Remembering Cheslie Kryst: Miss USA 2019's Enduring Legacy and Impact

Nov 5, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 147 views

Remembering Cheslie Kryst: Miss USA 2019’s Enduring Legacy and Impact

The world mourned the loss of Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019, a woman of exceptional talent, intelligence, and grace. Her life, though tragically cut short, left an indelible mark on the beauty pageant world and beyond. This article delves into the remarkable achievements of Cheslie Kryst, her impactful advocacy, and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.

A Brilliant Mind and a Multifaceted Career

Cheslie Kryst’s journey began far from the glitz and glamour of the pageant stage. She was a woman of remarkable intellect, graduating cum laude from the Honors College at the University of South Carolina with a degree in marketing and human resources. Not content with just one field of expertise, she went on to earn both a law degree and an MBA from Wake Forest University. This impressive academic foundation paved the way for a successful legal career. As an attorney, she focused on civil litigation, advocating for clients and fighting for justice. Her dedication to her profession was evident in her commitment to pro bono work, demonstrating a genuine desire to use her skills to help those in need. Cheslie wasn’t just a lawyer; she was a champion for underrepresented communities, a voice for the voiceless, and a fierce advocate for fairness and equality. Her legal background uniquely positioned her to address issues of social justice and inequality, a role she embraced with passion and purpose. Beyond her legal pursuits, Cheslie also dabbled in the world of fashion, launching a style blog called ‘White Collar Glam,’ showcasing her impeccable taste and offering fashion advice to professional women. This blog further highlighted her ability to excel in multiple domains and connect with a diverse audience. The blog was not just about clothes; it was about empowering women to feel confident and stylish in their professional lives. Her dedication to both her legal career and her passion for fashion demonstrated her incredible work ethic and her commitment to pursuing her passions. Cheslie Kryst embodied the idea that women can be intelligent, successful, and stylish all at the same time. Her ability to balance her career with her personal interests inspired many young women.

Conquering the Crown: Miss USA 2019

In 2019, Cheslie Kryst achieved a significant milestone, captivating the nation and winning the title of Miss USA. Her victory was not just a personal triumph but also a symbol of changing beauty standards and the evolving role of women in society. At 28 years old, she was the oldest woman to ever win the Miss USA crown, shattering age barriers and proving that beauty and intelligence are timeless. Her victory was celebrated as a victory for women of all ages and backgrounds. During the competition, Cheslie stood out not only for her striking beauty but also for her intelligence, eloquence, and poise. Her answers to the judges’ questions were thoughtful and insightful, reflecting her deep understanding of current events and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world. She spoke passionately about issues such as criminal justice reform, equal pay for women, and mental health awareness, using her platform to advocate for causes she believed in. Her win was particularly significant because it marked a historic year for black women in pageantry. For the first time ever, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss America, Miss Universe, and Miss World were all black women. This unprecedented achievement was a testament to the growing diversity and inclusivity in the beauty pageant world and a celebration of black beauty and excellence. Cheslie’s reign as Miss USA was marked by grace, intelligence, and a genuine desire to use her platform for good. She traveled across the country, speaking at schools, community events, and corporate conferences, inspiring young people to pursue their dreams and to make a positive difference in the world. She used her platform to advocate for causes she believed in, including criminal justice reform and mental health awareness. Her reign as Miss USA was not just about wearing a crown; it was about using her voice to amplify important messages and to empower others to do the same.

A Powerful Voice for Mental Health Awareness

One of Cheslie Kryst’s most significant contributions was her unwavering advocacy for mental health awareness. Openly sharing her own struggles with depression, she courageously challenged the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraged others to seek help. In a powerful essay for Allure magazine, Cheslie wrote candidly about the pressures she faced as a public figure and the importance of prioritizing mental well-being. She spoke about the unrealistic expectations placed on women, particularly in the beauty industry, and the toll that these expectations can take on mental health. Her honesty and vulnerability resonated with many people who were struggling with similar issues, and her words provided comfort and hope. Cheslie’s advocacy extended beyond her personal experiences. She actively partnered with organizations dedicated to mental health support and education, using her platform to raise awareness and to promote access to resources. She understood that mental health is just as important as physical health and that it is crucial to break down the barriers that prevent people from seeking help. Cheslie believed that everyone deserves to have access to mental health care, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. She worked tirelessly to advocate for policies that would improve access to mental health services and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Her impact on the mental health community was profound, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to speak out and to seek help. Cheslie Kryst’s bravery in sharing her own struggles with depression helped to normalize conversations about mental health and to encourage others to prioritize their well-being. Her message was clear: it is okay to not be okay, and it is important to seek help when you need it. Her unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy made her a role model for countless people, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to prioritize their mental well-being.

Beyond the Crown: A Legacy of Inspiration

Although Cheslie Kryst’s life was tragically cut short, her impact continues to resonate deeply. She leaves behind a legacy of intelligence, grace, and unwavering advocacy. She inspired countless young women to pursue their dreams, to challenge societal expectations, and to use their voices to make a positive difference in the world. Cheslie was a role model for aspiring lawyers, beauty queens, and anyone who wanted to make a positive impact on the world. She proved that it is possible to be intelligent, beautiful, and compassionate all at the same time. Her legacy extends beyond her achievements and accolades. It is rooted in the way she treated others, the kindness she showed to everyone she met, and the passion she had for making the world a better place. Cheslie’s impact on the beauty pageant world was significant. She helped to redefine what it means to be a beauty queen, showing that it is possible to be both beautiful and intelligent, both glamorous and socially conscious. She challenged the traditional stereotypes of beauty pageants and used her platform to advocate for important causes. She was a role model for a new generation of beauty queens, inspiring them to use their platforms to make a positive difference in the world. In the wake of her passing, many people have come forward to share stories of Cheslie’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering support. These stories serve as a testament to the impact she had on so many lives. Her legacy will continue to inspire others to live with purpose, to advocate for what they believe in, and to make a positive difference in the world. Cheslie Kryst’s life was a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference, no matter how big or small. Her memory will live on, not only in the hearts of those who knew her personally but also in the countless lives she touched through her advocacy, her intelligence, and her grace. She was a true inspiration, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Remembering Cheslie: How to Seek Help

The loss of Cheslie Kryst serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for accessible resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, please know that you are not alone. There are numerous resources available to provide support and guidance. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available ²⁴⁄₇ at 988. This free and confidential service provides support to people in distress and can connect you with local resources. The Crisis Text Line is another valuable resource that allows you to connect with a trained crisis counselor via text message. Simply text HOME to 741741 to access immediate support. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a wide range of programs and resources, including support groups, educational materials, and advocacy initiatives. NAMI also has a helpline that you can call for information and support. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a national helpline that can connect you with local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Remember, there are people who care about you and want to support you through difficult times. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of these resources or to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. By working together, we can break down the stigma surrounding mental illness and create a more supportive and compassionate world for everyone. Cheslie Kryst’s legacy will continue to inspire us to prioritize our mental well-being and to support those who are struggling. Let us honor her memory by continuing the conversation about mental health and by providing access to the resources that people need to thrive.

Cheslie Kryst’s life was a beacon of brilliance, advocacy, and grace. Her memory will continue to inspire and empower for years to come.