On Thursday night, the 93rd Miss America competition will air and crown a new winner. Passing the title to one of the 51 ladies will be 2019's winner, Nia Franklin, the 26-year-old composer who last took home the title.

However, several changes will be in effect this year that will change the way that "Miss America 2.0" operates, according to USA Today. Previously, organizers of the event stated that they no longer wish to refer to the show as a "pageant." This decision was announced after new leadership was put into place and a new direction was decided upon.

Another noteworthy difference this year is that the location is changing from Atlantic City, New Jersey, where it has typically taken place in recent years, to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Aside from the aforementioned variations to the format, it will also air on a new network, as it is slated to move from ABC back to NBC. Currently, 4.5 million viewers are expected to tune in to see what unfolds. In addition to the traditional broadcast, those who are interested in watching can also do so online through the NBC app.

This will also be the second year in a row that there will not be swimsuit or evening gown components. This is due to the fact that organizers are not putting as much emphasis on the women's outward physical appearances. Instead, they will have time to "discuss their personal achievements, life goals, talents and a planned 'social impact initiative' as the 2020 Miss America."

Regina Hopper, president and CEO of the Miss America Organization, discussed all of these changes in July. "We are looking forward to a fresh take on this historic competition that will showcase the incredible women vying for the job of Miss America 2020," she stated.

Before ending her run as the titleholder, Franklin also reflected on the past year in a new interview with Channel Guide magazine. “My year has meant so much to me," she said, adding, "I was the first Miss America 2.0, so I’ll be able to say that for the rest of my life."

The 93rd Miss America competition will air Thursday night at 7:00 p.m. EST on NBC.

Miss America 2019
51 New ladies will compete for the title of Miss America 2020 at this year’s pageant. Pictured is Miss America 2019 winner Nia Franklin as she receives her crown from Miss America 2018, Cara Mund at Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Sept. 9, 2018. Donald Kravitz/Getty Images
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