A shining star from Bolivar, Missouri, is capturing hearts across the state and soon, the nation. On the evening of May 11, 2025, in the spotlight of The Mansion Theater in Branson, Shae Smith was crowned Miss Missouri USA 2025. The energy in the room was electric as the 21-year-old University of Missouri student gracefully accepted the title, representing not only her hometown but the spirit, ambition, and poise of young women across the Show-Me State.
Shae, who competed as Miss Springfield USA, stood out among 21 exceptional contestants with her elegance, confidence, and genuine passion for community impact. She was crowned by outgoing titleholder Ashleigh Bedwell in a moment that was both emotional and empowering. With this prestigious win, Shae will go on to represent Missouri on the national stage at Miss USA 2025 later this year.
Pageantry is not new to Shae. Her journey began in 2019 when she earned the title of Miss Missouri’s Outstanding Teen. She later wore the crown of Miss Missouri Teen USA 2022 and placed as first runner-up in Miss Missouri USA 2024—a testament to her unwavering dedication and growth.
Outside the pageant world, Shae is a health sciences major with a minor in business administration at the University of Missouri, where she also dances as part of the university’s Golden Girls. She is a passionate advocate for scoliosis awareness, drawing from her personal experience of undergoing spinal surgery as a teenager. Her advocacy has led her to raise tens of thousands of dollars for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and author a children’s book to help others facing similar challenges.
Now, as Miss Missouri USA 2025, Shae is preparing for the next chapter in her journey—representing Missouri with pride, purpose, and poise at Miss USA. Whether on stage or in service, Shae embodies the best of what it means to be a Missouri woman: resilient, driven, and full of heart.
We’ll be cheering her on every step of the way.
Follow Shae’s journey on Instagram at @shae.smith.
Photo Credit Shae Smith Facebook and Instagram