Laura KirkPatrick

Born Laura Sioux Kirkpatrick in Stanford, Kentucky, on June 12, 1989, Laura’s early life included working on her family’s farm, where tending to cattle was a primary responsibility. She pursued an art major at Eastern Kentucky University, becoming the first in her family to attend college. Before her breakthrough in modeling, she also worked as a waitress. Her journey into the public eye began when she applied for America’s Next Top Model, a decision she made after her grandmother suggested trying out for the “petite edition” cycle. Despite initially missing final exams for the show, her determination and distinctive personality captivated audiences and judges alike. She often openly discussed her dyslexia throughout the competition, particularly when it presented challenges with tasks like reading teleprompters.

Kirkpatrick gained widespread recognition as the runner-up of Cycle 13 of America’s Next Top Model in 2009. Her strong personality, noted as a “country girl” amidst other contestants, made her a fan favorite. Although she did not win the cycle, she was later voted the show’s fan favorite, which earned her a six-month, rent-free apartment in New York City to further her modeling career. Following this, she received representation offers from several modeling agencies, including Tyra Banks’ Bankable Productions. She also made an appearance on The Tyra Banks Show. Her career progressed with diverse opportunities, including charity work for 2010 Haiti earthquake relief and features in fashion magazines.

In 2011, Kirkpatrick returned to the America’s Next Top Model franchise for Cycle 17: All Stars, where she placed fourth. During this season, she developed her personal brand around the word “loveable,” creating a perfume called “Love” and a music video for her song “Southern Sweet Girl.” Beyond modeling, Kirkpatrick established The Beautiful Minds, a dyslexia foundation that organizes runway shows and events to promote dyslexia education. She has also ventured into fashion design with her clothing line, Grumbage, and continues an active modeling career under the name Laura Sioux Cianciolo, balancing her professional life with being a single mother.