Bridgeport’s Gracia Knight Reaches Top 20 at Miss Teen USA
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — Harrison County’s Gracia Knight reached the Top 20 at Miss Teen USA Wednesday night, representing West Virginia on a national stage alongside contestants from across the country.
Knight, a Bridgeport High School senior and the reigning Miss West Virginia Teen USA, competed in the national finals in Miami after several days of pageant events and preliminary competition.
The competition included representatives from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Knight advanced into the Top 20 before the field was narrowed to 10 finalists.
Kiran Reddy of Georgia was ultimately crowned Miss Teen USA 2026. Raquel Olea of Arkansas finished as first runner-up, while Elisa Akin of New York was second runner-up.
Following the competition, Knight reflected on the experience in a social media post, pointing back to a part of her life that has remained central throughout her pageant journey: her faith. Knight thanked Jesus for placing her in the position and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent West Virginia on the national stage.
The message was consistent with the way Knight has approached her year as Miss West Virginia Teen USA.
She is the founder and president of a local chapter of Girls With Glory, a faith-based organization that brings young women together through faith, friendship and leadership. Knight also volunteers through Simpson Creek Baptist Church.
Her run at Miss Teen USA came just more than two months after she won the Miss West Virginia Teen USA title at the state competition in Charleston.
Knight had a strong performance there as well, winning interview, activewear and evening gown. She also received the Contestants’ Choice Award, the inaugural Cora King Miss Congeniality Award and leadership honors.
Away from the pageant stage, Knight maintains a 4.25 GPA at Bridgeport High School, serves as senior class vice president and is a member of the National Honor Society and French Honor Society. She has also participated in softball, dance and modeling and has served as a Teen State Ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Her Top 20 finish Wednesday placed the Bridgeport student among the final group of contestants recognized at one of the country’s largest teen pageants and capped a national competition in which she carried both the West Virginia sash and a Harrison County connection to Miami.
Knight will continue serving as Miss West Virginia Teen USA during the coming year through appearances, community involvement and other events across the state.
