The 2012 Miss America was crowned Saturday night (Jan. 14) in Las Vegas – Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler. She wore perhaps the most elegant evening gown, looking simple and chic in black with a lace bodice. She compared the top of her dress to Kate Middleton’s wedding dress.

For her talent, this 23-year-old from Kenosha, WI sang an Italian aria, with an absolutely gorgeous operatic voice. She also looked stunning in a red dress. And for her question in the Q&A portion, she was asked if Miss Americas should voice their political views. Laura gave a very diplomatic answer about how Miss America represents everyone and therefore should not thrust her views onto the public.

She also acts as a mentor to children with incarcerated parents, since she was one of those herself. You can see her below in a video that she made for the America’s Choice vote. It’s her Top 10 reasons why she should be Miss America and it’s pretty cute. Congratulations to Laura Kaeppeler!