Emme (model) facts for kids

Melissa Owens Miller, born on June 30, 1963, is famously known as Emme. She is an American plus-size model, a social reformer, and a strong supporter of positive body image. Emme became known worldwide as the first full-figured model chosen for People magazine's "50 Most Beautiful People" list. She made the list in 1994 and again in 1999. In the 1990s, Emme was widely seen as the top model in her field and also earned the most money.

Growing Up and School

Emme, whose birth name is Melissa Miller, was born in New York City. She spent part of her childhood growing up in Saudi Arabia. Later, as a teenager, she came back to the United States. She attended Kent School in Connecticut.

Emme was very athletic. Syracuse University gave her a full scholarship for sports. She joined the crew team there. She is also part of the Syracuse University Orange Plus Hall of Fame. She was honored for her big contributions to women's sports and to rowing. Emme was even invited to try out for the U.S. Olympic Team. She also tried out for several U.S. National Teams.

After finishing college in 1985, Emme worked for two years in Flagstaff, Arizona. She was a reporter and morning news anchor for a TV station called KNAZ-TV.

Emme's Career Journey

In 1998, Emme made history. She became the first plus-size model to be a spokesperson for Revlon, a famous beauty company. Emme also had her own line of sportswear for women. The clothes came in sizes 2–26. Her "me BY EMME" line was sold on QVC. She also had the "Emme Collection" sportswear line. This line was made by Kellwood and sold in department stores.

There is even a special 16-inch collectible doll made to look like Emme. Money from selling these dolls helps organizations that work on body image and self-esteem.

Emme's Family Life

Emme has a sister named Melanie, who is also a model. Emme married Phillip Aronson in 1989. They moved to New Jersey. In 2001, Emme's daughter, Toby, was born. Emme and her husband separated in 2007. Their divorce was finalized in 2008. Emme's daughter, Toby Cole, has recently appeared in Teen Vogue magazine. She is also signed with IMG Models.

Overcoming Challenges

In May 2007, Emme was diagnosed with Stage 2a Hodgkin's lymphoma. This is a type of cancer that can often be cured with treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. She had surgery. In November 2007, doctors announced that she was "cancer-free." This was great news!

Awards and Recognition

Emme has received many awards for her work and achievements. Here are some of them: