The title of Miss USA 2024 has been awarded!
Alma Cooper, representing Miss Michigan, who serves as an active-duty officer in the U.S. Army and is a data science student at Stanford University, has claimed the crown.
In a backstage interview with Fox News Digital, Cooper expressed that the victory felt “surreal,” stating, “I vividly remember being a child and seeing that moment replayed every year for one fortunate woman. To be in that position was already a dream realized. Winning the title? I can hardly fathom it.”
Reflecting during the question segment, Cooper shared, “I merely focused on my family and the cherished values I was brought up with. The journey to this moment has been long, and I am incredibly thankful. Words can’t capture my appreciation for this experience, the people who have supported me during tough times, and to stand as a part of this fantastic cohort of women—it’s simply extraordinary.”
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Alma Cooper, Miss Michigan USA, celebrates her victory as Miss USA 2024 during the 73rd annual Miss USA Pageant at the Peacock Theater on August 4, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. (Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
Cooper’s triumph was attributed not only to her stunning presence but also her impressive response to the question, “How can we bridge the gap between different cultures and promote understanding and respect?”
“As the daughter of a migrant worker, an empowered Afro-Latina woman, and an officer in the United States Army, my life personifies the American Dream. My experiences and my mother’s teachings have shown me that circumstances do not dictate destiny; excellence leads to success. This fuels my motto: success is within reach, and by pursuing your aspirations, you can dismantle barriers and pave your path forward,” Cooper conveyed to the audience and judges.
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Before the event, co-host Garcelle Beauvais told Fox News Digital, “I am thrilled to be here for Miss USA 2024. It’s about these incredible women. They are dynamic, intelligent, and undeniably beautiful, yet they bring more to the table. Many are expressing their future aspirations and the legacy they wish to create, and I’m here to cheer them on. We’re set for a great evening, though expect a touch of drama and excitement!”
Lu Parker, Miss USA 1994 and journalist, served as a judge and shared her criteria for selecting the winner.
“I merely focused on my family and the cherished values I was brought up with.”
“I’m searching for someone ready to compete at a global level alongside women worldwide,” Parker noted. “Beauty is evident; however, I’m also drawn to confidence and that unique sparkle. Every final night, it seems there are a select few who shine fiercely, and that’s usually the winner.”
Cooper’s crowning follows a brief reign by Savannah Gankiewicz as Miss USA 2023.
Alma Cooper, Miss Michigan USA, is crowned Miss USA 2024 by Savannah Gankiewicz, Miss USA 2023, on the stage of the 73rd annual Miss USA Pageant, held at the Peacock Theater on August 4, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. (Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
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Gankiewicz assumed the title in May after Noelia Voigt, the original Miss USA 2023, resigned. UmaSofia Srivastava, her counterpart in the teen competition, also stepped down.
Srivastava directly addressed her reasons for resigning, stating on Instagram, “After careful consideration, I’ve made the choice to resign as my personal values no longer align with the organization’s direction.”
Voigt initially cited mental health concerns as the reason for her resignation in a comprehensive statement on Instagram in May.
Her reasoning was further detailed in a letter acquired by ABC News and other outlets, where she accused the organization of maintaining a toxic workplace environment and criticized Laylah Rose, the President and CEO of the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA organizations.
Alma Cooper, Miss Michigan USA and Miss USA 2024, alongside Laylah Rose, President of Miss USA, at the 73rd annual Miss USA Pageant at the Peacock Theater on August 4, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. (Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
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In reaction to Voigt’s resignation, Rose issued a statement strongly denying her allegations.
On the red carpet prior to the contest, Rose told Fox News Digital, “We prioritize the safety of our delegates across the nation. All directors ensure the well-being of their contestants, and we will persist in doing so. It’s essential for the role model they aspire to be. Selecting the right role model is paramount for us.”
Rose emphasized, “Mental health is a crucial part of our lives, affecting every aspect. We all face challenges in careers, education, relationships, and family. Learning from those obstacles strengthens us for future challenges, which are always present. The platforms these women establish, along with the resources available, are invaluable on their respective journeys, especially in their passion projects.”
Morgan Romano, Miss USA 2022, serving as a correspondent during the event, acknowledged the pressure involved in the role, despite her own positive experiences.
Morgan Romano, Garcelle Beauvais, Alma Cooper, Miss Michigan USA-winner of Miss USA 2024, Keltie Knight, and Patrick Starrr at the 73rd annual Miss USA Pageant at Peacock Theater on August 4, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. (Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
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“Being Miss USA presents significant mental challenges,” Romano remarked to Fox News Digital. “I had a remarkable year but thriving in the public eye poses distinct mental health challenges. Social media scrutiny can be relentless. Hence, I’m genuinely proud of my fellow Miss USA sisters for setting firm boundaries and prioritizing their mental well-being.”
She added, “Certainly, public feedback can be harsh, yet I’ve learned to view it as a reflection of the individuals providing it rather than my worth. I take pride in who I am, and I refuse to let negative comments dictate my self-worth.”
Miss Teen USA 2024, Addie Carver, who was crowned the previous week, also had a positive experience.
“Everyone has been exceptionally kind to me, and I’m optimistic about being well-supported this year. This role is significant, not only for me but also for the young girls who look up to me. I aim to use this platform to make a difference and inspire others to engage in this program.”
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Beauvais also provided counsel to contestants regarding life in the limelight.
“We inhabit a world where individuals can freely voice their opinions about you, yet it’s crucial to disregard the external noise,” the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star advised. “Stay grounded in your identity, as criticism is sometimes just that. Remember your essence and consistently present your best self.”
