Winner and Top Placements
Miss USA 2019 was Kaliegh Garris of Connecticut, crowned by outgoing titleholder Sarah Rose Summers of Nebraska on May 2, 2019, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. As her state’s representative, Garris won the right to compete at Miss Universe 2019. The pageant’s final placements and awards are summarized below in a concise, fact-focused table.
| Placement | Contestant | State | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miss USA 2019 | Kaliegh Garris | Connecticut | Winner; competed at Miss Universe 2019 |
| 1st Runner-Up | Cathy Untalan-Vital | Virginia | Previously Miss Virginia USA 2018 |
| 2nd Runner-Up | Payton May | District of Columbia | Contestant and former Miss D.C. Teen USA |
| 3rd Runner-Up | Bailee Kemp | Louisiana | Contestant from Houma |
| 4th Runner-Up | Caitlyn Vandelicht | Washington | Contestant from Snohomish |
Event Details and Venue
Date and Location
The 2019 competition was held on May 2, 2019, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. The event was produced by IMG and televised in the United States on Fox. This marked the first time the pageant was held in Reno since 1992 and the last time under the ownership of WME/IMG before organizational changes in subsequent years.
Selection of Contestants
Each state and the District of Columbia selected their representative through local pageant systems held throughout 2018 and early 2019. State competitions were organized by local directors licensed under the Miss Universe Organization. Contestants were required to meet eligibility criteria, including U.S. citizenship or residency and meeting age requirements typically set between 18 and 28 years old at the time of state competition.
Judging Criteria and Competition Format
Contestants were evaluated across several core segments: evening gown, swimsuit, and a live interview portion introduced in recent years to emphasize personality, intelligence, and advocacy. Judges—industry professionals, former titleholders, and subject experts—assessed poise, communication skills, and overall presentation. The interview segment allowed contestants to discuss personal initiatives and respond to current issues, adding depth to the traditional visual categories.
Notable Participants and After-Miss USA Outcomes
- Kaliegh Garris (Miss USA 2019): Continued her platform focusing on representation and confidence; competed at Miss Universe 2019.
- Cathy Untalan-Vital (1st Runner-Up): A returning state titleholder with prior national experience, she remained active in advocacy and public speaking.
- Payton May (2nd Runner-Up): A vocal advocate and former minor titleholder, she pursued media and public engagement following the competition.
- Bailee Kemp (3rd Runner-Up): Continued community involvement and regional representation post-pageant.
- Caitlyn Vandelicht (4th Runner-Up): Engaged in local and national initiatives, leveraging her platform for awareness building.
Legacy and Historical Context
Miss USA 2019 occurred during a period of transition for the organization, which was then under the ownership of WME/IMG. The pageant’s emphasis on communication skills and social advocacy became more pronounced in the late 2010s. Garris’s win represented continued diversity among titleholders, reflecting varied regional backgrounds and professional experiences among contestants.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who judged Miss USA 2019?
The panel included industry professionals, former Miss USA winners, and subject-matter experts in areas such as media, business, and social advocacy, though specific judge names were not centrally archived on a public-facing official page as of 2023.
Where can I find official photos or videos?
Broadcast-quality footage and selected photos were distributed by Fox Television and IMG; clips and highlights remain available through official Miss USA social channels and network archives.
What happens after Miss USA?
The winner represents the United States at Miss Universe. First through fourth runners-up often pursue advocacy, media appearances, and regional responsibilities tied to their state organizations.
Were any contestants previously Miss Teen USA?
Some state contestants held prior Teen titles, including district and national crowns; this varies by individual and state history.
Is the winner paid?
While exact figures are rarely disclosed, winners typically receive a titleholder contract that includes salary, media commitments, and access to training and representation services. Terms are managed by the national organization.