charles DeGaetano claimed another national honor – the title of Miss America 1984. An accomplished singer who had appeared in commercials and educational TV programs, Charles swept the talent competition. After her service touring the nation as Miss America, Charles continued her musical career, performing with Bill Cosby, Stevie Wonder, Lou Rawls, Alan King, and Joel Grey.