Audrey Eckert of Nebraska was crowned Miss USA 2025 at the Grand Resort in Nevada. This marked the start of a new chapter for the famous pageant after months of turmoil and management changes. Eckert, who is 22 years old and a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, beat out 50 other contestants. This included first runner-up Harrington from New Jersey and second runner-up Chanta McIntyre from Oregon. Eckert was crowned by current Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, which was different from the usual way of doing things. This showed that the company was starting over with new leadership.
The pageant this year put an end to 18 months of controversy. This began when Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt quit because of claims of abuse and a toxic environment. Thom Brodeur, an American businessman, is now in charge of the pageant. He became president and CEO under a 10-year contract after buying the rights from the Miss Universe Organization. There have been ownership disputes and lawsuits during the transition. However, the organizers say they are committed to improving the pageant’s reputation in its long history.
A lot of rules changed for the 2025 competition. For example, there were no age limits, so women over 28, married women, and mothers could compete. This led to record-breaking participation. Tet Shockley, who is 44 years old, was the oldest contestant ever and Lesa Brackett, who wore a hijab, was the first. The pageant’s move from TV to only being available online was another big step forward. This showed how media trends are changing. Eckert will be the USA’s representative at the next international Miss pageant in Thailand.
Also, Mail Marsh, a high school student from Missouri who wants to be a geologist, won the Miss Teen USA title. The 2025 Miss USA pageant is more than just a beauty contest. It stands for change, acceptance, and strength for the future.
