In November 1993 as a sophomore at Samford University , McCreary was crowned Miss Shoals Area 1994 . She performed " Because of Who You Are " , a song made famous by Sandi Patty , during the talent portion of the Miss Alabama competition . McCreary was second runner-up for the title and " Miss Congeniality " but the state crown went to eventual Miss America 1995 Heather Whitestone
Miss America 1995
Miss America 1995
Alison McCreary