The 20-year-old Boston University student won the title at the annual pageant in Las Vegas.
Miss Rhode Island Olivia Culpo was named Miss USA 2012 at a ceremony in Las Vegas on Sunday night.
The 20-year-old Boston University student was chosen by a panel of judges from a field of 51 contestants at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.
In the final round, the Cranston, R.I., native was faced with the most difficult question of the night: Would it be fair for a transgender contestant to be named Miss Universe? Culpo never stumbled as she embraced the Miss Universe Organization's recent decision to admit transgender contestants.
The annual beauty pageant was broadcast live on NBC.