By Elaine Donnelly
Extending sexual misconduct to combat units
The 20-year-old Rhode Islander who brought the Miss Universe crown back to the U.S. for the first time in 15 years is hoping that her quick rise through the beauty contest ranks and an onstage stumble will show women that anything is possible.
An American university student is the new Miss Universe, defeating dozens of contestants from six continents to bring the crown back to the U.S. after a drought of more than a decade.
An American university student is the new Miss Universe, defeating dozens of contestants from six continents to bring the crown back to the United States after a drought of more than a decade.
The 20-year-old Rhode Islander who brought the Miss Universe crown back to the U.S. for the first time in 15 years is hoping that her quick rise through the beauty contest ranks and an onstage stumble will show women that anything is possible.
Women from around the world are preparing to don evening gowns, show their interview skills and strut in swimsuits on Wednesday in hopes of becoming the next Miss Universe.
A 20-year-old Boston University sophomore and a self-described "cellist-nerd" brought the Miss Universe crown back to the United States for the first time in more than a decade when she won the televised contest Wednesday.
Women from around the world squared off Wednesday night for the right to be called Miss Universe, as celebrity judges descended on the red carpet and brought some extra sparkle to the Las Vegas Strip.
Miss USA Olivia Culpo is one of 16 contestants advancing to the finals of the 2012 Miss Universe contest.
The contest that will decide the next Miss Universe was narrowed to five women Wednesday night, including Miss USA, Miss Brazil and Miss Philippines.
Miss Universe 2011, Leila Lopes of Angola, sported a low-cut sequined gown and said she expected this night to be the worst part of her year.
"Be calm and smile," she said. "Smiling helps a lot. Even though they are not relaxed, the judges will think that they are."
