Miss America 1988, Miss Michigan, Kaye Lani Rae Rafko
Home State: Michigan
Age: 25
Education: Registered nurse
Talent: Polynesian dance
Career Ambition: To continue nursing career specializing in hospice
Preliminary Awards: Won the swimsuit competition
Kaye Lani Rae Rafko Notable Moments:
Rafko, a hospice nurse who had worked with the terminally ill and advocated
for hospice during her year, is credited with inspiring the development of an
official "platform" for Miss Americas to advocate for important social issues.
Rafko's traveling companions pronounced her one of the most genuinely nice
titleholders ever, claiming they had never once seen her in a bad mood during
her entire year as Miss America.
In an article, ‘I
just wanted to be me,' in Rafko's hometown newspaper, she reflected on
how her life had included both triumph and tragedy since her crowning as Miss
America 1988.
Kaye Lani appears briefly in the Michael Moore documentary "Roger &
Me" during an appearance in Michigan during her reign.
Kaye Lani Rae Rafko, Miss
Michigan, was crowned Miss America 1988.
Kaye Lani Rae Rafko takes her final walk as Miss America 1988.
Miss America 1988, Kaye Lani Rae Rafko, appears in Miami, and
gives up her crown.
Miss Michigan, Kaye Lani Rae Rafko, of Monroe, Michigan, is
crowned Miss America 1988.
Kaye Lani Rae Rafko performs in the talent competition of the 1988 Miss America
Pageant.
Miss America Pageant 1988 Evening Gown. Kaye Lani Raye Rafko of Michigan won
that year
1989 1988 Miss America Kaye Lani Ran Rafko was featured in a commercial for
hospice.
Miss America 1988, Miss Michigan, Kaye Lani Rae Rafko
