Benjamin Jones
Noelia Voigt, who was crowned Miss USA 2023, unexpectedly resigned on Monday and posted a message on social media asking people to prioritize their mental health.
In a post on Instagram, the former Miss Utah USA said it was a difficult decision. She said she knew her resignation could come as a shock to many, but that she strongly values “making decisions that are best for you and your mental health.”
“Deep down, I know this is just the beginning of a new chapter for me, and my hope is to continue to inspire others to stand tall, prioritize their mental health, advocate for themselves and others using their voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it seems uncertain,” said Voigt.
His announcement was confirmed by the competition, which thanked Voight for his service and wished him the best.
“We respect and support Noelia’s decision to step down from her duties,” the Miss USA Organization said. said in a Facebook post. “The well-being of our members is a top priority and we understand the need to prioritize it at this time.”
Officials are reviewing plans to transition Miss USA’s responsibilities to a successor. A new Miss USA will be crowned soon. The first runner-up in the 2023 pageant was Miss Hawaii USA Savannah Gankiewicz, followed by Miss Wisconsin USA Alexis Loomans, Miss Pennsylvania USA Jasmine Daniels and Miss Texas USA Lluvia Alzate.
As Miss USA, Voigt participated in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant, won by Miss Nicaragua.
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Voigt was the first Venezuelan-American woman to be crowned Miss USA.
“Her bilingual background as a Venezuelan-American woman enriches her cultural perspective,” said the Miss USA website grades. “As the daughter of a Venezuelan immigrant, immigration rights are extremely important to her.”
Voigt said she valued being able to use her time as Miss USA to advocate for immigration rights, as well as anti-bullying campaigns and dating violence awareness and prevention.
“I could never have imagined the journey my childhood dream would take me on,” she said on Instagram. “Hard work and constant, consistent dedication have gotten me to where I am today, and I hope that the past seven years of competing in pageantry and sharing my journey with all of you is something that inspires you to never give up on your dreams, whatever they may be.”
