An 18-year-old Colorado teen, Hilary Carol Cruz, was crowned Miss Teen USA 2007. Miss Teen Colorado Hilary Carol Cruz, who aspires to become an entertainment journalist received her crown from outgoing Miss Teen USA Katie Blair at the conclusion of the two-hour competition at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
Cruz said that in five years she hopes to have earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and landed a job with a TV entertainment news program. During her tenure as Miss Teen USA 2007, Hilary will continue to work with EFAA, Emergency Family Assistance Association, a charity that helps people in financial crisis one day become more self-sufficient. Hilary will also address students, girl and boy scout troops about how to make smart decisions, and achieve goals.
Judges for the pageant included Victoria's Secret model Selita Ebanks, actress Melissa Joan Hart, Miss Teen USA 2004 Shelley Hennig, actor Joey Lawrence and professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler. At Friday night's pageant contestants competed in swimsuit, evening gown and interview categories.
First runner-up in the competition was Miss New Jersey Teen USA Alyssa Campanella. The rest of the top five, in order, were Miss North Carolina Teen USA Kaitlin Coble, Miss South Carolina Teen USA Lauren Caitlin Upton and Miss West Virginia Teen USA Chelsea Welch.
Miss Maryland Teen USA Allison Farrow captured the photogenic award and Miss Mississippi Teen USA Anne Elise Parks won the congeniality award.
