Miss Murray 2026 Sarah Christenson describes a childhood deeply rooted in the community that raised her. Her parents, David and Katherine Christenson, raised her alongside her three sisters (including Miss Murray 2018 Jessica Christenson); she recalls a close-knit family life that remains central to who she is today. Much of her upbringing was shaped by Murray’s local institutions—from learning to swim at the Murray Rec Center and taking figure skating lessons at the Murray Ice Rink, to participating in the Murray Community Dance program. She also remembers biking to violin lessons near 5600 South and selecting her first lifelong instrument at Day Murray Music, experiences that reflect a strong connection to the city she still calls home.

Q: What inspired you to enter the pageant?

A: During my time at Murray High School, I served on the Student Council. I loved pushing myself out of my comfort zone while running for office and planning events for my peers.

However, after graduating high school and moving into college and my career, I found myself no longer pushing myself in the same way. I became comfortable, settled into a routine and didn’t think twice about it. Running for Miss Murray reignited a spark in me that I didn’t even realize I had lost. I began challenging myself again and putting myself out there.

The initial push to run came from my sister, Jessica Christenson, who was crowned Miss Murray in 2018. During her year, she advocated for suicide prevention and depression awareness. I remember her visiting my junior high and speaking on these important topics.

Watching her inspire and positively impact so many of my peers planted a seed in me—I knew I wanted to do the same one day. I have always looked up to her and the incredible role model she is.

Q: What was it like to be named Miss Murray?

A: Being crowned Miss Murray still doesn’t feel real. At times, it feels like a dream I haven’t yet woken up from. When my name was called, I was in disbelief, but I also felt an overwhelming sense of love and support as I heard my family and friends cheering from the crowd. My mind was racing with excitement, pride in the hard work I had put in, and ideas for everything I hope to accomplish this year. To any young girl in Murray City, I can confidently say that this pageant has changed me for the better. I have learned to be comfortable in my own skin, gained confidence in speaking about myself and answering difficult questions, built unbreakable bonds through sisterhood, and so much more.

Q: What is your platform as Miss Murray?

A: My Community Service Initiative is Oral Hygiene Education. Growing up, I always enjoyed going to the dentist—partly because I inherited my mom’s healthy teeth. I was fortunate to never have a cavity or need braces. Throughout school, I would hear my friends share their negative experiences at the dentist, and I wished they could feel the same comfort and confidence that I did. That desire inspired me to pursue a career as a dental hygienist, where I could help create positive experiences for others.

Q: What inspired your choice of platform? 

A: I began by becoming a certified dental assistant through the JTEC program at SLCC, and I soon started working at a pediatric dental office, where I completely fell in love with the field. There is something incredibly fulfilling about helping a nervous child through their very first visit—using a gentle “princess voice,” fun terminology and encouragement to guide them through their exam, cleaning and X-rays.