PUNXSUTAWNEY: Punxsutawney native Kira Haught has captured the national spotlight, earning the title of 2025 Cover Girl from Maxim after a months-long competition that drew unprecedented participation from around the world.

More than 9 million votes were cast as Haught advanced through multiple rounds, ultimately outlasting over 47,000 entrants to secure the top honor and a $100,000 grand prize. The competition blended public voting with evaluations from industry professionals, culminating in in-person interviews and photoshoots that tested adaptability, confidence, and authenticity.

Haught, who grew up on a 10-acre farm in Punxsutawney, recently graduated from Jeff Tech with the Class of 2024–2025. Prior to entering the competition, she worked as a hairstylist at local salons and had no professional modeling background, no agency representation, and no portfolio beyond senior photos and self-taken images. Several of her early submissions were photographed by a family friend.

That lack of traditional experience, however, became part of what set her apart. According to Maxim, judges were drawn to her genuine presence, honesty, and ability to remain herself under pressure. Those qualities carried her through personal interviews and final selection rounds, even as she competed against contestants with extensive pageant and modeling résumés.

Haught’s journey included travel to Miami, Florida, where she participated in a photoshoot as part of the competition. She has said she entered the process simply hoping for the best, never imagining it would lead to a national win.

“I just showed up as myself, worked hard, and hoped for the best,” Haught said, noting the sheer scale of the contest. “It was the biggest entry competition they’ve ever had.”

The moment she learned she had won came quietly—but memorably. Haught said she was informed on New Year’s Eve but sworn to secrecy. Days later, she was asked to join a video call for what she believed were final questions. Midway through the conversation, she realized something was different.

“Halfway through the call they said, ‘Congratulations, you’ve won,’” she said, describing the moment as surreal. She added that her mother, Karen Haught, reacted with joyful disbelief when she was finally able to share the news.

As part of her win, Haught will appear on a future cover of Maxim following a professional shoot with renowned fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon, whose career includes work on America’s Next Top Model and collaborations with artists such as Beyoncé and Madonna. Maxim has also committed to providing ongoing mentorship and strategic career guidance as Haught explores opportunities in modeling and media.

In addition to the personal accolades, Haught directed $50,000 from the competition to Rescue City, an animal shelter close to her heart—underscoring a win that benefits both her future and a cause she cares deeply about.

From a small-town upbringing to an international platform, Haught’s story is one of authenticity, perseverance, and unexpected opportunity—an achievement being celebrated well beyond Punxsutawney.