Tanya Templer never backs down from a challenge. She proved that last summer during the Miss Hermantown pageant.

Templer entered the pageant in 2008, when Megan Bakken was selected as Miss Hermantown. Templer decided to give it one last try in 2009.

“My mother encouraged me, and I had a great time as an ambassador,” Templer said. “I guess the second time is the charm.”

Templer made the decision in the final week before the pageant. She has never regretted the decision.

“It really has been an amazing experience,” Templer said. “You get to meet so many people, and I have really gained more confidence in meeting and speaking to people. It also has opened a lot of doors for me that will help me now and in the future.”

Being the 2009 Miss Hermantown has allowed Templer to get out and meet people in a variety of settings. She attended Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce functions and was the guest speaker at Skyline Rotary last month.

One of the best parts of being Miss Hermantown was meeting all the young girls who looked up to her as the pageant winner. She knew that with the crown came the responsiblity of being a good role model. She also used the opportunity to encourage young girls to go after their dreams.

“Talking with the younger kids has been a lot of fun,” Templer said. “They really respect the pageant and see it as a positive thing in the community.”

Templer is the first sister of a former Miss Hermantown pageant winner to have won the title. Her older sister, Breanna, was crowned in 2005. She said her sister gave her great advice on simply having fun with it and enjoying the whole experience.

A freshman at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, Templer said she plans to major in biology and minor in broadcasting. She initally wanted to go into a career in TV broadcasting. However, she changed her mind and is now planning to become a plastic surgeon. She wants to specialize in reconstructive surgery to help those with breast cancer.

Templer said she has nothing but good things to say about the Miss Hermantown Pageant and would encourage young ladies in the community to take part in the event. While there is always pressure to try out for a pageant, Templer said the key is simply to be yourself, relax and have fun.

“This is not just a competition,” Templer added. “It is a learning experience that will help you for the rest of your life.”

Pageant organizer Rhonda Grussendorf-Tomlin plans to once again start the recruitment process for this year’s event, which will once again be held the Friday of Hermantown SummerFest (July 16). Those interested in learning more about the pageant are welcome to contact Grussendorf-Tomlin at 218-390-0804.