Miss Gainesville Paris Richardson crowned Miss Florida 2025

Press release from Miss Gainesville and Miss Ocala Scholarship Competition

LAKELAND, Fla. – Paris Richardson, a recently graduated UF student, has been crowned Miss Florida 2025 at the annual Miss Florida competition held in Lakeland on June 28. Representing the title of Miss Gainesville, Richardson competed against 37 other outstanding young women from across the state and emerged victorious, earning the opportunity to represent Florida at the annual Miss America
Competition this September in Orlando.

A graduate of the University of Florida, Richardson impressed judges and audiences alike with her acrobatic dance talent, compelling community service initiative, “C.R.O.W.N. of Health,” and thoughtful responses during the interview portion.

C.R.O.W.N. of Health focuses on bridging the gap between doctors and patients — i.e., advancing health equity, one community at a time, a cause she has championed since she was in high school.

“I am so grateful for this opportunity to be the next Miss Florida, and I am so thankful for the Miss Gainesville and Miss Ocala organization for giving me the tools and preparation that I needed to walk confidently across the stage.”

In addition to the title, Richardson earned over $24,000 in scholarship winnings, which will support her future education goals. Richardson will now begin a year of service as Miss Florida, traveling across the state as an ambassador for the Miss America Opportunity, promoting her community service initiative, and preparing for the Miss America competition, set to take place in September in Orlando.