Olivia Culpo crowned Miss USA 2012

(Las Vegas) – Olivia Culpo of Rhode Island was named Miss USA and was honored with a crown that she will wear when representing the United States at the Miss Universe pageant later this year. When the winner’s crown was placed on Culpo’s head, tears came to her eyes as she accepted the congratulations of fellow contestants and walked the stage as the new Miss USA in a flowing, purple evening gown that was among the few splashes of color in a competition that featured several white dress.
Miss Maryland, Nana Meriwether, was the runner-up, and contestants from Ohio, Nevada and Georgia rounded out the top five finalists. Miss Congenialtiy went to Miss Iowa, Rebecca Hodge, and the most photogenic award went to Miss Oregon, Alaina Bergsma. The Miss Universe pageant will be held in December.