Alma Cooper Wins Miss USA 2024: Key Highlights and Recent Controversies
Alma Cooper Crowned Miss USA 2024
In an exciting event at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, Alma Cooper from Michigan was officially crowned Miss USA 2024. The competition, which took place on Sunday, featured impressive performances from contestants across the nation. Connor Perry of Kentucky was named the first runner-up, and Danika Christopherson from Oklahoma secured the second runner-up position.
Background on Recent Resignations
The Miss USA 2024 title comes at a time of significant change for the organization. Former Miss USA 2023, Noelia Voigt, and Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava both resigned earlier this year under controversial circumstances. Voigt’s resignation was particularly notable as she highlighted severe mental health issues and allegations of a toxic work environment. In a resignation letter obtained by ABC News, Voigt accused the Miss USA organization of poor management, bullying, and even sexual harassment.
Allegations Against Laylah Rose
Voigt’s letter specifically named Laylah Rose, the president and CEO of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA, accusing her of being unresponsive and of slandering Voigt. In response, Rose issued an open letter on May 30, 2024, firmly denying these allegations. Rose assured that the Miss USA organization does not tolerate harassment and stated that any such incidents would be addressed immediately.
Voigt’s Response and Public Reaction
Voigt responded to Rose’s letter on Instagram, expressing frustration over being bound by a non-disclosure agreement that prevented her from speaking freely. Voigt urged Rose to waive the NDA so she could fully disclose her experience.
Impact of Resignations
The resignations of Voigt and Srivastava have drawn significant media attention. Barbara Srivastava, UmaSofia’s mother, told “Good Morning America” that the role had turned into a “nightmare,” leading to her daughter’s difficult decision to resign.
Miss USA Organization’s Response
In her letter, Rose emphasized that the Miss USA organization is evolving to better support its contestants. This includes partnering with the National Association for Mental Illness (NAMI) to provide mental health resources and removing age requirements to enhance inclusivity.
New Appointments and Future Outlook
Following the resignations, Savannah Gankiewicz, Miss Hawaii USA and the first runner-up in the 2023 Miss USA competition, was named Miss USA 2023. The position of Miss Teen USA 2023 remains vacant.
Alma Cooper’s crowning as Miss USA 2024 marks a new chapter for the organization, with hopes for a more supportive and inclusive environment moving forward.
