Miss USA Honors Late Icon Chelsi Smith by Renaming Miss Congeniality Award in Historic Tribute
Published on October 26, 2025 – 16:15 EDT By Bria – Echobroad
In a poignant and groundbreaking moment at the 74th Annual Miss USA pageant, the organization paid tribute to one of its most beloved queens by renaming the Miss Congeniality Award after the late Chelsi Smith. The announcement, made during the finals on October 24, 2025, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, celebrates Smith's enduring legacy as a trailblazer who embodied grace, kindness, and resilience. As the first and only Texan to win both Miss USA and Miss Universe in 1995, Smith's story of triumph over adversity—culminating in her battle with liver cancer—continues to inspire. This rename not only immortalizes her spirit but also highlights the pageant's evolution toward honoring authenticity and compassion in an industry often scrutinized for its focus on perfection.
The Historic Announcement: A Night of Legacy and Emotion
The Miss USA finals were a glittering affair, blending glamour, talent, and heartfelt moments. Co-host Olivia Jordan, herself a former Miss USA 2015 winner, delivered the news alongside sports analyst Emmanuel Acho. "We are making history," Jordan declared, her voice filled with emotion. "We have decided to rename the Miss Congeniality award after one of the most iconic beauty queens in history. In 1995, Chelsi Smith won Miss Texas USA, Miss USA, and then Miss Universe."
Smith's achievements were unparalleled: she became the first American in 15 years to claim the Miss Universe crown, donning a stunning gown and radiating poise on the global stage. But it was her consistent wins for Miss Congeniality—earning the title in nearly every competition she entered—that truly set her apart. "She also won Miss Congeniality in nearly every pageant she competed in," Jordan continued. "In 2018, Chelsi lost her battle with cancer. The Miss USA organization wants to honor her legacy by renaming Miss Congeniality the Chelsi Smith Congeniality Award."
The audience erupted in applause as Miss Delaware, Tetra Shaylice Shockley, was named the inaugural recipient of the newly christened honor. Miss Nebraska, Audrey Eckert, took home the Miss USA 2025 crown, with Miss New Jersey, Ivy Harrington, as first runner-up. The rename underscores the pageant's commitment to values beyond beauty—kindness, camaraderie, and inner strength—qualities Smith exemplified throughout her life.
Chelsi Smith's Trailblazing Journey: From Texas to the Universe
Born on August 23, 1973, in Redwood City, California, Chelsi Pearl Smith moved to Texas as a child, where she honed her talents in modeling and pageantry. Her biracial heritage—African American and Caucasian—made her a symbol of diversity in an era when inclusivity was still emerging in the industry. At 21, she clinched Miss Texas USA, propelling her to national and international fame.
Her 1995 Miss Universe victory in Windhoek, Namibia, was a watershed moment. Crowned in a dazzling evening gown, Smith outshone 81 competitors, becoming the first Texan to hold both major titles. Her win broke barriers, inspiring women of color and proving that authenticity triumphs. Smith's post-pageant career included acting, singing, and advocacy, using her platform to promote education and self-esteem among youth.
Tragically, in 2017, Smith was diagnosed with liver cancer. She fought valiantly for a year, passing away on September 8, 2018, at 45. Her death prompted an outpouring of tributes from the pageant world, with figures like Shanna Moakler and Olivia Culpo honoring her as a "queen in every sense." Smith's legacy endures through scholarships and initiatives in her name, now amplified by this award rename.
Why the Rename Matters: Evolving Pageant Culture
The decision to rename the award reflects a shift in the Miss USA organization toward meaningful recognition. Miss Congeniality, popularized by films like Miss Congeniality (2000) starring Sandra Bullock, traditionally honors the contestant voted most likable by peers. By tying it to Smith, the pageant elevates it as a beacon of genuine kindness amid competition.
"This is about more than crowns—it's about character," said pageant director Crystle Stewart in a post-event interview. Smith's story resonates in 2025's cultural landscape, where mental health, diversity, and resilience are forefront. Amid criticisms of pageants as outdated, this move modernizes the brand, aligning with initiatives like mental health support for contestants post the 2022 suicide of Cheslie Kryst (no relation to Chelsi Smith, but another Miss USA who faced similar pressures).
Experts praise the tribute. "Renaming honors trailblazers while inspiring future queens," noted pageant historian Lu Sierra. For young women searching "Miss USA history" or "Chelsi Smith legacy," this serves as a reminder of pageantry's potential for empowerment.
The 2025 Pageant Highlights: Winners, Judges, and Glamour
The 74th Miss USA was a spectacle of talent and poise. Audrey Eckert of Nebraska claimed the crown, impressing with her advocacy for environmental conservation. First runner-up Ivy Harrington from New Jersey wowed in evening wear, while Tetra Shockley of Delaware embodied congeniality, fittingly receiving the newly named award.
Judges included Nia Sanchez (Miss USA 2014, Miss Universe 2014 first runner-up), Jade Roper Tolbert (The Bachelor alum and cosmetics entrepreneur), Sasha Farber (Dancing with the Stars pro), Kenneth Barlis (fashion designer), and Hannah Edwards (model scout). Their diverse perspectives ensured a holistic evaluation.
The event, streamed on USA Network, featured swimsuit, evening gown, and Q&A segments, with contestants addressing topics like climate change and women's rights. Musical performances by artists like Lainey Wilson added star power.
Fan Reactions: A Wave of Emotion and Support
Social media buzzed with tributes. On X, #ChelsiSmithAward trended, with posts like: "Chelsi was pure class. This rename is perfect! 👑 #MissUSA2025" from @PageantQueenFan. Others shared memories: "Chelsi's 1995 win inspired my daughter to compete. RIP queen ❤️" via Instagram.
Smith's family expressed gratitude: "Chelsi's light shines on," said her mother in a statement. The pageant community, including past winners like Shanna Moakler, echoed the sentiment, calling it a "fitting honor."
Broader Impact: Inspiring Future Generations
Smith's rename elevates Miss Congeniality from a side award to a symbol of inner beauty. In an era of social media scrutiny, it promotes kindness over competition, aligning with movements like #BeKind. For aspiring contestants searching "Miss USA awards" or "Chelsi Smith cancer battle," it's a lesson in resilience.
The Miss USA organization, under new leadership post-2023 controversies, uses this to rebuild image, focusing on empowerment. As Miss Universe 2025 approaches, Smith's spirit will inspire globally.
This historic night reminds us: true beauty lies in compassion. Chelsi Smith's legacy—crowned in kindness—lives on.
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Sources: People Magazine, Miss USA official site, and pageant archives.
Follow pageant updates on echobroad.blogspot.com with #ChelsiSmithTribute
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