Meet the Contentants

Sophie Burzynski
Miss Alabama USA

Sophie Burzynski, is a pre-dental student at Auburn University, where she is double majoring in Nutrition Science and Business Management. At Auburn, she serves as a War Eagle Girl, an official hostess, which serves in unity with the Office of the President in conjunction with Athletics and the Alumni Association.

A successful entrepreneur, she combined her love for people and her passion of serving and is the CEO of Videos By Sophie B., a wedding videography business. She filmed her first wedding at age 15 and filmed 18 weddings last summer.

Throughout her life, she is an agent of transformative impact in empowering others to write and tell their own stories. She hopes to inspire the next generation to be unapologetic in their true identity and to courageously influence their world for good. She teaches others how to be the entrepreneur of their life and shine from the inside out.

Candace Kanavel
Miss Arizona USA

Candace Kanavel is a dedicated police officer and the driving force behind ‘Yes She CAN,’ her initiative that focuses on bolstering confidence and capability among women. With a firm belief in the importance of self-defense and situational awareness, Candace has channeled her expertise as a law enforcement professional to create a platform that equips women with essential skills.

At 27 years old, Candace is a proud Japanese-American who graduated from Arizona State University, where she honed her skills and passion for community engagement and personal development. Her diverse background and education have propelled her towards becoming an advocate for change.

Candace’s commitment to service shines through her work with ‘Yes She CAN’ and other organizations that help victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. Her dedication extends beyond her role in law enforcement as she actively contributes to building a society where women feel empowered, secure, and capable.

Tianna Clark
Miss California USA

A true California girl, 28 year old Tianna Clark was born and raised in the Golden State. She graduated from Cal State San Bernardino in 2018 with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a minor in Psychology. Currently, she is a Sergeant in the Army National Guard serving her community as a Public Relations and Marketing Manager.

When Tianna was in middle school her beloved grandmother Marie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Knowing first hand the devastation of the disease, Tianna hopes to provide support and encouragement for families in need. She is also passionate about encouraging and empowering women and started her own blog called “In Bloom Woman”.

A model and actress formerly signed with Next and Ford Models, Tianna also has an artistic eye and loves to sketch creative fashion designs. In her free time you can find her roller skating with her skate crew “Roll Models”.

Karla Aponte Roque
Miss Connecticut USA

Karla Aponte Roque was born in Caguas, Puerto Rico and is fluent in English, Spanish, and French. She graduated from Albertus Magnus College with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology & Chemistry, while minoring in Psychology & Pre-Pharmacy in 2019. In 2022, she graduated from Fairfield University’s accelerated nursing program earning her a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Management. Karla is a registered nurse on a Medical-Telemetry unit at Yale New Haven Hospital. She is an advocate for health in all of its dimensions, working closely with the American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association, and American Cancer Society among several other organizations.  Karla has numerous awards for her academic and philanthropic work including Walsh Family Memorial Award (for highest science GPA), Gamma Kappa Pi Honor Society, A.M.C Honor’s Award, Veteran’s Affairs VALOR Award, and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society.

A model and actress formerly signed with Next and Ford Models, Tianna also has an artistic eye and loves to sketch creative fashion designs. In her free time you can find her roller skating with her skate crew “Roll Models”.

Cassie Baloue
Miss District of Columbia USA

Cassie Baloue advocates for cancer awareness as a Legislative Ambassador with the American Cancer Society and volunteers with organizations that educate communities on the early signs of cancer with the goal of enabling people to seek treatment at earlier stages. She is the founder of Cancer Collections, a panelist series that promotes cancer awareness.

Cassie works as a digital press secretary in the U.S. House of Representatives and proudly advocated for the “Find It Early Act”, which would ensure all health insurance plans cover screening and diagnostic breast imaging for women at a higher risk for breast cancer without incurring out-of-pocket costs. She desires to obtain a Master’s degree in Public Policy and become a political strategist who advocates for social issues.

Cassie received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California Merced and is a signed model with Kingsley Model Management.

Rachel Russaw
Miss Georgia USA

Rachel Russaw is a 25-year-old entrepreneur, who has an impressive track record of accomplishments. A graduate of The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in Consumer Sciences, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey at fifteen, becoming a full-time content creator and later fulfilling her dream of launching Shop 8.14, her online clothing boutique.

