A note of love and gratitude

To Our Miss Gay America Family,

After much thought, reflection, and heartfelt conversations, Rob and I have made the decision to pass on the reins of the Miss Gay America pageant.

We will continue to fulfill our duties through the end of the current reign and proudly crown the next Miss Gay America and Miss Gay America Femme in January 2026. That event will mark a beautiful and meaningful conclusion to this incredible chapter of our lives.

Beginning in January 2026, we will co-own the pageant for one year alongside Monica Mitchells (Rich Billings).  During that year, their board will be put into place and begin shaping the future of the pageant. Full ownership will officially transfer to them on January 1, 2027.

Since the beginning of ownership of the pageant, we knew, when the time came, this system would require an individual that shared our same values, that would be at the helm of this organization, yet understand the system is bigger than any one individual, and would lead with a selfless heart.  We wanted someone with the same ability to continue the Miss Gay America organization on the wonderful path and trajectory that we spent the last decade of our lives providing for it.  We found all of this in Monica.

Rob and I will remain on the board permanently and continue to be a part of the Miss Gay America family. We are not stepping away entirely, just stepping into a new role, one that allows us to remain connected while also making more time for ourselves and our family.

With both of our daughters now in college, one in professional school, we feel it’s important to be present and supportive as they begin their own journeys. This decision comes from a place of love, love for our family and love for this system.  The system, which it has always been about, requires more attention than we will be able to fully provide.

The past ten years have been nothing short of amazing. We’ve had the honor of working with incredibly talented individuals, watching performers shine on stage, change the course of many lives, and build lifelong friendships across the country. We’re deeply proud of the growth, the evolution, and the legacy of Miss Gay America under our care.

We are confident that the future is bright. Rich (Monica) will  bring with a fresh passion, vision, and dedication, and we know the pageant will continue to grow and thrive with their leadership.

Thank you for your trust, your support, your artistry, and your love. This community means everything to us. We look forward to celebrating this final year as your owners, and we cannot wait to witness what the future holds for Miss Gay America.

With gratitude and love,

Michael Dutzer & Rob Mansman

Owners, Miss Gay America