On November 29th, 16-year old Alyssa Taglia realized the dream of a lifetime when she won the coveted title of Miss Connecticut Teen USA 2010. Alyssa is a resident of Cheshire, CT where she resides with her supportive family and their 2 loving dogs.

Alyssa is a Junior at Cheshire High School and a student at the Educational Center for the Arts where she is studying dance under esteemed teachers - Frederick Earl Mosley & Freddie Moore. She is an accomplished performer with the dream of one day training as a professional dancer at The Ailey School. In addition, Alyssa would like to obtain a Masters Degree in Education with the ultimate goal of contributing to society as a performer, artist and educator.

Alyssa is proud of her extensive list of scholastic honors and leadership roles. In 2007 she won the President’s Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement and received the Excellence in Community Service Youth Award as well as the President’s Volunteer Service Award the past 3 years. She is a member of the CHS Dream Team for Diversity, Students Against Destructive Decisions club and is a peer advocate. Alyssa is a grant recipient of the prestigious YSA Youth Venture Program for young entrepreneurs.

When asked about her true passion, Alyssa will speak proudly about her philanthropic accomplishments. As founder of “Smiles For Seniors”, she dedicates her life to enriching the lives of senior citizens across America. Her long-term vision is to have dedicated volunteer teams stationed throughout the country to carry out the mission of the organization. Alyssa’s dream is that someday this program will be well recognized throughout America making “Smiles for Seniors” a household name!

Alyssa is a key member of the award winning, Rob Merante’s competitive dance company with extensive creative accomplishments that include “Dancer of the Year” 2005-2006, CT Junior Miss Dance Xplosion and numerous platinum/special awards. She is also a member of The Arts & Culture Collaborative and has held several Community Theater roles.

In her spare time, Alyssa is an avid golfer, a volunteer “junkie” and has a passion for purses!

Throughout her year of reign, Alyssa would like to be viewed as a young woman who is a true role model among her peers portraying maturity, confidence and self-respect. In addition, she will act as a good will ambassador promoting the Miss Teen USA Program and all that the experience represents: giving back through community service, healthy living, creative accomplishment, personal achievement and ultimately, success. Alyssa will continue her dedicated efforts with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Special Olympics. Closest to Alyssa’s heart will always be the significant impact she continues to make on the quality of life of senior citizens throughout our country.

Alyssa is very excited to compete for the title of Miss Teen USA 2010!