By Anna Corbett, Opinion Editor
Alexis Smith is a Newman alumna who has made a big impact since graduating in 2023.
Most recently, she competed as Miss Kansas in the Miss American pageant, which was held last month in Orlando.
Smith now works as a cardiothoracic ICU nurse for Ascension in Wichita and says Newman helped her get where she is.
“My years at Newman while in nursing school taught me how to persevere and balance a work life,” she said. “Though being a queen is amazing, it is still important to me to find time and show up as my best self for my family and friends.”
Smith was crowned Miss Kansas in 2024 after winning the Miss Wichita title in 2023. She has been doing pageants since she was a baby and became more serious at the age of 6.
After being crowned Miss Kansas, she was on to one of the biggest pageants of all: Miss America. Although she didn't get a spot in the top five at the pageant, she said she is still proud of her experience.
“It was truly a surreal opportunity,” she said. “I grew up watching the Miss America pageant, so I was very intentional with taking in every moment of it. From the rehearsals to the events to being on stage, it was incredible.”
Smith made national headlines at the Miss Kansas Pageant in 2024 when she mentioned on stage that her abuser was in the audience. She is a survivor of domestic violence, she said, and she uses her platform to advocate for those who can't speak up.
“Many people questioned where I found courage, but it wasn’t led with courage. It was led with frustration, fear, and disappointment,” Smith said. “The outcome has been bittersweet, as I have had the amazing opportunities to travel our nation and share my story.”
Smith decided to retire from pageants after Miss America.
“I cannot think of a better way to end my pageant journey,” she said.
PHOTO: Courtesy, Newman Bond
