For decades, women in St. Louis ages 60 and above have celebrated the joy of competing in the Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant, a showcase of talent, grace and life’s rich experiences. The pageant, now seeking contestants for its 2025 edition on April 27, honors women who have reached what it calls the “age of elegance.”

“The age of elegance means a lot to me,” said Vicki Fenster, a former first runner-up in the pageant. “It means that as a senior over the age of 60, I can still be the ‘best me I can be.’”

Marcene Tockman, a longtime member of United Hebrew, discovered the pageant through her involvement with the St. Louis Strutters, a charitable tap-dancing group for women over 50. She joined the Strutters in 1996 at age 54.

“One of the gals, Pat Bruder, was asked to be in the Ms. Missouri Senior Pageant,” Tockman recalled. “Well, she won. Every year thereafter, one of the Strutters entered the pageant. In 1999, it was my turn.” That year, Tockman herself claimed the crown.

Fenster and Tockman are part of a legacy of Jewish women who have found friendship and community within the pageant. It’s a tradition that continues to foster connection and pride while showcasing the vibrancy of life and active aging after 60.

Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant

The Missouri Senior Cameo Club, the nonprofit organization behind the Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant, supports women’s personal growth and talent through community service, charitable giving and performances. The pageant includes four categories: a personal interview with judges (30%), poise in an evening gown (20%), a 35-second philosophy of life recitation (20%) and a 2 ½-minute talent presentation (30%).

The winner is crowned queen and represents Missouri in the Ms. Senior America Pageant. For many, the journey—regardless of the outcome—is a rewarding experience that celebrates the beauty of aging with confidence and grace.

 For more information, please contact Susan Pellegrino at [email protected] or 314-640-5789. Or visit them online.