Madison Woman, Fitchburg Teen Win 'Miss Madison' Competitions

MADISON, WI — On Saturday, a Madison woman and Fitchburg teen were crowned Miss Madison and Miss Madison’s Teen 2024 at East High School.

Halle Bender, 22, of Madison was named Miss Madison. Natalie Popp, 15, of Fitchburg was named Miss Madison’s Teen.

Bender and Popp will advance to the Miss Wisconsin and Miss Wisconsin's Teen Competitions that are set to be held in Oshkosh in June.

Bender promoted breast cancer education and awareness for her community service initiative.

"One in 8 is an initiative designed to raise awareness about breast cancer along with early warning signs and symptoms, breast cancer prevention, and how to be involved in your community while contributing to the fight against breast cancer," said Bender in a news release.

"Having been involved in this initiative for 4 years and hearing how our organization has helped survivors and families of cancer patients, I knew I wanted to personally advocate for this cause."

Popp advocated for teens to give back to military veterans.

"My interest in helping veterans began at a third grade field trip to a Badger Honor Flight Homecoming," said Popp.

"Since then, I have learned the importance of always thanking a veteran for their service, no matter when or where. As Miss Madison’s Teen, I will continue to share my passion with other teens about community involvement and the importance of thanking our veterans."

Both Bender and Popp plan to expand their service efforts throughout the greater Madison community and represent the area for the next year.

Bender won $700 in scholarships for winning the overall competition, fitness, and evening gown. Popp won $300 in scholarships for winning the overall competition and interview.

More than $1,000 in additional awards were distributed, including:

• Abby Miller, $250, first runner-up and overall talent
• Brystal Schultz, $150, second runner-up
• Cassidy Sairs, $100, third runner-up
• Allison Hoffman, $200, overall and non-finalist interview
• Allison Wisinski, $50, non-finalist talent
• Kiana Loman, $50, non-finalist fitness
• Margret Hinze, $50, non-finalist evening gown
• Cora Pizon, $100, Miss Congeniality
• Alexis Ullrich, $150, Teen first runner-up and overall talent
• Kaia Jacobson, $50, Teen Miss Congeniality

Miss Madison and Miss Madison’s Teen are official local preliminaries to the larger Miss Wisconsin and Miss America competitions.