Jasmin Kotek is a first-generation college graduate and a proud middle school math teacher in her hometown of Faribault, Minnesota, where she teaches, mentors, and leads the next generation both inside and outside the classroom. A lifelong advocate for holistic well-being, she prioritizes both physical and mental health - whether coaching, training in CrossFit, or building her activewear brand, she fully embodies the spirit of #MissAmericaFit.

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Her greatest passion lies in mental health advocacy. Inspired by personal experience, Jasmin is the co-founder of CultureChange, a nonprofit dedicated to changing the culture the culture and shift the stigma surround mental health through education, outreach, and connection focusing on education, legislation, literature and community building. Through this work with CC & her partnership with the United Way of Steele County as part of their Teen Mental Health and Opioids Response Action Team, she has helped expand access to resources across hundreds of universities, school districts, and communities nationwide, while also developing K–12 curriculum, youth programming, and educator tools, also hosting local events and even establishing a local teen center. 

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As a published children’s author and creator of Open Books, Open Minds, Jasmin uses literature to bring social-emotional learning into classrooms and communities, ensuring young people have access to age-appropriate mental wellness tools. She is also actively engaged in community and legislative advocacy, working to increase access to mental health education and support systems for youth.

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As a titleholder in the Miss America Opportunity, Jasmin is committed to advancing a powerful trifecta of health, education, and advocacy - ensuring that every individual has the tools, resources, and support they deserve. Living out the legacy of being the person for others, she once needed herself.