“You can be the king, but watch the queen conquer.”
― Nicki Minaj
Deshauna Barber is Miss USA 2016! She won the title representing District of Columbia.
Deshauna Barber was born in Columbus, Georgia but due to her father’s military career, she relocated multiple times to several states, including; North Carolina, Nebraska, Minnesota, Virginia, and finally to her home, Washington D.C. After graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Management from Virginia State University, Deshauna accepted a position with the United States Department of Commerce where she is currently working as an IT Analyst. While working, Deshauna obtained her Master’s of Science degree in Management Information Systems and Services from University of Maryland University College.
Being the daughter of a retired Army Master Sergeant it is no surprise that Deshauna decided to follow in her father’s footsteps and join the Army while still attending undergraduate University. She commissioned as a Quartermaster Officer in 2011 and is currently a Logistics Commander for the 988th Quartermaster Detachment unit at Fort Meade, Maryland.
Deshauna loves to dance, hike, and enjoy quality time with her family. She is a big reptile lover and owns a 4-year old Ball Python named “Sinaya.”
Deshauna has a passion to serve and in particular, the men and women in the U.S. military, specifically focusing her platform on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) treatment for soldiers returning from deployments and suicide prevention in the Armed Forces. Deshauna has worked with numerous organizations such as CAUSE (Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services), the USO, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center volunteer program, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Henrico Mentorship program, Petersburg Feed The Homeless program, and many more.
As a proud member of the United States Army and the first Miss District of Columbia USA to serve in the military while holding the title, Deshauna is both honored and excited to have represented the Nation’s Capital at Miss USA and is so glad to to bring the crown home to Washington, D.C.!
Long may you reign Deshauna Barber, Congratulations!