Justus Kelley Makes History as First Married Mother Miss USA

Justus Kelley, representing Virginia, was crowned Miss USA 2026 on August 27 at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami, Florida. At 31 years old, she became the first married mother to win the title in the 75-year history of the Miss USA competition.

This historic win follows the Miss USA organization's 2023 rule change that permitted married women and mothers to compete, as well as the removal of age restrictions. Kelley, married to her college sweetheart Tyler Kelley, is also a licensed foster parent and is currently fostering a baby boy and his sister.

Her training for the competition was uniquely adapted to her family responsibilities, utilizing her children's nap times for preparation and incorporating them into her workouts. Kelley's achievement is significant as it represents the first legitimate Miss USA title won by a married mother, contrasting with the 1957 case of Mary Leona Gage, who was stripped of her title after it was revealed she was married and had children.