HAWAII (TND) — The new Miss USA 2023 has been named after the former winner, Noelia Voigt, stepped down to protect her mental health.
Savannah Gankiewicz, Miss Hawaii USA and the first runner-up in the 2023 competition was named Thursday by the pageant's Instagram page.
Gankiewicz will officially be crowned in her home state of Hawaii in a celebratory coronation on May 15.
"We are proud to crown Savannah Miss USA 2023, A true representation of vision, intelligence, and compassion," Miss USA Organization CEO & President Laylah Rose said in a statement. "Her dedication to empowering women through self-love and confidence is inspiring, and we look forward to her impactful reign as Miss USA."
In a separate post, Gankiewicz wrote that her "decision to accept the Miss USA crown was not one that was made lightly" and that she stands with Noelia and admires her strength to step down.
"To the state of Hawaii and my family and friends who have always uplifted me during this journey, it is a privilege to accept this title on behalf of you. I hope to make you all proud," she said.
Voigt announced her decision to step down on Monday saying she would resign and put down the sash and tiara she won in November while representing Utah.
“Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth,” Voigt wrote on Instagram. She went on to express her appreciation for the people who supported her along the way, as well as the coaches and directors that helped her.
Only two days after her announcement, Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava resigned from her title explaining that her "personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization."
Gankiewicz is a model, entrepreneur and program director for the nonprofit "What Makes You Feel Beautiful," which is dedicated to fostering self-love in girls and women, according to Miss USA.
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