Alexis Wineman

Alexis Wineman is an American model, public speaker, and autism advocate best known for being crowned Miss Montana 2012. She made national headlines in January 2013 when she competed in the Miss America 2013 pageant, becoming the first known contestant diagnosed with autism in the competition's long history. During the pageant, she won the prestigious America's Choice award, which secured her a position as a top-16 semifinalist.

Early Life and Diagnosis

Born on May 6, 1994, in Cut Bank, Montana, Wineman grew up in a close-knit family alongside her twin sister Amanda, older sister Danielle, and brother Nicholas. At the age of 11, after experiencing severe communication hurdles, sensory difficulties, and bullying, she was diagnosed with pervasive developmental disorder and Asperger's syndrome. Following her diagnosis, she utilized performing arts and school activities to build confidence and overcome social anxieties. She eventually became the captain of her high school cheerleading squad and participated in major national parades before pursuing public speaking and pageantry.

Pageant Success and Advocacy

In 2012, Wineman entered her first major beauty competition and won the title of Miss Montana. Representing her home state at the Miss America 2013 pageant, she selected the advocacy platform "Normal is Just a Dryer Setting: Living with Autism." Her historic participation challenged traditional standards of beauty pageants and brought widespread public attention to neurodiversity. Following her success, she toured nationwide as a motivational speaker, delivering keynotes at educational institutions, medical conferences, and non-profit conventions to promote inclusion and support for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Education and Career

Following her reign as Miss Montana, Wineman attended Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art in 2017. Alongside her public speaking engagements, she transitioned into early childhood education, working as an assistant director and educator at a local child care center. She continues to share her story through guest lectures, podcasts, and media interviews, working to empower families and foster broader social acceptance for neurodivergent individuals.