At Southeastern University, we are proud to celebrate students who excel academically while enriching our community. Maci Miotto (class of ‘26), a junior pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership, stands out for her remarkable dedication and impactful contributions. Recently crowned Miss Lakeland 2025, Maci exemplifies the dynamic spirit and excellence that define our university community.
A Passion for Leadership and Community Service
Before transferring to Southeastern University, Maci attended Valencia College, where she made a significant impact on campus life. She served as Student Government President, an Officer for the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, President of Campus Crusade for Christ, and an active volunteer for Valencia Volunteers. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom, demonstrating her passion for serving others and fostering community engagement.
At SEU, Maci continues to make an impact as the Lead Student Photographer for SEU Creative. Through this role, she has had the opportunity to make valuable connections and contribute to the university’s creative storytelling efforts.
Advocating for Foster Youth and Adoption Awareness
Maci plays an active role in supporting foster youth through her family’s nonprofit, Foster Youth of America, where she serves as the Outreach Coordinator. The organization works to support youth who have aged out of the foster care system, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed for success.
Additionally, Maci lends her talents as a photographer for the Heart Gallery of Central Florida, an initiative that captures portraits of children in Central Florida who are available for adoption. Through this work, she helps bring visibility to children who are in need of loving homes.
Her dedication to service has also been recognized at a national level. She has received two gold President’s Volunteer Service Awards and has been honored with letters of recognition from prominent government officials — including Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Rick Scott — for her commitment to community service.
A Rising Leader in the Miss America Organization
Maci’s commitment to leadership and service also shines through in her pageantry journey with the Miss America Organization. Over the past few years, she has earned recognition with titles such as Miss St. Lucie County’s Teen 2022 and Miss River City 2024. Most recently, her ongoing dedication has yielded impressive results.
On Sunday March 16, Maci achieved a monumental victory when she was crowned Miss Lakeland 2025. Reflecting on this achievement, she shared,
“This past Sunday, I had the distinct honor of being crowned Miss Lakeland 2025. This achievement represents the fulfillment of a prayer I have earnestly been offering for the past three years, and I would be remiss not to attribute all the glory to God.”
Maci continued, expressing both humility and purpose:
“This title symbolizes far more than a sash and crown; it provides me with the privilege to serve as a beacon of light within the Lakeland community. I am committed to sharing the light of Jesus with all those I encounter throughout my year of service.”
Her victory not only highlights her personal perseverance but also opens new avenues for service. She is excited to collaborate with Anchor House Ministries to support foster youth across Polk County. Additionally, Maci eagerly anticipates representing both Southeastern University and the city of Lakeland at the Miss Florida competition in June, which will be held right here in Lakeland at the RP Funding Center from June 25–28, 2025.
Maci’s story is a testament to the impact that dedicated students can have both on campus and in their communities. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive in her academic, professional, and philanthropic endeavors.
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