MISS CROW RIVER VALLEY
Ariana Velishek
Class of 2026
Class of 2026
Talent: HERStory: Every Breath Counts
Community Service Initiative: Inhale Hope: Advocating for Lung Health Director: Sammi Massie Next Competition Date: TBA 
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Inhale Hope: Advocating for Lung Health
Breathing is something we all share — yet far too many Minnesotans struggle for every breath. As a licensed respiratory therapist, Ariana has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact lung disease can have on people's lives. Lung health isn’t just her career — it’s her passion. Through years of caring for patients with chronic respiratory conditions, Ariana has seen just how delicate our lungs are when not properly protected. This passion inspired her to launch Inhale Hope. Ariana’s vision is simple yet powerful: to empower every Minnesotan to take control of their lung health — preventing avoidable illness, lowering healthcare costs, and ultimately saving lives. Her mission centers on shifting the focus from treatment to prevention, and her three-pronged plan is built on education, advocacy, and community engagement. Through Inhale Hope, Ariana has worked with organizations such as the American Lung Association, HOSA, Best Buddies, and several other Minnesota-based nonprofits to raise awareness around lung health. She volunteers her time to bring real stories and experiences to the public — helping people understand the seriousness of lung disease and inspiring them to act before it’s too late. Since becoming a respiratory therapist, Ariana has remained committed to helping every Minnesotan breathe easier. By combining her clinical experience with her passion for community outreach, she hopes Inhale Hope will address lung health at every level — giving every person the tools and knowledge they need to protect their breath and their future. Get to know Ariana: Ariana Velishek is a licensed Respiratory Therapist and a passionate advocate for patients, community engagement, and wellness. She believes that by taking ownership of our own health, we can empower not only ourselves but also those around us — creating a ripple effect of success and well-being. A proud graduate of Saint Catherine University, Ariana earned her Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care, with a focus on critical care. She currently works at a Level I trauma center in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, where she provides life-saving care to patients in high-acuity settings. Her dedication to helping others extends beyond the hospital walls — Ariana has volunteered on medical mission trips to Peru, delivering compassionate care to underserved communities and striving to ensure that every individual receives the quality healthcare they deserve. Ariana’s approach to care is rooted in empathy, advocacy, and empowerment. Whether at a patient’s bedside or out in the community, her goal is to make sure people leave feeling healthier, informed, and in control of their health journey. Outside of her medical work, Ariana enjoys embracing everything Minnesota has to offer — from relaxing by the lake to spending time with family and friends. She loves traveling, exploring new cultures, and hiking the outdoors, always seeking the next destination on her bucket list. With her sights set on advancing her career, Ariana hopes to return to school to pursue her Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) license. She’s passionate about pushing the boundaries of medicine and using her clinical and advocacy experience to help shape the future of respiratory care. As Miss Crow River Valley, Ariana is honored to serve her community and excited for the year ahead. She invites you to follow along on her journey and join her in advocating for lung health and wellness across Minnesota. Follow her on Instagram: @misscrowrivervalleymn |