Deborah Carthy became the second woman from Puerto Rico to win the Miss Universe title in 1985. While she was in college, she was selected Miss San Juan on March 22, 1985 and later Miss Puerto Rico on April 27, 1985. On July 15, 1985, she was crowned Miss Universe 1985 representing Puerto Rico in Miami, Florida. Although the results of the finale were disappointing to many, Deborah had an excellent year as the Miss Universe 1985. Aside from representing her home country in the Miss Universe pageant, and winning this title, Deborah graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Puerto Rico and obtained the Theater Medal, awarded to the most distinguished graduate. She majored in Theater Arts and Education.