The Miss Universe OrganizationCongratulations are in order for Deshauna Barber!
The former Miss District of Columbia took home the prestigious title—and sash—of Miss USA 2016 Sunday evening at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Between her natural beauty, articulate answers to some pretty tough questions and overall presentation, the judges and audience couldn't help but fall in love with the 26-year-old.
So who exactly is representing the United States for the next year? You'll easily be impressed with her activities and hobbies both in and out of the beauty pageant world. And did we mention her favorite movie is Troy and she would love to meet Angelina Jolie? Good vibes, right?
Without further ado, let us introduce you to Deshauna.
1. American Hero: Miss USA was commissioned as a Quartermaster Officer in 2011 before becoming a Logistics Commander for the 988th Quartermaster Detachment Unit at Fort Meade, Maryland. "I am ready to break the stereotype for female soldiers and bust through the pageantry glass ceiling that has been laid over the heads of this industry," she wrote on Instagram days before the pageant. "Time to show that we as women are versatile, strong and can be anything we set our minds to."
2. Charity Counts: One look at Deshauna's Instagram and you'll immediately recognize that she loves helping others. Whether attending events with The USO or Best Buddies, the philanthropist has no hesitation leading a helping hand to young girls. "I spent this weekend in Connecticut tag teaming with the USO, Sherri Hill and over 20 Miss USA and Miss Teen USA contestants to volunteer for the Operation That's My Dress event," she wrote after one experience. "So thankful to have attended this amazing event!!!"
3. Fitness First: If you're curious to know how Deshauna stays so fit, we may have found the person responsible. In an Instagram from about two months ago, we learned John Anthony Morris Fitness helps keep the beauty queen feeling good. "Truly an amazing gym with awesome equipment!" she shared after one visit. "Not to mention John is so motivating and he provided me with great workouts that will help me have a rocking body for the Miss USA Stage this summer!!!!" Hard work does pay off.
4. Brains and Beauty: Putting looks aside, Deshauna is incredibly smart. After graduating with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Business Management from Virginia State University, she moved to Washington D.C. where she is currently working as an IT Analyst for the U.S. Department of Commerce. Not too shabby, wouldn't you say?
5. Vegas Girl: In the days leading up to the big pageant, Deshauna was feeling grateful for all the opportunities that were coming her way. And experiencing the sights and sounds of Las Vegas may have been the ultimate bonus. Whether enjoying great meals at restaurants like Tap Restaurant at the MGM Grand or shopping for new shoes at Chinese Laundry, a girl's got to do what a girls' got to do. In our humble opinion, she deserves all the fun.