Alma Cooper, Miss Michigan, Crowned Miss USA 2024
In a stunning turn of events, Alma Cooper, an active-duty officer in the United States Army and a data scientist studying at Stanford University, was crowned Miss USA 2024. The 73rd annual Miss USA Pageant held in Los Angeles, California, saw Cooper take home the coveted title, beating out fierce competition from other talented contestants.
Cooper’s win was not just about her physical beauty, but also her ability to excel in answering the thought-provoking question posed to all contestants: “How can we bridge the gap between different cultures and foster understanding and respect?” Her heartfelt response, drawing from her personal experiences as the daughter of a migrant worker and a proud Afro-Latina woman, resonated with the audience and judges alike.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Cooper expressed her disbelief at winning, calling the moment “surreal.” She reflected on her journey to the crown, crediting her family and the values instilled in her upbringing for shaping her into the woman she is today.
The crowning of Cooper comes after the relatively short tenure of Savannah Gankiewicz as Miss USA 2023, who took over the title after the original winner, Noelia Voigt, resigned. The pageant world has seen its share of controversies, with resignations from other titleholders like UmaSofia Srivastava, citing personal values and mental health concerns.
Despite the challenges faced by beauty pageant contestants, Miss USA CEO Laylah Rose emphasized the organization’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its delegates. Former titleholders like Morgan Romano and Addie Carver also spoke out about the importance of prioritizing mental health in the demanding role of Miss USA.
As Alma Cooper embarks on her reign as Miss USA 2024, she stands as a symbol of resilience, diversity, and empowerment. Her win not only celebrates her individual achievements but also serves as an inspiration for young girls looking up to her as a role model.
