Sept. 13, 1964 - Miss Arizona, 21-year-old Vonda Kay Van Dyke (right) of Phoenix, was named Miss America for 1965 last night at the annual pageant in Atlantic City’s Convention Hall.
Miss Van Dyke, a senior at Arizona State University, won over four other finalists. She is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. A.B. Van Dyke.
The new Miss America is a graduate of Phoenix Christian High School and Phoenix Junior College. She wants to enter teaching when she completes her college education.
Miss Van Dyke, who stands 5-6, is a supporter of Senator Barry Goldwater, who also comes from Phoenix. Her father is a Phoenix osteopath.
The new Miss America was crowned by Donna Axum (left) of El Dorado, Ark., last year’s titlist.
Bert Parks, the master of ceremonies, serenaded the winner with “There She Is, Miss America,” the official pageant theme song.
The contestants were judged on the basis of beauty — in swimsuit and evening gown — talent, and personality. The winners of the evening gown and personality contests were kept secret until the last minute to prevent correct guesswork about the final winner.
In addition to a $10,000 scholarship, the new Miss America will travel thousands of miles during her year-long reign and will earn about $75,000 in booking fees.
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