Miss USA 2023 Savannah Gankiewicz has expressed no regrets about accepting the crown following a shocking resignation saga earlier this year.

In May, Noelia Voigt, the original Miss USA 2023 titleholder, unexpectedly stepped down, citing mental health concerns. Voigt’s resignation letter also alleged a toxic work environment within the Miss USA organisation, claims that were denied by CEO Laylah Rose.

Just over a week after Voigt’s resignation, 28-year-old Savannah Gankiewicz was announced as the new Miss USA 2023. While the unexpected change was met with some initial pushback, Gankiewicz says she has no regrets about accepting the crown.

“I can’t speak on their experience, but I can only judge from mine and it has been nothing but great,” Gankiewicz told People magazine. “I’ve had the best time of my life, the best three months of my life. I’m honestly so grateful that I took this opportunity and I didn’t get scared to not take it.”

The initial negativity and backlash she faced after accepting the crown was worth it in the end, Gankiewicz said.

Just three months into her reign, Gankiewicz has embraced the role and utilized the platform to make a positive impact. “I use it as a tool to show that no one can bring you down,” she said, “you can just elevate yourself.”

While the transition was met with some initial criticism, Gankiewicz has since used her position to shed light on important causes, including the Maui wildfires and her own non-profit organization.

“I was able to shed light on the Maui wildfires and my non-profit,” she said, “I truly believe in the Miss USA organisation. It has given me the tools I need for success, the growth I’ve experienced during this. I feel confident and empowered, and that’s all I want other young women to feel.”

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Despite the initial concerns, Gankiewicz stated she had a responsibility to step up when the title became available. “My first thoughts when I heard about the resignation were with Voigt and her mental state. Then, I thought about how pageant protocol dictates that in the event the winner is unable, the first runner-up is supposed to step up.”

As she prepares to crown her successor in the coming months, Gankiewicz reflects on her tenure with a sense of pride and purpose, championing the Miss USA organization and the positive impact it has had on her personal growth and community outreach.