Russellville’s Goggans crowned Miss Northwest Shoals
Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) Freshman student, Ella Goggans, of Russellville, Ala., was crowned 2026 Miss Northwest Shoals on Saturday evening (2/21) in the Lou B. Bevill Center on the NWSCC Phil Campbell campus.
“Becoming Miss Northwest Shoals is a dream come true,” said Goggans. “I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to represent my school and community.”
Goggans has a passion for advocating for Athlete’s Mental Health. Last fall, she started her community service initiative, Beyond the Uniform. Beyond the Uniform is designed to help create a world where athletes feel valued for who they are and not by their performance.
“I have seen firsthand the effect one bad performance can have on someone’s emotional health and personal outlook on their self-worth,” said Goggans. “As Miss Northwest Shoals, I plan to raise awareness of the importance of athlete mental health. I hope to host workshops to help educate athletes and coaches on the importance of words and empathy.”
By winning the title of Miss Northwest Shoals, Goggans is poised to represent her college and community at the upcoming Miss Alabama 2026 competition on June 1-6, 2026, at the Wright Center at Samford University. She plans to get her associate in science degree at NWSCC, then obtain her physical therapy assistant certification, as she trains and mentors young dancers.
Reflecting on Goggans’ notable achievement, Miss Northwest Shoals Program Director Savannah Liles expressed, “This moment represents so much more than a title — it reflects the passion, purpose, and positive influence that will reach countless lives in the year ahead.” said Liles. “We are incredibly proud of every woman who stepped onto that stage with courage, grace, and determination. Each of them embodies excellence, and we are honored to have them as part of our Patriot family.”
Seven women competed for the title of Miss Northwest Shoals, showcasing their talents through five stages of competition, including private interview, on-stage conversation, health and fitness, talent, and evening gown. Alongside Goggans, other winners were recognized:
• Caroline Blackmon, of Muscle Shoals, second alternate
• Aidyn Kate Marshall, of Russellville, first alternate
• Ella Goggans, of Russellville, talent competition award
• Alexis Stewart, of Phil Campbell, most inspirational award
• Hannah Corum, of Florence, outstanding community service award
• Olivia Schurfeld, of Florence, leadership award
• Sara Beth Davis, of Muscle Shoals, bookstore scholarship for exceptional courage in competition
In addition to the prestige of the title, Goggans receives a bundle of prizes, including a One-Year Tuition Scholarship, Official Custom Jewelry by Creative Jewelers, a year of facial spa treatments from NWSCC Salon & Spa, wardrobe discounts from Cherry Tree Lane, a Bookstore Scholarship, an Official Portrait by Butler Studio Photography, and alterations for the Miss Alabama competition by Savannah Liles. She also receives the Miss America Local Crown, Miss America Crown Pin, Tickets to Miss Alabama Teen Finals Competition in Birmingham on March 8, 2026, and other gifts from partners including Hangout Nutrition, Maggie J’s Boutique, and Gigi’s Boutique, and the Board of Directors.