Cynthia Moura Dias is a first-generation, Portuguese American who is fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. She is a 2020 University of Connecticut alumni with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences and earned her Master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology in May 2022 from the University of New Haven where she was President of their Society of Human Resources Management chapter. At only 22-years-old, Cynthia has international corporate experience; she currently works full-time at Bridgewater Associate, LP as a Senior Generalist, People Operations and was previously a Learning and Development Lead and HR Generalist Co-Op at Collins Aerospace.

 

She is an advocate for eating disorders and mental health awareness. This hits close to home as Cynthia is an eating disorder survivor herself. She plans to promote body positivity and support individuals and families affected by mental health and eating disorders. Cynthia is also a childhood literacy advocate, having volunteered with various community organizations over the past 14 years and starting her own literacy program in 2013, Reading Is Succeeding, donating over $500,000 in books to children across the state of Connecticut.

 

Cynthia is no stranger to the spotlight as she has modeled for Terani, Mac Duggal, Tony Bowls, and several other designers. She recently presented awards at the International Portuguese Music Awards and the Portuguese-American Music Awards. Cynthia has appeared in Hollywood and Bollywood films, performed with the Moscow Ballet, and is a competitive ballroom dancer. She also holds the Women’s 50m and 100m Hurdle Record at Wolcott High School.

 

She has received numerous awards for her academics and service including: President’s Volunteer Service Award by President Barack Obama, Prudential Spirit of Community Award Distinguished Finalist, the Secretary of the State’s Excellence in Citizenship Award, Leadership Scholarship from University of New Haven and University of Connecticut, and is a recipient of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents.

 

As Miss Connecticut USA, she plans to spread awareness and knowledge of eating disorders, inspire individuals to embrace and celebrate their differences, and promote the #PageantryReimagined mission and vision of Miss USA.