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Chinah Helmandollar ~ Miss Virginia 2009
Chinah Helmandollar is a 23 year-old graduate of James Madison University where she earned a degree in Theatre. She was the recipient of the Stratford Players Scholarship for theatre and the David Wilson Scholarship for excellence in theatre. She was a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and she was named to the Dean’s List. A native of Smith Mountain Lake, she has earned several thousand dollars in scholarship dollars through her participation in the Miss America Organization. Upon completion of her year of service, Chinah will pursue a career in acting as well as post graduate studies in stage and screen.
Chinah believes strongly in her message, “Serving Virginians with Disabilities”. She has served in several different capacities and venues, such as aiding students in special education classes by helping them with developmental, motor, and life skills. For three years, she has volunteered at the state rehabilitation facility, Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center, in Staunton, Virginia. She recently completed her second year of service in the AmeriCorps’ “Serving Virginians with Disabilities” program where she has volunteered over 600 hours. She is most proud of fusing her two passions together – theatre and helping people with disabilities – by creating and leading drama workshops at the Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center.
Chinah’s love of theatre and music has lead to impressive accomplishments. She was the lead actor in a touring production of The Fisherman and His Wife that was performed over 30 times in Virginia’s schools. In addition, she directed a one-act play entitled OEDI in the experimental theatre at James Madison University. She also performed in the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and she has been featured on two CDs, singing and playing guitar.
As Miss Virginia, she will travel 20,000 miles across Virginia sharing her message and entertaining. She will visit many schools throughout her tenure encouraging Virginia’s youth to make healthy decisions. Her presentation encompasses leadership, bullying, and the importance of saying “no” to alcohol, tobacco, and substance abuse. In addition, Chinah serves as Virginia’s state ambassador for the Children's Miracle Network throughout her tenure of service. Wendi Gruninger Business Manager (703) 473-1171 |
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