Events

Savannah Gankiewicz Rises as New Miss USA Amidst Turmoil and Allegations

Thursday 16 May 2024 - 17:25

In a whirlwind of events, Savannah Gankiewicz, 28, of Hawaii, has been crowned the new Miss USA 2023 following the shocking resignations of former titleholders and allegations of a toxic work environment within the pageant organization. Gankiewicz formally accepted the role in a special coronation and celebration held in Waikiki on Wednesday, pledging to bring resilience and hope to her reign.

The transition comes on the heels of Noelia Voigt's resignation as Miss USA 2023, citing the need to prioritize her mental health. However, internet sleuths uncovered a hidden message in Voigt's statement, spelling out "I am silenced" – a cryptic allusion to the tumultuous circumstances surrounding her departure.

Days after her public announcement, NBC News obtained a copy of Voigt's resignation letter, which leveled serious accusations against the Miss USA organization. Voigt alleged a "toxic work environment" plagued by "poor management, bullying, and harassment," stemming from the organization's CEO and President, Laylah Rose.

Voigt's letter detailed instances of Rose's alleged "cold and unnecessarily aggressive" communication, threats to revoke her salary, and disparaging remarks made about her within the organization. Additionally, Voigt recounted a disturbing incident of sexual harassment during a Christmas event in Florida, which she claimed Rose dismissed as an inescapable part of her role as a public figure.

In response, Rose issued a statement affirming her commitment to taking allegations seriously and prioritizing the well-being of all individuals associated with Miss USA.

The turmoil extended further as Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava, 17, and Miss USA's social media manager, Claudia Michelle, also resigned, citing misalignment with the organization's direction and unprofessional management, respectively.

Amidst the maelstrom, Gankiewicz struck a conciliatory tone, expressing empathy for the former titleholders while maintaining her belief in the organization and its leadership. "Miss USA has been amazing to me. I believe in Laylah Rose," she stated, praising Rose's kindness and expressing confidence in her ability to steer the organization toward positive change.

Gankiewicz's coronation marks a pivotal moment for the Miss USA organization as it navigates allegations of misconduct and seeks to restore public trust. Her reign, which will continue until August when her successor is crowned, presents an opportunity to exemplify the resilience and hope that Hawaii's governor, Josh Green, lauded her for embodying.

As the controversy unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on the Miss USA organization, with stakeholders and the public awaiting substantive actions to address the concerning allegations and chart a path forward that upholds the integrity and values embodied by the esteemed pageant.