Deshauna Barber is a distinguished American motivational speaker, beauty pageant titleholder, and captain in the United States Army Reserve. Her career took a significant leap when she was crowned Miss USA 2016, making history as the first active military member to hold the title. During her reign, she passionately advocated for veterans’ issues, emphasizing the importance of mental health support for service members. Barber’s representation of the United States at the Miss Universe 2016 pageant, where she finished as a Top 9 finalist, further solidified her status as a role model for aspiring young women.

Before her pageantry success, Barber was commissioned as a quartermaster officer in 2011 and later became a logistics commander in the U.S. Army Reserve. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Virginia State University and a Master’s degree in Management Information Systems from the University of Maryland University College. Additionally, she has earned a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Norwich University, showcasing her commitment to education and leadership.

In 2020, Barber became the CEO of the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), where she continues to advocate for women veterans. Her work extends to teaching at Howard University and delivering motivational speeches on topics such as diversity, inclusion, and overcoming adversity. She has been featured on numerous platforms, including The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Good Morning America, where she shares her inspiring journey and insights.

Barber’s dedication to empowering women and advocating for veterans has led her to establish Women Veterans For Change in 2024, further amplifying the voices of women who have served in the military. Her impactful speeches and initiatives continue to inspire audiences worldwide, making her a sought-after speaker and leader in her field.