An EHT karate instructor, who also works at Prep’s Pizza
It was a spectacular week of pageantry in Ocean City as Miss New Jersey made its return to the Music Pier for the first time since 2018. The island community welcomed more than a dozen local titleholders from across the state for a full week of pageant activities. Parents and supporters filled the auditorium on Saturday night for the final evening of competition.
Kylie Gene Wright of Egg Harbor Township was awarded the title of Miss New Jersey. Wright, who served as Miss Cumberland County, has experience in karate and wrestling. A standout athlete at Egg Harbor Township High School, she placed sixth overall in the New Jersey State Wrestling Championship in 2024 and competed on the wrestling team at Ursinus College. Today, she is pursuing a business degree from Atlantic Cape Community College and teaches karate in her hometown.
Wright also serves as East Coast Chapter President of T.A.K.E. Defense, a nationwide initiative that provides vital self-defense skills for women. As part of her Community Service Initiative, she has helped raise thousands of dollars through various demonstrations and seminars. Wright aims to use her platform as Miss New Jersey to empower women with hands-on techniques to lead with confidence.
In her first official statement as Miss New Jersey, Wright thanked her family, friends, coaches, and mentors for providing valuable life lessons and words of encouragement. “As a lifelong martial artist, karate has shaped who I am today. It has taught me discipline, resilience, and confidence to keep getting back up when life knocks me down.
“The lessons I learned on the mat have prepared me for this opportunity, and I am proud to carry these values with me as Miss New Jersey.”
Wright is the fourth EHT resident to be crowned Miss New Jersey. The township was last represented by Kaitlyn Schoeffel in 2017. As Miss New Jersey, Wright will soon take her talents to the national stage as part of Miss America, which will be held later this year in West Palm Beach, Fla. “I’m so excited, honored, and proud to be representing Miss New Jersey on the Miss America stage and throughout this upcoming year,” Wright said.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
