WHO WE ARE
ABOUT US
At Miss Long Island Pageants, we are dedicated to empowering women and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Our mission goes beyond the pageant stage; we strive to foster confidence, leadership, and community engagement in every contestant. Since our inception in [year], we have provided a platform for young women to showcase their talents, intelligence, and commitment to service.
Our organization emphasizes mentorship, personal development, and advocacy, encouraging our queens and contestants to make a positive impact in their communities. Through various community service initiatives and leadership opportunities, we aim to equip our participants with the skills and confidence needed to excel in all areas of life.
We believe in the power of empowering women to create change and inspire others. Join us on this journey of growth, empowerment, and leadership as we continue to uplift and support the women of Long Island and beyond.
Leanne Pinard Baum
Owner, Executive Director
Leanne Pinard Baum began her pageant career at the age of 12 and has been part of the pageant world ever since. Leanne won the title of Miss Long Island Teen in 2010, and as a former title holder has had the opportunity to see the impact first hand of the Long Island Pageant System, not only for herself, but for other young women as well. Holding this prestigious title has shaped her into the woman she is today and created the opportunity for Leanne to raise awareness for her platform of Food and Latex Allergies.
Leanne has brought awareness to food and latex allergies not only to the Long Island Community but across the country. She has had the pleasure of speaking to high school students on the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions and the damaging effects of bullying. Leanne has also been invited to speak to the board of education at school districts regarding school policies and how some of these policies can be exclusive and detrimental to a child’s personal development, as well as causing anxiety disorders. Leanne is a plus size model who had the privilege of being in designer Mac Duggal’s 2018 catalog, national commercials and walked in NYFW multiple times.
Leanne is thrilled to be the executive director of this incredible pageant. Having watched the Long Island Pageant System change the lives of women across Long Island, she is excited to be able to mentor and change the lives of many more as the legacy of this system continues. “Knowing I have the opportunity to shape the lives of others the same way Miss Long Island Pageant Founder, Lori Thomas, has mentored me fills me with enormous pride. The Miss Long Island Pageant has always been so special to me and I am excited to create opportunities for future title holders and embark on this new journey. I have always been dedicated to the Miss Long Island Pageant, and now I am able to bring that dedication to being a director, a business owner and a mentor.”
Leanne has earned her Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Binghamton University, Masters in Public Administration with a concentration in non-profit management and Post-Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship from Seton Hall University. Leanne is also currently pursuing her Masters and EdS in Professional Counseling to continue to help others. She received the Huntington Chamber of Commerce prestigious Long Island’s Young Professional Award, 30 under 30, Long Island Center for Business and Professional Women’s Achiever Award alongside Susan Lucci and Melissa Joan Hart and Equity First Foundations, Angel Awards. Leanne has also received Certificates of Merit from New York State Assembly as well as Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislator, DuWayne Gregory. Leanne is employed in non-profit and higher education fundraising and plans on using her skills and experiences to continue and uphold the legacy of the Long Island Pageant System.
Leanne and her husband John were married in 2017 and welcomed their daughter Giannina to their family in 2021 and their son, Vincenzo in 2023.
Lori Donaudy
Founder