Miss Nebraska Crowned Miss USA 2025: From Cheerleader to Beauty Queen
According to her official Miss USA bio, Audrey Eckert holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where she was also a member of the Husker cheer squad. Professionally, she serves as a social media and marketing coordinator for the Thai luxury handbag brand Sapahn. Eckert’s educational background and professional achievements underline her commitment to leadership and communication skills, which she believes are essential for modern women balancing beauty with purpose.
During the final question round, Eckert was asked what she hopes future generations will say about the people of today. She responded confidently, “Our generation is, without a doubt, adaptable. I work in digital media every single day and teach over 500 athletes weekly how to stay safe online. Being adaptable is key—just like the role of Miss USA, who must lead with pride and resilience.”
Miss USA 2025 Pageant: Fifty-One Contestants, One Crown
This year’s Miss USA pageant contestants represented all 50 states and the District of Columbia, competing across swimsuit, evening gown, and interview rounds in Reno earlier this week. Unlike in previous years, the 2025 pageant introduced several structural changes under the leadership of new CEO Thom Brodeur, who emphasized fairness and transparency in the judging process. The selection committee, traditionally influential in determining finalists, was eliminated for the first time. Brodeur told Business Insider that his intention was to ensure contestants had a “100% fair shot” at winning without external influence. “Who the judges pick is the winner. No one else’s voice or influence affects the results,” he said.
This year’s judging panel included Miss USA 2014 and reality TV star Nia Sanchez, Dancing With the Stars pro Sasha Farber, model scout Hannah Edwards, designer Kenneth Barlis, and Bachelor in Paradise alum Jade Roper Tolbert.
Modernizing the Miss USA Pageant
The 2025 competition marks a turning point for the Miss USA brand, which has faced several controversies in recent years, including allegations of favoritism and internal mismanagement. Brodeur has vowed to “restore integrity and excitement” to the pageant world. One notable change was the return of current event interview questions, which had previously been removed under former CEO Laylah Rose. Brodeur said, “We’re not just talking about favorite colors or songs anymore. These women are intelligent, informed, and ready to lead.”
Contestants were quizzed on artificial intelligence, women’s financial empowerment, and social adaptability, underscoring the organization’s push to highlight intellect alongside beauty.
A New Era for Miss USA
Eckert’s victory is symbolic of what organizers are calling a “new era” for Miss USA, as the competition works to rebuild its reputation after years of turmoil. Since 2020, the pageant has faced rigging allegations, sexual harassment claims, and multiple CEO turnovers. With Eckert’s coronation, CEO Brodeur hopes to steer Miss USA and Miss Teen USA back to their cultural roots as platforms for empowerment and representation. “My goal,” he said, “is to reestablish Miss USA and Miss Teen USA as America’s ‘It Girls.’ Time will prove that this organization is once again about opportunity, dignity, and dreams.”
Eckert’s reign begins immediately, with a busy travel and media schedule ahead of her. Following her win, she is expected to depart for Thailand in early November to compete in Miss Universe 2025, whose televised finals are slated for November 21.
FAQs
Who won Miss USA 2025?
Miss Nebraska Audrey Eckert was crowned Miss USA 2025 at the 74th annual pageant held at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada.
How has the Miss USA pageant changed in 2025?
Under new CEO Thom Brodeur, the competition eliminated the selection committee, ensuring judges alone decide the winners. Interview questions now also include current affairs, reflecting the modern, intelligent persona of contestants.