Audrey Eckert Wins Miss USA 2025; Pageant Reforms

Audrey Eckert of Nebraska, 23, was crowned Miss USA 2025 at the 74th pageant in Reno and will represent the United States at Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand this November. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln graduate and former Husker cheer captain, who works as a social media and marketing coordinator for Thai brand Sapahn, beat 50 other contestants across swimsuit, evening gown and interview rounds. The event marked the pageant’s return under new ownership after nearly 18 months of turbulence, including the resignation of Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt and the absence of Miss USA 2024 Alma Cooper, who declined to participate but was honored during the finals. New CEO Thom Brodeur introduced structural reforms intended to increase fairness and transparency, notably removing the traditional selection committee so judges alone determine finalists and winners. Eckert was crowned by reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, with Ivy Harrington (New Jersey) and Chantéa McIntyre (Oregon) named first and second runners‑up, and Noelia Voigt made a surprise return as a host for the online broadcast.