Good News
Neptune, N.J. native Ivy Harrington earns first runner-up at Miss USA
The Neptune native secured the honor last weekend, returning New Jersey to the Top 5 for the first time since 2017.
Miss New Jersey Ivy Harrington became Miss USA’s First Runner-Up at the 74th pageant in Reno, Nevada.
The Neptune native secured the honor last weekend, returning New Jersey to the Top 5 for the first time since 2017.
2025 marked New Jersey’s 21st overall placement since the pageant began in 1952.
It also represented the state’s third time reaching First Runner-Up.
Miss New Jersey Ivy Harrington’s Inspiring Answer Resonates
During the competition, Harrington faced the question: “Imagine you have the attention of every 15-year-old girl for sixty seconds, what do you say?”
She responded, “Young lady, you are the architect of your identity.”
She explained that she runs a workshop called “MVP: Most Valuable Pivot.”
Because of this program, she teaches young athletes to build identities beyond their jerseys.
Career Milestones
Harrington previously competed in Miss New Jersey in 2020 and 2022.
She advanced as a semifinalist in 2020 and then as fourth runner-up in 2022.
She graduated from Neptune Township High School in 2013 with varsity letters in basketball and track.
After high school, she attended Morgan State University in Baltimore, where she played basketball.
She graduated in 2017 with a degree in Journalism.
Her career includes communications roles with the New Jersey Department of Education and the West Windsor-Plainsboro School District.
Miss New Jersey Ivy Harrington’s Workshop and Future Plans
Now holding her title, Harrington plans to expand her workshop, Most Valuable Pivot.
The program helps female athletes develop identities beyond sports.
She also hopes to create a platform blending athletics, lifestyle, and pageantry.
Because of her vision, she signaled readiness to eventually step back from the pageant world.
Legacy and Impact
With her runner-up placement, Harrington strengthened New Jersey’s record at Miss USA.
She highlighted resilience, mentorship, and empowerment throughout her journey.
Because of her message, she inspired audiences and judges alike.
Her success continues shaping New Jersey’s presence on the national stage.
Real stories. Real impact. Straight to your inbox. Join thousands others. Click here to subscribe to our newsletter today!
Follow us on Facebook, X, TikTok, Instagram
Memphis man sues city, police over photo taken of his deceased mother
Asbury Park High School: History Seminar
New Jersey police reach $4 million settlement with children of woman killed by ex-husband, a former police officer
Druski new parody mocking conservative women sparks debate
Detroit man convicted of sexually assaulting, killing teen found dead in prison 2 weeks after sentencing
Kendrick Johnson’s parents file $10B lawsuit against federal judges
GoFundMe launched after Alabama mother is fatally shot by husband hours after giving birth
Shaquille O’Neal pays for funeral costs for 12‑year‑old Jada West, Georgia officials say
Family demands justice after Baltimore County man dies after being punched by police officer in violent encounter
12‑year‑old Georgia girl dies after fight outside school bus, family says she was bullied
OWN greenlights first-ever ‘Belle Collective’ spinoff Belle Collective: Birmingham
Hazel Scott’s legacy returns to Harlem in free outdoor film screening
Olympic Gymnast Frederick Richard sets world record, raises $50K for Ugandan youth
Renee Ferguson, trailblazing investigative journalist, dies at 75
“AfroPoP Digital Shorts” returns to the land with “Sweet Samara,” climate and abolitionist film
-
Community2 weeks agoShaquille O’Neal pays for funeral costs for 12‑year‑old Jada West, Georgia officials say
-
Education1 week agoAsbury Park High School: Crossover event esports and history with Tina Watson
-
Social Justice2 days agoNew Jersey police reach $4 million settlement with children of woman killed by ex-husband, a former police officer
-
Social Justice4 days agoJury awards California woman $15 million after supervisor called her n-word
-
Culture2 weeks agoWu‑Tang Clan concert film to screen at The Pinhook as part of Wu‑Tang Wednesday Series
-
Social Justice7 days agoFamily pleads for Trump’s help bringing severely ill son home from Chinese prison
-
Crime & Justice4 days agoDetroit man convicted of sexually assaulting, killing teen found dead in prison 2 weeks after sentencing
-
Culture3 days agoDruski new parody mocking conservative women sparks debate
-
Social Justice2 weeks agoDOJ moves to dismiss criminal case against ex-officers charged for role in Breonna Taylor’s death
-
In Memoriam1 week agoIn Memoriam: Beloved Showtime at the Apollo co-host Kiki Shepard