Aileen Cerchiara, a registered nurse and model with Colombian and Argentine roots, has been crowned Miss Florida USA 2026.

The Florida native has worked as a nurse since 2020 and holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Her journey to the crown reflects persistence: Cerchiara finished as first runner-up in the 2025 competition before returning to win the state title.

She will now represent Florida at Miss USA 2026. The national competition celebrates its 75th anniversary on August 27 at Miami’s Adrienne Arsht Center.

Cerchiara’s achievement brings Latino representation, healthcare leadership and a message of purpose to the national stage.

Source: Miami Herald, Miss Florida USA — https://missfloridausa.com/ and Aileen Cerchiara — https://aileencerchiara.com/

Photo credit: Miss Florida USA