Passionate about empowering young women, Rachel initiated #InfluenceHerIRL, promoting self-confidence, mental health awareness, and entrepreneurship. She combines that with her passion of serving as the Director of Community Outreach for Novaturient, a non-profit organization that makes a difference by helping to provide free mental health services to children and families in Atlanta.

Honored to represent Georgia, Rachel looks forward to influencing the next generation to pursue their dreams during her reign as Miss Georgia USA. Her dedication to her community and empowering others defines her vision for the year ahead.

Hannah Mezner
Miss Idaho USA

Hannah, 28, is the published author of her nonfiction book “Glass Ceiling Epiphanies”, which shares real stories from women in business to close the corporate gender leadership gap, and is pursuing her MBA at The Wharton School to develop skills needed to reach the C-suite. This aspiring beauty start-up founder created her nonprofit, Project IdaHOPE, to share suicide prevention education and resources, based on her experience volunteering for a crisis hotline. Hannah has presented to several Idaho schools about mental health, collaborated with The Speedy Foundation and Governor Little on proper suicide reporting, and has been the keynote speaker at AFSP’s Out of the Darkness Walk. Hannah is a world traveler having visited five continents this year alone and studied abroad in Singapore, Spain, and India. A National Outdoor Leadership School graduate, Pilates instructor, and genuine Idahoan, Hannah enjoys skiing in Sun Valley and rafting the Salmon River with family.

Haley Jordan
Miss Indiana USA

Miss Indiana USA 2023 Haley Jordan is a proud Native American sports broadcaster and high school broadcasting teacher. She often goes from teaching her classes directly to the ballpark to report on the Indianapolis Indians baseball team or report on set with the Indy Eleven soccer team, where she’s the host of its new TV show on Indianapolis Channel 6.

Haley represents Indiana in honor of her mother Susan, who passed away from brain cancer in December 2020. Haley’s growing grief support platform is helping Hoosiers and beyond learn how to grieve healthily and at their own pace in a world where loss has been so prevalent the past few years.

Whether speaking to a group of veterans led by her father or getting to know new mini-bffs who want to be Miss USA someday, Haley is a hands-on titleholder eager to spread her #joy to the whole USA!

Haley Berger
Miss Kansas USA

Born in Bangkok, Thailand, Haley Berger embarked on a remarkable journey across Honolulu, Tampa, Wichita, and Cleveland, experiencing 18 homes within her first several years of life. Currently rooted in Lawrence, Kansas, Haley is committed to her academics and community. Considered a “super senior,” she is simultaneously pursing her Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Business Administration from the University of Kansas.

Outside of her studies, she is the founding executive member for the S.A.E.B and actively runs two businesses. Eventually, she hopes to pursue federal pharmaceutical law.

Haley dedicates her time to various campus organizations, including her roles as a pharmacy school ambassador, a member of Kappa Psi, and networking with prospective students at on-campus events.

She enjoys mentoring young women and encouraging them to become strong leaders. As Haley continues to break the glass ceiling, she’s hoping many others follow in her footsteps.

Sylvia Masters
Miss Louisiana USA

Sylvia Masters, 28, is a native of Houma, graduate of Nicholls State University, and a News Anchor at KLFY News 10 in Lafayette, Louisiana. Sylvia’s hobbies include singing the National Anthem at events, playing the piano, and joyriding with her dogs, Saylor and Spanky.

Sylvia is the oldest of five children, all raised on the bayous of Southeast Louisiana. She has always dreamed of one day representing the state she loves on the Miss USA stage.

Sylvia is passionate about bringing more awareness to the causes most dear to her heart, including advocating for early detection and screenings for cancer in memory of her father. She also enjoys bringing joy to childhood cancer patients and their families through hospital visits and programs through Child Life Centers. Sylvia opens her home fostering puppies throughout the year and advocates for adoption of animals hoping to decrease the overcrowding in animal shelters.

Savena Mushinge
Miss Maryland USA

Savena Mushinge was crowned Miss Maryland USA among over 100 contestants. She is the first Zambian American to compete locally & nationally for the Miss USA title.

Being the US Zambia Tourism Ambassador she facilitates tourism and the overall development of the country unifying the relationship between the United States and Zambia.

Savena is a licensed Real Estate Broker and Transaction Manager who has served Fortune 500 companies. She is the co-founder of the non-profit organization, Daughters’ Pride Foundation serving families impacted by poverty. She is also an Ambassador for Icing Smiles helping create memories for children facing critical illnesses through delivering celebration cakes.

