Justus Kelley has made history after being crowned Miss USA 2026, becoming the first married woman and mother to win the prestigious title.

Kelley, 31, represented Virginia at the 75th edition of the Miss USA pageant held on August 27 at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami, Florida.

 She emerged victorious after competing against contestants representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Her victory marks a significant shift in the history of the Miss USA competition.

The organisation changed its eligibility rules in 2023, removing restrictions that had previously prevented married women and mothers from competing.

 The age limit was also removed, allowing women above the previous age threshold to participate.

Kelley is a foster mother of two children and the founder of Foster Footprints, an initiative focused on supporting children in foster care.

 She is also a children’s book author and works as a philanthropic adviser at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

During the final round of the competition, Kelley spoke about the changing expectations placed on women.

 She emphasised that women should not have to choose between pursuing ambitious careers, raising families and following their dreams.

Her achievement is particularly significant given the pageant’s history. In 1957, Mary Leona Gage was stripped of her Miss USA crown after organisers discovered that she was married and had children.

Nearly seven decades later, Kelley has claimed the title under rules that recognise marriage and motherhood as compatible with competing for the crown.

Kelly received a comprehensive prize package valued at approximately Sh 88 million. This impressive total includes Sh 19 million yearlong salary and a fully paid lease in a luxury apartment in Miami, alongside a Westgate Vacation Club home.

Miss USA titleholder was also gifted a brand-new Range Rover. The organisation also covers all travel expenses for the winner to represent the country at the international Miss Universe pageant, providing sh 4million wardrobe subsidy to ensure they are fully prepared.

As Miss USA 2026, Kelley will represent the United States at the Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico in November, where she will compete against representatives from around the world.