Miss USA Winner Noelia Voigt Steps Down Due to Mental Health Concerns
After being crowned Miss USA in November 2023, Noelia Voigt has made the difficult choice to resign from her position, prioritizing her mental well-being above all else.
Noelia Voigt, the reigning Miss USA since November 2023, has made the decision to step down from her position, citing the importance of her mental well-being.
In a heartfelt message shared on her Instagram account, she expressed her belief that this change marks the start of a new chapter in her life. Noelia hopes to continue inspiring others to prioritize their mental health, speak up for themselves and others, and embrace the unknown with courage.
Voigt, from Utah, took over the title of Miss USA 2022 from Morgan Romano of North Carolina. She made history as the first Venezuelan-American woman to win Miss USA.
According to a statement from a spokesperson for the Miss USA Organization to CNN on Monday, they fully support Voigt's choice to step down from her responsibilities. They emphasized that the health and happiness of their titleholders is a priority, and they respect Voigt's decision to prioritize herself at this time.
The organization is currently reviewing plans for the transition of responsibilities to a successor. They will be announcing the new Miss USA soon.
Savannah Gankiewicz from Hawaii was the first-runner-up to Voigt's victory in November. She is a potential candidate to be the newly crowned Miss USA. Other top five placements include Alexis Loomans from Wisconsin, Jasmine Daniels from Pennsylvania, and Lluvia Alzate from Texas.
Voigt, a contestant in November, emphasized the significance of her heritage during the final Q&A round at the competition. When asked about her contribution to the Miss Universe Organization, she pledged to engage with various communities throughout the United States.
In her statement, Voigt expressed pride in her involvement with Smile Train, a nonprofit organization dedicated to offering corrective surgery to children with cleft lips and palates. Additionally, she highlighted her advocacy for anti-bullying, prevention of dating violence, and support for immigration rights and reform.
I feel so grateful for the opportunity to make a difference and achieve my lifelong dream on the Miss USA stage. Connecting with people from all over the world has been amazing.
Even though I am proud of my experience and impact within the organization, I understand the importance of putting myself first as I move on to the next chapter.
“Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth,” she wrote.
This story has been updated with additional information.
CNN’s Elizabeth Wagmeister and Alex Rees contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
Noelia Voigt's decision to step down as Miss USA is a testament to the growing importance of mental health awareness. Her message encourages others to prioritize their well-being and seek support when needed. This is a significant step in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues, especially in high-profile settings like pageantry.
Voigt's resignation also highlights the pressure and expectations that come with being a titleholder. The Miss USA Organization's support for her decision demonstrates their commitment to the health and happiness of their contestants. This is a positive change that sets an example for other organizations and individuals to value mental well-being as much as physical health.
