Miss USA and Miss Teen USA Announce New Leadership Under Thom Brodeur

September 15, 2025 – Miami, FL marked a turning point in the history of American pageantry. The Miss Universe Organization has officially transferred the exclusive license rights to Miss USA® and Miss Teen USA® to BDE MISS USA, LLC, led by Brodeur Beauty founder and CEO Thom Brodeur. Brodeur will now serve as President and CEO of both organizations.

With this transition, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA enter what Brodeur has described as a "new era," one rooted in technology, media, and fan engagement. The pageants, with legacies spanning 74 years and 42 years respectively, will continue their traditions while embracing new innovations designed to connect with a global audience.

Leadership Team Announced

Brodeur will lead alongside an accomplished team of industry experts:

• Laura Clark & Elise Banks-Lovely – Co-National Directors

• Gretchen Polhemus-Jensen (former Miss USA) – Strategic Partnerships

• Holly Lynch (CEO, Queen Beauty Network) – Production Lead

• Mara Martin (VYRAL PR) – PR and Communications

• Richie Walls & Brando Eaton (SEEN Entertainment) – Talent Development and Management

• Mackenzie Kern (Miss ICON Media) – Social Media Strategy and Content

Additional senior leadership will be named in the coming weeks.

Upcoming Pageants in Reno

Brodeur also confirmed details for the 2025 Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants:

• Location: Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, Nevada

• Dates: October 18–24, 2025

• Finals: Miss Teen USA on October 23, Miss USA on October 24

Fans and families can already book hotel accommodations through this link. Contestant rooms have been secured at no cost to state directors or families.

Brodeur explained his choice of Reno with a focus on symbolism and renewal:

“Reno is where Miss USA and Miss Teen USA were held when some of the hurt began for this brand we love, and the queens we’ve supported. Life has taught me that sometimes you go back to the source of the wound to begin the healing process. That’s why. We’re going back. New day. New chapter.”

What’s Next

According to Brodeur, all official updates will be communicated directly through his verified social media until the organization fully transitions its digital assets. He emphasized the importance of clarity and transparency as deadlines for state directors and contestants approach.

This leadership change comes with the promise of PageantFans™️, a digital platform that will integrate fan engagement and media in new ways. The initiative is part of a broader effort to reestablish Miss USA and Miss Teen USA as cultural icons in the global pageant space.