Savena’s dedication to philanthropic work is a direct result of being raised in a 3rd world country. She doesn’t take any of her opportunities for granted and wants to encourage others to reach their full potential by using the abundant resources available in the United States.

Alexis Fagan
Miss Michigan USA

Alexis is a 23 year old Detroit native and graduate of the University of Alabama where she obtained her degree in Psychology and minor in Global and Cultural Perspectives. She currently works as a Behavioral Therapist helping children with autism and plans to apply to Med School after her reign.

Alexis lost her father to gun violence at age 8 and is now passionate about sharing her story with at-risk kids in Michigan, encouraging them to overcome their adversities. She also works with state government officials and organizations who focus on supporting families affected by gun violence.

An active Best Buddies volunteer since age 14, she currently serves on the Advisory Board for Best Buddies Michigan working with local, state and national staff.

In her free time, Alexis loves reading, watching 90’s movies and traveling, and was even able to study abroad in Greece exploring her Greek background!

Sydney Russell
Miss Mississippi USA

Sydney Russell is a 24-year-old graduate student finalizing her Doctorate of Pharmacy degree from the University Of Mississippi Medical Center. She believes “Health is Wealth”, so she launched a health literacy platform to bridge the gap between medical jargon and everyday language making the world of healthcare less intimidating and more accessible!

Sydney’s work in pharmacy revealed to her how many ailments are preventable through nutrition and lifestyle. In order to reach her goal of becoming the “Pharmacist you don’t need to see”, Sydney launched her own YouTube channel to educate people on holistic strategies that can go hand-in-hand with healthcare.

Faith, family, and hard work are the pillars of Sydney’s life, and she is determined to make a positive impact in the world as both a medical professional and the next Miss USA!

Mady Rigg
Miss Montana USA

Mady Rigg is passionate about leadership, empowerment, and community. After studying communication and political science at Eastern Washington University, she returned to Montana to begin her journey of public service. Having worked as a leadership consultant and a political fundraiser, she is now the Marketing Manager at the Glacier Institute. Mady is known for her ability to work effectively with people and connect them to issues, opportunities, and each other. Her dedication to the welfare of her community is all encompassing. Mady serves on the board of the Flathead Area Young Professionals and is a Kalispell Chamber Ambassador, experiences that help feed her future political career aspirations. She also continues to serve as an advisor for her sorority, Gamma Phi Beta, where she grows leadership and confidence in young women. She enjoys the outdoors and can be found hiking in Glacier National Park and boating on Flathead Lake.

Josie Nicole 
Miss Nevada USA

Josie Nicole Stephens, 28, was originally born in Lafayette Louisiana, now residing in Fallon Nevada. She was born a third-generation oil field worker, but she is the only female and one of only 3% of women in her field! As a chemical account manager on a Shell offshore oil & gas platform she works closely with the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure clean production. Her mission is to encourage women to pursue STEM and male dominated fields. Josie has a bachelor’s in chemical engineering and minors in mathematics, chemistry, and bio-processing engineering. When she’s not in the Gulf of Mexico she is advocating for the destigmatization of mental health, having a #5daystoSave initiative to educate our youth and provide them with the resources to nurture their mental health. Josie considers herself a bookworm and has a home library with over 300 books!

Derby Chukwudi
Miss New Jersey USA

Derby Chukwudi is a Nigerian-American woman in Finance who works with the Global Investment Strategy Team at JPMorgan Private Bank in New York City.

Born in Dallas, Texas, raised in Lagos, Nigeria Derby believes in living a limitless life, filled with purpose to elevate others; the catalyst for her leaving home at age 16 to pursue her college education. Derby was named a 2023 finalist for the She Inspires Rising Star Awards for her exceptional leadership, responsibility, and impact in her field.

Derby’s mission is for schools in all 50 states of the United States to require financial education and she partners with national organizations as an advocate.

Her approach to life is one full of gratitude, hard work, and resilience. Derby is honored to compete in Miss USA 2023 and hopes to inspire others to recognize that their differences are their greatest asset, and everyone should have a chance to fulfill their dreams.

Rachelle di Stasio
Miss New York USA

Born in Palo Alto, CA and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Rachelle’s story began when she enrolled in creative dance classes with Nashville Ballet at the age of eight and making her professional debut performing the lead role of Clara in Nashville Ballet’s Nutcracker at the age of thirteen. This firmly solidified how strong her passion was for dance and performance on the stage. At the age of fourteen, Rachelle possessed such evident talent that she was offered a paid traineeship with Nashville Ballet under a six-year contract.

