New Miss USA 2023 Savannah Gankiewicz shines at coronation

Miss USA 2023 Savannah Gankiewicz at the coronation in Hawaii on May 15, 2024. Photo from Gankiewicz's Instagram

The coronation ceremony took place at a resort in Gankiewicz’s hometown of Hawaii on Wednesday evening. The beauty queen dazzled in a cut-out dress embellished with stones matching the Miss USA crown.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green presented Gankiewicz with the crown and sash at the coronation. The beauty queen will serve as Miss USA until her term ends in August.

As reported by CNN, Gankiewicz expressed during her speech: "While this decision was not made lightly, I firmly believe that this opportunity was meant for me and I am ready to make a positive impact with this organization that I hold dear to my heart."

"I am dedicated to taking action and making a difference," she continued. "With my background as a certified mental health first aid responder and training in anti-bullying suicide prevention."

Gankiewicz, who was the first runner-up in the Miss USA 2023 pageant held last September, was appointed to the title in early May after the former Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt stepped down, making history as the first titleholder to voluntarily resign in the 72-year history of the pageant.

In her resignation letter, Voigt described the Miss USA organization’s work environment as "toxic," citing poor management and instances of bullying and harassment.

Following Voigt’s resignation, Miss Teen USA 2023 UmaSofia Srivastava also resigned.

At 28, Gankiewicz is a model. Her coronation marks her as the fifth woman from Hawaii to hold the Miss USA title.