Dr. Al Mott, in the State of New Jersey in 1972, started the Senior America Pageant Program. In 1986, the California Chapter was created under the leadership of Elda Barry of Long Beach. She led the chapter until her retirement in 1999. In 2000, Marilyn McCabe Kohler accepted the position of Director of Ms. Senior California. During her leadership California became the largest senior pageant program in the country. Upon Marilyn's retirement in 2012, Pamela Wheeler accepted the role of State Pageant Director. Pamela and the Ms. Senior California, Inc., Board of Directors will continue in the growth of California pageant program. Starting in year 2013, California with have nine Preliminary Pageants and a State Pageant.

Our pageants allow women who have reached the "Age of Elegance" to step into the spotlight of grace and dignity and accept the recognition they so richly deserve. In 2012, over sixty women participated in our Preliminary Pageant. Why are the California Pageants growing so quickly? Because the Ms. Senior America Philosophy is based upon the belief that seniors are the foundation of America and our most valuable treasure. It is upon their knowledge, experience and resources that the younger generation has the opportunity to build a better society.