MISS CONNECTICUT USA 2019

Photo Credit: Fadil Berisha  Photography

MEET THE 2019 MISS CONNECTICUT USA®

Acacia Courtney

Acacia Courtney is a 26 year old graduate of Fordham University with a degree in Communications and a minor in Theology.She currently works as an on-air analyst and reporter in the world of horse racing, covering the biggest events in the country, and the world, for networks such as Fox Sports and MSG Network.

Acacia's love of horses extends far beyond her career, as nearly 10 years ago Acacia founded the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Racing for Home, Inc., which works to retrain and give a second career to ex-racehorses after their racing days are over. Also an accomplished dancer, Acacia studied with the Joffrey Ballet School and American Ballet Theatre, was a nationally ranked ballroom dancer, and performed in the opening number of the Victoria's Secret Fashion show. 

MEET THE 2019 MISS TEEN USA®

Kaliegh Garris

Kaliegh Garris of Connecticut is a dual-enrolled student finishing her senior year at Joseph A. Foran High School and the Educational Center for the Arts where she studies theater. When she's not in the classroom, the 18-year-old enjoys performing on stage as a competitive dancer. 

Kaliegh is passionate about her personal movement, "We Are People 1st," which she started in honor of one of her older sisters who has cerebral palsy and lives with multiple disabilities. Through her program, Kaliegh educates others on ways to respectfully speak to individuals with health conditions and disabilities, and has been recognized for her work by the Department of Disabled Services. As Miss Teen USA, Kaliegh will visit more schools in Connecticut and beyond to spread the message of using people first language.

Kaliegh will attend Southern Connecticut State University in the fall and with an interest in medicine, plans to concentrate on obtaining her nursing degree.