From Clark Atlanta University to the Miss USA Stage: The Journey of Acacia McBride ’20

For Clark Atlanta University alumna Acacia McBride, the journey from a small town in Mississippi to the Miss USA stage is a story of perseverance, purpose, and the courage to pursue opportunities beyond what she once imagined possible.

A 2020 graduate of Clark Atlanta University, McBride earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass media arts. Today, she is Miss California USA 2026 and preparing to represent California at Miss USA, carrying with her the lessons, confidence, and Panther spirit she developed during her time at CAU.

For McBride, the Miss California USA crown represents the fulfillment of a dream, but the journey to the title began years earlier.

A Dream That Led Her to Clark Atlanta University

Long before she wore the Miss California USA crown, McBride’s pursuit of the pageant dream encouraged her to envision a life beyond her hometown in Mississippi. Her pageant coach, who later became her mentor, challenged her to dream bigger and explore opportunities she had not previously imagined for herself.

That encouragement led McBride to visit Clark Atlanta University, where she immediately knew she had found a place to call home.

“Attending Clark Atlanta changed the trajectory of my life,” McBride said. “It gave me the confidence to step outside of my comfort zone, become independent, and believe that I belonged in spaces I once thought were out of reach.”

Her journey to CAU began even before she enrolled. McBride credits Dr. Cameisha Clark with helping guide her through the admissions process and believing in her potential. She also recognizes the impact of Tiana Griggs, Dr. Clark’s sister, and others who invested in her development along the way.

“I wouldn't be where I am today without people like her and her sister, Tiana Griggs, who took the time to pour into me,” McBride said.

Finding Community and Confidence at CAU

Coming from a small town in Mississippi, McBride’s experience at CAU broadened her perspective and challenged her to envision new possibilities for her future.

“Once I got to CAU, I found so much more than an education,” McBride said. “I found community, culture, and a sense of belonging that came from being surrounded by people who looked like me and expected excellence from one another.”

Her experience at CAU also helped her find her voice, become more independent, and develop into the leader she is today. The university’s influence extended beyond her personal growth, inspiring her to reach back and create opportunities for others, just as members of the CAU community had done for her.

Beyond Graduation: A New Chapter in Los Angeles

After graduating in 2020, McBride entered an uncertain new chapter during the COVID-19 pandemic. She ultimately made the bold decision to relocate to Los Angeles and continue pursuing her dreams.

“This journey has taught me that anything you want is only alignment away,” McBride said. “Being crowned Miss California USA is incredibly meaningful to me, but what’s even more meaningful is the woman I've become because I had the courage to keep saying yes to the next opportunity, even when it felt uncertain.”

Her experiences with rejection have also shaped how she views success and timing. For young people pursuing goals that may feel out of reach, McBride encourages them to remain focused on their own path and continue preparing for the opportunities ahead.

“Don't let someone else's timeline convince you that your dream has an expiration date,” McBride said. “Some of the greatest opportunities in my life came after seasons that felt filled with closed doors.”

She also emphasizes that success requires more than talent. It requires consistency, preparation, and a willingness to show up.

“Continue investing in yourself, sharpening your skills, and showing up,” McBride said. “Success isn't always about being the most talented person in the room. It's often about being the most trustworthy with the tasks at hand.”

Representing California and Her Story at Miss USA

As McBride prepares to take the Miss USA stage, she hopes audiences see more than a title. She wants them to recognize themselves in her story and see what is possible when they remain proud of where they come from while pursuing where they are going.

“I want people to see me but also to see themselves: someone proud of where they come from and of the experiences that have shaped them along the way,” McBride said.

Her story includes her experience as an HBCU graduate, her entrepreneurial pursuits, and her work as co-founder of Micah’s Walk for Autism, a nonprofit dedicated to advocacy, education, and support for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities and their families. Named for her younger brother, Micah, the organization reflects McBride’s commitment to service and creating opportunities for others.

“Most importantly, I hope people see someone who is committed to serving others, continues to learn and grow, and is proud to represent California while doing so,” McBride said.

Carrying the CAU Legacy Forward

For McBride, reaching the Miss USA stage is also an opportunity to continue representing the institution that played a pivotal role in her development.

“Representing Clark Atlanta University as an alumna is one of my greatest honors because CAU will always be part of my foundation,” McBride said. “No matter where my career or life takes me, I carry the ‘Find A Way or Make One’ mentality.”

That Panther spirit remains central to how McBride views her journey. From Mississippi to Atlanta and ultimately Los Angeles, she has continued to embrace opportunities that pushed her beyond her comfort zone.

“I hope my journey is a reflection of what's possible when you're surrounded by people who believe in you,” McBride said. “Clark Atlanta gave me that environment, and I'm proud to continue representing the university everywhere I go.”

As she prepares to represent California at Miss USA, McBride carries with her more than a crown. She carries the experiences of an HBCU education, the support of the communities that helped shape her, and the enduring belief that when an opportunity appears, the next step is to find a way or make one.

For Those Interested in Supporting Acacia McBride

Members of the CAU community who would like to support Acacia McBride ’20 can participate in the People’s Choice/Fan Favorite vote, which could advance her directly into the Top 20 at Miss USA.

Vote for Acacia McBride through the People’s Choice leaderboard: https://peopleschoice.missusa.com/leaderboard