About Miss United States 2011

Miss United States 2011 Ashley Smith is a graduate of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA with a B.S. in Communications and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Journalism at Regent University. She has been employed by the Department of Defense as a Management Analyst for Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic. In addition, Ashley has worked as an anchorwoman and reporter for WCTV-48, the local education and municipal television station for the City of Chesapeake. She has also served as Minister of Music at First Baptist Church Gilmerton in Chesapeake, VA.

Ashley has participated in pageants for the past seven years. In addition to being named Miss United States 2011, she has served as Miss Virginia Beach 2006, Miss Virginia Peanut 2007, Miss Norfolk 2008, Miss Chesapeake 2009, Miss Hampton Roads 2010, and Miss Virginia United States 2011.

Her personal platform is "Breast Cancer: It's Not Just Hereditary", and she has been active in promoting it throughout the community. She has served as a Board member of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Chesapeake.

In an effort to recognize and honor breast cancer survivor's unlimited faith, determination and perseverance, in October 2008 she organized the inaugural 'Queen of PINK' (Passionately Igniting the Need for Knowledge) Pageant showcasing each breast cancer survivor/fighter contestant's significant contributions to cancer awareness in her community.

Ashley has received several prestigious awards, including selection for the 2012 edition of "Who's Who Among American Colleges and Universities" and being selected as one of Inside Business Magazine's "Top 40 Under Forty" Honorees for 2011. She is a member of several organizations and has been a keynote speaker for services, schools, and community programs.

As Miss United States, she will travel over 26,000 miles nationwide promoting her platform and the touching the lives of many. Due to her efforts and passion for breast cancer awareness, Ashley will leave a lasting legacy on the Miss United States Organization by formulating a partnership with the American Cancer Society as the official platform program of Miss United States for years to come! She will serve as a National Ambassador for the American Cancer Society throughout her year of service.