Miss USA Pageant

Since MISS USA began in 1952, titleholders and tens of thousands of women in the fifty states and the District of Columbia have contributed to making the competition a national tradition. In 1972, the 21st annual search for Miss USA was held in Puerto Rico and was broadcast live via satellite for the first time. The MISS UNIVERSE, MISS USA and MISS TEEN USA Pageants are a Donald J. Trump and NBC Universal joint venture. Utilizing its nationwide grass roots infrastructure, the Miss Universe Organization is committed to increasing HIV/AIDS awareness and increasing awareness of breast and ovarian cancers. By forging relationships with organizations committed to research and education such as the Latino Commission on AIDS, Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Gilda's Club, the women who champion these causes during their reign are armed to impact women today. The titleholders of the Miss Universe Organization personify the combination of beauty and intelligence that defines the 21st Century.