Elle Smith is an American journalist, model, and beauty pageant titleholder best known for being crowned Miss USA 2021. Born in Springfield, Ohio, on June 19, 1998, Smith made history as only the second woman from Kentucky to win the prestigious national title. Before her pageantry success, she established herself as a dedicated broadcast journalist, graduating from the University of Kentucky and working as an on-air reporter for WHAS-TV in Louisville. During her reign, she reached the Top 10 at Miss Universe 2021 and has since used her platform to advocate for cervical cancer awareness and environmental sustainability.
Early Life and Family Background
Elle Smith was born Ellen Elizabeth Smith to parents Samuel Clayborne and Lydia Smith. Growing up in Springfield, Ohio, her biracial heritage played a significant role in her identity, with a Black father and a White mother.
Her family has deep roots in the South; her ancestors were once enslaved on a plantation in Kentucky before migrating to Ohio after the American Civil War. This historical connection to Kentucky eventually influenced her decision to attend university and represent the state in pageantry.
Education and Academic Achievements
Smith attended Shawnee High School, where she was an honors student known for her involvement in the arts and athletics. She was a member of the choir, orchestra, and drama club, and she also played competitive volleyball.
In 2016, she moved to Lexington to enroll at the University of Kentucky (UK). She graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Political Science. During her time at UK, she was highly active as the vice president of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and a member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority.
Journalism Career at WHAS-TV
Following her graduation, Smith landed a role as a multimedia journalist at WHAS-TV, an ABC affiliate in Louisville, Kentucky. She was responsible for covering news across Southern Indiana and the Louisville metropolitan area.
Her professional background provided her with a unique edge in the pageant world. As an on-air reporter, she was already accustomed to live cameras, interviewing strangers, and thinking quickly under pressure—skills that are essential for the Miss USA “on-stage question” segment.
The Road to Miss USA 2021
Remarkably, Elle Smith had never competed in a beauty pageant before entering Miss Kentucky USA 2021. She was inspired to try pageantry to develop herself personally and professionally, using her first “big girl job” salary to pay for her entry fees.
She competed as Miss Germantown and won the state title in May 2021. Just six months later, she represented Kentucky at the Miss USA pageant in Tulsa, Oklahoma. On November 29, 2021, she was crowned the winner, succeeding Asya Branch of Mississippi.
Miss Universe and Global Impact
As Miss USA, Smith traveled to Eilat, Israel, in December 2021 to compete in the 70th Miss Universe pageant. Her performance was stellar, earning her a spot in the Top 10 out of 80 contestants from around the world.
One of her most memorable moments was her national costume, which paid homage to her journalism roots. She wore a stunning outfit inspired by an Emmy Award, symbolizing the intersection of the media industry and the glamour of pageantry.
Personal Stats and Measurements
As a professional model represented by top agencies like The Source Models in Miami, Elle Smith maintains a physical profile suited for high-fashion and commercial work.
| Attribute | Measurement |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Eyes | Hazel |
| Waist | 26 in |
| Hips | 37.5 in |
| Shoe Size | 9.5 (US) |
| Dress Size | 2-4 (US) |
Advocacy and Philanthropy
Throughout her reign and beyond, Smith has focused on several key social issues. She has been a vocal advocate for the National Cervical Cancer Coalition, promoting early detection and education.
Additionally, she uses her platform to discuss sustainability. During the Miss USA final, she famously answered a question about corporate environmental responsibility, suggesting that businesses must adopt green energy at a macro level while individuals focus on reducing and recycling at a micro level.
Practical Information and Planning
For those interested in following Elle Smith’s career or pursuing a similar path in journalism and pageantry, the following logistical details are relevant.
Social Media: She is highly active on Instagram under the handle @ellesmithtv, where she shares career updates and modeling portfolio work.
Agency Contact: For professional bookings, she is managed by NV Models & Talent and The Source Models.
Public Appearances: Smith frequently returns to the University of Kentucky for alumni events and journalism workshops.
What to Expect: Fans can expect a blend of professional journalism content and high-fashion editorial modeling. She remains a role model for aspiring Black journalists.
Tips for Aspiring Pageant Contestants: Smith emphasizes that “pageantry is a marathon, not a sprint” and encourages newcomers to leverage their professional skills, such as public speaking and community service, to stand out.
FAQs
Who is Elle Smith?
Elle Smith is a journalist and the winner of the Miss USA 2021 pageant. She is known for her work at WHAS-TV and her Top 10 finish at Miss Universe.
Where is Elle Smith from?
She was born in Springfield, Ohio, but represented Kentucky in the Miss USA pageant after moving there for college and her journalism career.
What did Elle Smith major in?
She graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in broadcast journalism and a minor in political science.
How tall is Elle Smith?
Elle Smith stands at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
Was Miss USA 2021 her first pageant?
Yes, Miss Kentucky USA 2021 was the very first pageant she ever entered, and she went on to win both the state and national titles in her first year.
Is Elle Smith still a reporter?
After her reign as Miss USA ended in late 2022, she moved into professional modeling and high-level media appearances, while maintaining her identity as a journalist.
What was her Miss Universe national costume?
She wore an outfit designed to look like an Emmy Award, celebrating her professional career in broadcast journalism.
Who are Elle Smith’s parents?
Her parents are Samuel Clayborne and Lydia Smith. Her father is a photographer, which contributed to her comfort in front of the camera.
What sorority was Elle Smith in?
She was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi (ADPi) sorority at the University of Kentucky.
What is Elle Smith doing now in 2026?
As of early 2026, Smith continues to work as a professional model and media personality, often appearing as a host and advocate for various social causes.
Where can I follow Elle Smith?
The best place to follow her is on Instagram (@ellesmithtv) or her official professional website for modeling updates.
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