Miss USA Noelia Voight Announces She's Stepping Down in Moving Post

Noelia Voight at the 2024 Kentucky Derby.

Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt, the first Venezuelen-American woman to earn the title, is resigning from her position.

The 24-year-old shared "very tough decision" in a thoughtful statement shared via her Instagram account on Monday, May 6, acknowledging that, while it likely came "as a large shock to many," it was critical not only for her but her followers to "never compromise...physical and mental well-being."

Though her "journey as Miss USA has been incredibly meaningful," from her time as Miss Utah to representing the country at Miss Universe, Voigt explained that she "strongly value[s] the importance of making decisions that feel best for you and your mental health."

She takes away "invaluable things" from her time as Miss USA, including "lifelong friendships and connections" and her work with Smile Train as "a fervent advocate for anti-bullying, dating violence awareness and prevention, [and] immigration rights and reform," which she's grateful to have shed a spotlight on through "the platform [she] was given to make a difference."

"Never could I have imagined the journey that my childhood dream would take me on," she continued, crediting "constant and consistent hard work and dedication" for getting her there.

"Deep down I know that this is just the beginning of a new chapter for me, and my hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain," she added, sending her love to everyone reading.

"Time to write the next chapter," she concluded. "I hope you’ll stick around to see what’s next 🤍."

The organization responded to the resignation in a statement shared directly with Parade, writing, "We respect and support former Miss USA Noelia Voigt’s decision to step down from her duties. The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritize herself at this time. The organization is currently reviewing plans for the transition of responsibilities to a successor and an announcement regarding the crowning of the new Miss USA will be coming soon."

Next: Meet the New Miss America 2024 and the 50 Lovely Ladies Who Make Up Her Court