Marilyn Van Derbur is an accomplished American author, motivational speaker, and beauty pageant titleholder, best known for her reign as Miss America 1958. Her journey began in July 1957 when she was crowned Miss Colorado, which propelled her into the national spotlight. On September 7, 1957, she won the prestigious Miss America title in Atlantic City, showcasing her talent by performing a medley on the organ during the talent competition. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable career dedicated to advocacy and empowerment.

Following her graduation from the University of Colorado with honors in English literature, Van Derbur transitioned to a successful career in television. She served as the television spokeswoman for AT&T’s The Bell Telephone Hour and hosted ten episodes of the iconic show Candid Camera. Additionally, she was the television hostess for the Miss America Pageant for five years, further solidifying her presence in the entertainment industry.

In 1975, Van Derbur founded the Marilyn Van Derbur Motivational Institute, where she produced a series of motivational films aimed at inspiring individuals in business settings. Her commitment to public speaking has allowed her to reach countless audiences, sharing her powerful message of resilience and healing.

Van Derbur’s personal story of overcoming childhood trauma has been a catalyst for her advocacy work. After revealing her experience as a survivor of incestuous abuse, she dedicated her life to helping others heal from similar experiences. Her efforts have led to the establishment of the Survivors United Network and significant contributions to adult incest survivor programs, making her a beacon of hope for many.