At the finale night held at the Onate Performance Art Center, New Mexico, Kristen Leyva was crowned the new Miss New Mexico USA 2018 by her predecessor Miss New Mexico USA 2017 Ashley Mora. Kristen is all set to represent New Mexico in the upcoming Miss USA 2018.
A mechanical engineer by profession, Kristen has created her own mentorship program called ‘Just ONE’ where she travels as an engineer to the elementary and middle schools all over her state to encourage young kids to peruse opportunities and careers in engineering.
From Las Cruces, New Mexico, Kristen performed exceedingly well at the grand finale which was held on 28th January 2018 at 3 PM. Looking stunning in her black and white gown at the time of her crowning, Kristen broke down into joyous tears and the look of happiness on her face was unparalleled.
Kristen also believes that any girl who dreams to be a beauty queen does not need a crown or a sash to be a queen. She says that a queen is someone who is confident in who she is and stays true to herself.
Miss USA 2017 Kara McCullough also graced the occasion of Miss New Mexico USA 2018 on 28th January 2018 where she cheered along with the thousands present in the crowd to show her support to the future reigning queens.
At the end of the event finale, Madison Turner was crowned Miss New Mexico Teen USA 2018 by her predecessor Miss New Mexico Teen USA 2017 Kalina Hamilton.