The winner of Miss USA 2024 attributes her victory to her family values, despite the pageant's tumultuous year.

Miss USA 2024 has been crowned!

At Stanford University, a data scientist and active-duty officer in the United States Army, Alma Cooper, won the title of Miss Michigan.

She told Planet Chronicle Digital that winning felt "surreal" because she had always dreamed of being one of the lucky women standing there, and to actually win was beyond her wildest imagination.

During the question portion, Cooper expressed her gratitude for the people who uplifted her in times of struggle and for the opportunity to be a part of a community of strong women. She reflected on the values she was raised on and how much they meant to her, and expressed her appreciation for the time it took to reach this point.

Cooper won by demonstrating both her physical attractiveness and her ability to answer the question, "How can we promote cultural understanding and respect?"

As a proud Afro-Latina woman, daughter of a migrant worker, and an officer in the United States Army, I am living the American Dream. My mother and I have taught me that my circumstances do not define my destiny, and that success can be achieved through demanding excellence. My personal motto is that success is accessible and can be achieved by chasing your dreams. By breaking down barriers, you can make the launch pad for your future.

WATCH: MISS USA 2024 ALMA COOPER DESCRIBES ANSWER THAT HELPED HER WIN CROWN

Co-host Garcelle Beauvias shared her excitement for the upcoming Miss USA 2024 competition, stating that it's not just about the beauty but also the dynamic and smart contestants. She believes that the girls are showcasing their future aspirations and desires to make a difference. Beauvias is looking forward to supporting them and having fun, acknowledging that there may be some drama, but it will be an awesome experience.

As a judge in the pageant, Lu Parker, Miss USA 1994 and journalist, disclosed her criteria for selecting the winner.

"I just thought about my family and the values I was raised on growing up and how much that meant to me."  — Alma Cooper, Miss USA 2024

"Parker stated that he is searching for a competitor who can compete on a global level with women worldwide, while also possessing confidence, beauty, and a dynamic shine. He emphasized that the final night's competition usually features five contestants who are on fire, and the one who stands out will ultimately win."

After Savannah Gankiewicz's brief reign as Miss USA 2023, Cooper will be crowned as the new Miss USA.

In May, Gankiewicz became the new Miss USA 2023 after Voigt resigned, and Srivastava, her counterpart in the teen competition, also resigned from her title.

Srivastava initially communicated her reasons for resigning in a more direct manner. In a statement on Instagram, she stated that after careful consideration, she had decided to resign because her personal values no longer aligned with the organization's direction.

In May, Voigt stated on Instagram that she resigned due to mental health reasons.

In a letter obtained by ABC News and other outlets, her reasons for quitting were later expanded upon, accusing the organization of promoting a toxic work culture and criticizing President and CEO Laylah Rose of the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA organizations.

In response to Voigt's resignation letter, Rose issued a statement strongly refuting the beauty queen's claims.

Before the competition, Rose stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that they always safeguard their delegates across the United States. All directors prioritize the safety of their delegates, and they will continue to do so. It is a job that requires dedication and a strong role model. Therefore, for them, it is crucial to select the right role model and the right person who is prepared and willing to take on this responsibility.

Mental health significantly impacts all aspects of our lives, including our careers, education, relationships, family, and friendships. Facing challenges in these areas can help us grow stronger and prepare for the next set of obstacles. However, building resilient platforms and utilizing available resources, such as those created by women, can greatly aid in overcoming these challenges and achieving our passions.

As Miss USA 2022 and a correspondent during the competition, Morgan Romano acknowledged the pressure can be overwhelming, despite her own positive experiences.

"Romano told Planet Chronicle Digital that being Miss USA is a mentally challenging year. Despite having a great experience, the constant exposure to social media comments and criticism can lead to mental health issues. It's not easy to handle such scrutiny, and Romano commended her fellow Miss USA sisters for prioritizing their mental health and setting boundaries."

She stated, "I receive social media comments from the public, but I don't let them affect me because they're just projecting their own feelings onto me. These comments don't define me, and I know who I am. I'm proud of who I am, so I don't let them get to me."

Addie Carver, the newly crowned Miss Teen USA 2024, stated that her experience was positive.

"Being in this role is a huge responsibility not just for me, but for other young girls who look up to me. I plan to use this opportunity to make a positive impact and inspire other girls to participate in the program."

Beauvais also offered advice to contestants about being in the public eye.

"The "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star stated that while people can express their opinions about you online, you cannot respond to the negativity. It is important to remember your identity and not let criticism affect you."