The crown has a new home! Audrey Eckert, 23, from Nebraska, was named Miss USA 2025 on Oct 24 in Reno, Nevada, besting 50 contestants in a historic pageant under new CEO Thom Brodeur.

With Noelia Voigt’s surprise hosting return, four open-casting finalists in top 20, and Alma Cooper’s absence, this year marked a fresh start. Audrey now heads to Miss Universe Nov 21 in Thailand. From her cheer roots to digital safety advocacy, here’s everything on the new queen — plus how to copy her pageant glow for under $100.

Audrey’s Journey: Cheer Squad to Crown

Audrey’s no newbie — she started pageants at 9, won Miss Nebraska Teen USA 2020 (top 5 nationally), and snagged Miss Nebraska USA in April 2025. A University of Nebraska–Lincoln grad (business admin, marketing minor), she captained the Husker Cheer Squad and now coaches 300+ athletes.

Her platform? Digital safety — she’s Sapahn’s social media coordinator (Thai human-rights brand) and teaches kids online protection. “Nearly half of teens face cyberbullying,” she shared on Insta.

Win Moment: Audrey dropped to her knees in gold confetti as dad sprinted onstage yelling “Yeah!” (He did the same at state level.) Crowned by Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig (Alma Cooper skipped), she’s the second Nebraskan Miss USA after Sarah Rose Summers (2018).

Historic Pageant: New Rules, New Faces

This was the first Miss USA with:

• Women over 28 (top 20 had several).

• Mothers in top 20 (Miss Oregon Chantea McIntyre, Miss Idaho Jenny Crawford).

• Hijab & burkini (Miss New Hampshire MonaLesa Brackett).

• Public alopecia (Miss Nevada Mary Sickler, 4th runner-up).

Open Casting: 4 top 20 from Brodeur’s call (filled 8 missing states).
Scholarships: All 51 got full ride to Mississippi State.
Prizes: $75K cash, Jaguar car, Cannes trip, modeling contract — $250K+ total.

Voigt’s Return: Hosted prelims, advised Audrey: “Protect your heart, protect your peace.”

Audrey’s Miss Universe Prep: 6 Days to Thailand

Audrey flies out Thursday — just 6 days post-win. She’s been training years:

• Walks: Cheer/dance background for “hairography.”

• Interviews: Current events deep dives.

• Wardrobe: LA fittings now.

She’ll follow Sarah Rose Summers (Nebraska’s 2018 Miss USA) to Thailand. “Immerse in culture — I work with Thai artisans at Sapahn,” she told Business Insider.

Steal Audrey’s Pageant Glow: Looks Under $100

Audrey’s swimsuit win and evening gown poise = effortless elegance. Recreate for formals or parties:

1. Best in Swimsuit Vibe
Structured one-piece + confidence.
Shop:

• Speedo Endurance Suit ($60).

• Add: Gold Hoops ($20) = $80.

2. Evening Gown Drama
Flowing chiffon + sleek updo.
Shop:

• ASOS Chiffon Maxi ($70).

• Add: Statement Clutch ($25) = $95.

3. Interview Polish
Blazer + trousers.
Shop:

• H&M Blazer ($50) + Pants ($40) = $90.

Total Starter Kit: $265 (mix & match).

Glow Hack: Dewy skin (highlighter $15) + bold lip ($20).

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