Zach Irby WDBJ7 WDBJ7

5:34 p.m. EST, January 11, 2013
ROANOKE, Va.—

She's got beauty, smarts, and she's ready to become the next Miss America.

We're talking about the reigning Miss Virginia, Rosemary Willis.

She will compete for the coveted Miss America crown tomorrow night in Las Vegas. WDBJ7 caught up with Willis earlier in the week, where she shared her favorite part of the competition.

"Talent has always been my favorite part of the competition. It's where I feel most comfortable and I've been performing and singing my entire life. I think that's my opportunity to connect with the audience and share the gift that I've been given," Willis said.

The field of 53 contestants will be cut at the beginning of tomorrow night's competition to just 15 ladies.

The last contestant from Virginia to win the crown was Caressa Cameron in 2009.

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