Rachelle had a different dream in mind though, turning down the offer in favor of pursuing training in New York and – all going well – finding a place in one of her favorite major ballet companies. The leap of faith paid off and Rachelle was accepted into all five of the prestigious schools she auditioned for, which meant uprooting her and her mother’s lives in Nashville and making the 800-mile move to New York City.

Within two years, and before she even graduated high school, Rachelle was accepted to American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School on full scholarship, followed by ABT’s Studio Company, and eventually performing with ABT professionally.

While still dancing, Rachelle made her international television debut as the principle ‘Hero Ballerina’ in a Samsung commercial directed by Mark Romanek. She was also featured in Paris Vogue with Anja Rubik and photographed by Mario Sorrenti. Other highlights for Rachelle, during her dance career, include Under Armor campaigns, SavageX Fenty: Back to School shoot and gracing the cover of major dance magazines.

Rachelle’s second television appearance was as a featured model in Randy Fenoli’s Say Yes To The Dress on the TLC Network.

What makes all of Rachelle’s accomplishments even more impressive is that since the age of four years old she was fighting a secret battle. As a survivor of sexual assault, Rachelle’s charitable work with the RAINN organization is near and dear to her heart. Part of her platform is helping other victims, so sharing her own story publicly during her first pageant was a big part of her healing. Women everywhere should know that their past doesn’t affect their self-worth or who they are.

“It’s not letting past challenges define you,” she told the New York Post in a recent interview after taking home the Miss New York crown. “I believe that my story brings hope for other people — it’s not just about me anymore. It’s about sharing and being vulnerable, so people don’t feel alone.”

Monni Nyaribo
Miss North Dakota USA

Monni is a proud first-generation Kenyan American and is ready to bring her captivating energy and tenacious spirit to the Miss USA stage. Monni has truly embodied what it means to be ” North Dakota Legendary” by becoming the first African American woman to secure the title of Miss North Dakota USA in the pageant’s 72-year history. She is paving her way to becoming a United Nations Ambassador and embracing her passion for philanthropy and the betterment of humankind. Beyond her extraordinary achievements, Monni has chosen to pridefully wear her kinky afro, along with other protective styles to show the beauty and diversity of Black Woman’s hair. She is making it her mission to guide the state of North Dakota towards the passage of the CROWN Act, which stands for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair” prohibiting race- based hair discrimination. Monni is truly a trailblazer who serves her community with humility and pride while promoting empowerment for all.

Liv Walbeck
Miss Oklahoma USA

Liv Walbeck is a storyteller. From reciting Dr. Seuss books as a child to performing in theater, her interests in public speaking and the performing arts have led her to pursue a career as a Lifestyle and Entertainment Television Host.

Liv is an on-field host for the Triple-A Affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers and a broadcast journalism student at the University of Oklahoma (Boomer Sooner!). Through telling feel-good stories, Liv feels that she can play a role in leaving a positive impact on others.

Her platform, Liv it Well, aims to inspire others to know their worth. She started a social media page dedicated to encouraging others to “Liv” a better life. She also produces and hosts video packages for businesses around Oklahoma that accomplish the same goal.

An avid music fan, Liv enjoys writing song lyrics and poetry. She’s also an active volunteer with Dress for Success.

Jasmine (Jas) Daniels 
Miss Pennsylvania USA

Jasmine (Jas) Daniels is a graduate of Immaculata University and a proud woman in tech, working as a Client Manager for a digital marketing agency. Her entrepreneurial spirit motivated her to also start her own boutique-style digital marketing agency, helping small businesses nationwide create impactful websites and build a social media presence.



When she’s not busy in her home office, Jasmine loves the gym, traveling – especially to the beach, trying new restaurants, and spending quality time with her family and dogs, Kingston and Kimber!



A woman of ambition, diligence, and resilience, Jas is passionate about service, representation, and uplifting women. Her ultimate goal is to make sure others feel seen, heard, and valued in this world.



As a former Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA, Jasmine is humbled and excited to be back at the national level with the opportunity to be the next Miss USA!

