Nebraska's Audrey Eckert Takes the Crown at Miss USA Amid Turbulent Times

Audrey Eckert Crowned Miss USA 2024

The Miss USA pageant has seen its share of ups and downs, but this year marked a fresh start. Audrey Eckert, a 22-year-old from Nebraska, emerged victorious, beating out 50 other contestants in Reno, Nevada. Her platform focuses on digital safety, and her journey to the crown was nothing short of emotional.

A Memorable Victory

Eckert, a former cheerleader and University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate, fell to her knees in tears when she was crowned. The event was filled with excitement, complete with gold streamers flying everywhere.

A Year of Changes

This year's pageant was different. Instead of last year's winner, the crown was handed to Eckert by Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig. Adding to the surprise, Noelia Voigt, last year's Miss USA who resigned amid controversy, returned as a host for the online broadcast.

A Turbulent Past

The pageant has faced significant challenges recently. Last May, Voigt and Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava resigned, citing mental health concerns. Voigt later alleged a toxic environment and harassment, while the pageant's then-president, Laylah Rose, denied the claims.

Leadership Shake-Up

Businessman Thom Brodeur acquired the rights to Miss USA and Miss Teen USA, becoming the new president and CEO. He promised to remove restrictions that silenced former winners and give them a voice.

Breaking Barriers

This year's contest introduced several changes, including lifting age, marital status, and parental status restrictions. This allowed for more diverse contestants, such as 44-year-old Miss Delaware, Tetra Shockley, the oldest competitor ever, and Miss New Hampshire, MonaLesa Brackett, the first to wear a hijab.

A New Era of Competition

The pageant was streamed online this year, marking a shift from traditional television broadcasts. Eckert will now compete at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand next month. The USA has the most Miss Universe titles, with nine wins in its history.

Miss Teen USA 2024

On Thursday night, high school student Mailyn Marsh from Missouri was crowned Miss Teen USA 2024. An aspiring dermatologist, Marsh won the companion title for contestants aged 14 to 19.