Carole Anne-Marie Gist made history in 1990 when she was named as the first Black Miss USA beauty pageant winner. Today is Gist’s birthday and we look back at her life and career.
Gist was born May 8, 1969 and raised primarily in Detroit. The Cass Technical High School honor student and Northwood University graduate made her first big splash in pageantry by winning the Miss Michigan title in 1989, leading to her entry to the Miss USA competition. In March of 1990, she captured the title and the hearts of America with her charm, dazzling looks and 5-foot-11-inch frame, making her the tallest Miss USA winner at the time as well. (READ MORE)