Kirby Elizabeth
Miss South Carolina USA

Kirby Elizabeth Self is a native of Greenwood, SC, and an alumna of Clemson University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with degrees in Political Science and Women’s Leadership, minoring in Nonprofit Leadership. Kirby is the Upstate South Carolina Coordinator for The Council for Educational Travel USA, a non-profit that partners with the Department of State to facilitate high school exchange programs. She is currently earning a Master’s degree in Corporate Sustainability and Innovation from the Harvard Extension School.

An entrepreneur, Kirby has been granted a provisional patent for an invention and received the SC Department of Commerce’s Young Entrepreneurs Award.

A former three-time state champion in track and field, Coach Kirby enjoys mentoring young girls by volunteering for the non-profit Girls on the Run. In her spare time, you can find Kirby flying airplanes, hiking a national park, or reading her latest book club read.

Regan Ringler
Miss Tennessee USA

Regan Ringler, Miss Tennessee USA 2023, currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee. She is a native of Mississippi and has deep pride for her alma mater, The University of Southern Mississippi. There she received her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship, and she minored in Graphic Design. Upon graduating in 2019, she moved to Nashville, where she completed her Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University. While earning her MA, she worked full-time as an Account Executive and maintained a part-time job as a stylist and model in designer clothing liquidation.

In her spare time, Regan enjoys playing tennis with her Dad, volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, and spending time with her ragdoll cat, Theodore. She is passionate about fitness and healthy living. Regan never misses a chance to travel or try new foods. She views every risk as a challenge and an opportunity. Above all, Regan values time with her family and loved ones.

Prior to earning her title, Regan competed for seven consecutive years with the Miss Universe Organization. Her time as a competitor brought with it the pride, poise, and passion to effectively carry out the role of not only Miss Tennessee USA, but Miss USA. The resources and platform that the organization provides will help catalyze the impact that Regan will have on those she encounters along the way.

Regan’s life has been defined by her fortitude–saying “yes” to chance and learning lessons along the way. She has set her intention on persisting as Miss Tennessee USA in that same way. Never miss an opportunity. Leave a unique legacy. Say “yes” and enjoy the ride.

Noelia Voigt 
Miss Utah USA

Noelia Voigt embodies the essence of a transformational leader and a force for good. As an Interior Design student, her dream is to establish her own design firm and host a TV show, where she gives back to families in need of a home makeover. Her bilingual background as a Venezuelan-American woman enriches her cultural perspective. As the daughter of a Venezuelan immigrant, immigration rights are incredibly important to her. With a remarkable commitment to advocacy, Noelia has championed Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention for six years alongside the One Love Foundation, educating over a thousand students nationwide about the critical aspects of healthy and unhealthy relationships. She is also a published children’s book author. Off-duty, Noelia finds joy in teaching her Australian Shepherd, Mila, tricks, going car camping amidst Utah’s National Parks, and Latin dancing. Her fascination with severe weather fuels her aspiration for future storm chasing adventures.

Ashley Williams
Miss Virginia USA

Ashley made history by becoming the first Caribbean-American, with roots in Jamaica and Turks and Caicos Island, to be named Miss Virginia USA. With years of experience as an event coordinator, she works with government contracting executives and is grateful for the opportunity to connect our nation’s leaders. Ashley was able to combine her passion for dance with serving the community by becoming a NFL Cheerleader. Some of her favorite experiences during her three year tenure as a cheerleader include: traveling overseas on USO tours, performing in the 2020 Super Bowl Halftime show alongside J Lo and Shakira, and skydiving with the United States Army Parachute Team. Her goal is to continuously show appreciation for our troops by working with organizations that empower active-duty military and veterans. Earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she is a proud first-generation college graduate, who completed her studies as a student athlete.

Nevaeh Harmon
Miss West Virginia USA

Representing West Virginia, Nevaeh Harmon is a pre-med student at Marshall University, studying Biochemistry to become a pediatric physician, while also working as a certified pharmacy technician. She is also the former Vice President and former Chief of Staff of the Student Body at the university. Her mission as the representative of her state is “to inspire women and girls to dream bigger and to lead without fear”. As a Black and Filipina woman in STEM, Nevaeh finds it imperative to show our youth to look within for their confidence and strength, and to be the example that no matter who you are or where you come from, you are more than worthy of achieving everything that your heart desires. Nevaeh was born and raised in Charleston, WV, and having the opportunity to represent those ‘country roads’ that raised her is something that she holds close to her heart.