New Albany's Alexis Lete finishes in top 5 of Miss USA pageant

Emma Austin
Louisville Courier Journal

Miss Indiana USA Alexis Lete talks virtually with a class in Evansville, Indiana.

Miss Indiana USA Alexis Lete said she walked onto the Miss USA pageant stage to be 100% herself, and she believes she did just that before being named third runner up Monday night.

Following a monthslong delay caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the pageant was held at Graceland Exhibition Center in Memphis, Tennessee. Miss Mississippi Asya Branch, the first Black woman to represent the state, was crowned Miss USA.

Though she entered the pageant with intentions to win, Lete, 24, said she's proud of her performance.

"In the pageant world I don't think there's always authenticity," Lete said. "I think a lot of people are afraid about how they'll be judged, and I went out on that stage 100% Alexis Lete with all my quirks and goofiness and humility, and I think I shined through."

Miss Indiana USA Alexis Lete always tries to have microphone with her when she attends large events. She doesn't want to be there just to take pictures. She always aims to either educate or entertain people.

After graduating as valedictorian of New Albany High School, Lete played Division I volleyball for George Washington University. Now, she's an aspiring actress and model with a goal to become a game show host.

Lete has built her message during her time as Miss Indiana USA around her motto, "Break the Mold," meaning people should unapologetically be themselves without worrying about judgment.

"There's a lot of power in just being yourself," she said.

Lete said her week in Memphis was unlike anything she's experienced, with temperature checks, social distancing and other coronavirus safeguards in place.

It was intense, she said, but throughout the week she felt humbled and empowered as she competed alongside the other contestants.

Miss USA 2020:Pageant at Graceland crowns winner Asya Branch from Elvis' home state

"I was in a room with 50 other women who I feel like are ambitious, are intelligent and are trying to do something for society that's bigger than themselves," she said.

After her placement in the top five Monday night, Lete said she's received messages from friends and strangers alike thanking her for her authenticity and willingness to be comfortable with who she is.

It's been almost a year since Lete was crowned Miss Indiana USA, and as she looks forward, Lete says she's waiting to see what God's plan is for her.

"I went in wanting to win, but I think God had something bigger and greater that's bound to come," Lete said. "I don't know what that is yet ... but I'm ready and prepared and excited."

https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2020/11/10/miss-usa-pageant-2020-miss-indiana-usa-alexis-lete-finishes-top-5/6244228002/