Michigan’s Alma Cooper Wins Miss USA 2024
On August 4, 2024, Alma Cooper from Michigan was crowned Miss USA 2024 at the 73rd annual Miss USA pageant held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Cooper, a 22-year-old U.S. Army officer with a Master’s in data science from Stanford University, triumphed over 50 contestants in various competitions, including swimwear and evening gown. Kentucky’s Connor Perry and Oklahoma’s Danika Christopherson were named first and second runners-up, respectively.
A Tumultuous Year for the Pageant
Cooper’s win concludes a tumultuous year for the Miss USA pageant. She takes the title after the shock resignation of 2023’s winner, Utah’s Noelia Voigt, who stepped down in May amid controversy. Voigt’s resignation was followed by that of Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava, leading to a period of instability for the pageant.
Voigt’s resignation was attributed to mental health issues but sparked speculation due to a cryptic message in her resignation post. She alleged delays in receiving prizes and a “toxic work environment,” including claims of sexual harassment. Srivastava’s resignation was reportedly due to a clash in values with the Miss USA organization.
Pageant Innovations and Firsts
The Miss USA pageant introduced several new elements this year. For the first time since 2007, the event was hosted in California. The Miss Universe Organization also lifted the age restriction for contestants, allowing women over 28 to participate. Notable finalists included 41-year-old Kristina Johnson from Arizona and contestants from other states in their 30s.
The pageant also saw historic firsts, including Maryland’s Bailey Anne Kennedy as the first transgender contestant from her state and Shavana Clarke of Connecticut as the first openly lesbian state titleholder.
Looking Ahead
Alma Cooper will represent the United States in the Miss Universe 2024 contest, set to take place in Mexico later this year.