Jack Maxwell
Elizabeth Gibson, the reigning Miss Oklahoma City, is a young woman of many talents who has made a name for herself as a singer, figure skater, actress, and Christian social media influencer. A local titleholder in the prestigious Miss America program, Elizabeth has spent much of her life in the spotlight, consistently pursuing excellence across multiple fields. Her journey took an unexpected and exciting turn in 2023 when she made a remarkable return to figure skating after an 11-year hiatus, a decision that would ultimately redefine her career and personal aspirations.
A Comeback Inspired by Childhood Dreams
Elizabeth’s return to figure skating was spurred by a nostalgic moment: a rewatch of the 2005 Disney film Ice Princess, a movie that had inspired her as a child. The film, which celebrates a passion for skating, rekindled a spark within her, leading her to revisit a sport she once had to abandon due to an ankle injury. “I loved skating so much that when injuries forced what I thought might be a permanent retirement; it was hard for me to watch,” she shared. “The movie inspired me not because it was about competition but because it was about the love of skating – a love I’d had since I was a little girl.”
With renewed determination and the support of her former coach, Elizabeth resumed training, facing the daunting task of relearning skills she thought she had lost forever. The road back to the ice was not without challenges, as she soon discovered she had ankle coalitions, a condition that previously sidelined her skating career. However, Elizabeth’s faith and perseverance propelled her forward, allowing her to overcome the setbacks.
From Setbacks to Success
Elizabeth’s efforts were soon rewarded. She competed in the U.S. Adult Figure Skating Championships, where she placed fifth in the Adult Bronze division, and won two gold medals in showcase events, marking a triumphant return to competitive figure skating. She is also gearing up for her debut at the National Showcase in Boston, signaling a promising future on the ice. Reflecting on her journey, Elizabeth credits her faith and skating with building the confidence that extends beyond the rink and into her endeavors as an actress, pageant contestant, and influencer.
A Legacy in the Miss America Program
Elizabeth’s involvement in the Miss America program extends beyond her own accomplishments; it is a family tradition that began with her grandmother and continued with her mother. As a third-generation contestant, Elizabeth hopes to carry the torch forward and secure the title of Miss Oklahoma this year, marking her fourth attempt. Having already placed in the top ten and winning the People’s Choice Award multiple times, she feels prepared and confident in her ability to represent her state. “I’m so excited for what the future holds and what God has in store,” she says, embracing the opportunity to serve as Miss Oklahoma.
Using Her Platform to Make a Difference
In addition to her accomplishments on stage and on the ice, Elizabeth uses her voice as a social media influencer to spread positivity, share her faith, and inspire others to pursue their passions. Her platform, #OurSocialDilemma, advocates for Internet safety, especially for young people, by promoting awareness about the risks associated with social media use. “I have been an advocate for many years for Internet safety and protection for our youth,” Elizabeth explains. “Through #OurSocialDilemma, I work with educators, parents, and young people alike. We are having courageous conversations about how personal safety on the web is more important than going viral.”
Elizabeth’s activism aims to address the pressures and dangers that young people face in the digital age. As an actress and content creator herself, she understands how easy it can be for youth to succumb to the allure of social media or encounter predatory behavior online. “We have a lot of work to do in this space,” she acknowledges, “but I believe with parental insight and safeguards being put in place by most major social media platforms, we’re making progress.”
A Bright Future Ahead
Elizabeth’s talent and drive extend to the entertainment world, where she has taken on speaking roles in TV series, stage performances, and even a few feature films. Whether pursuing her acting career or aiming for further achievements on the ice, she remains undeterred in her quest for success. The team at Glamour believes Elizabeth is a force to be reckoned with, predicting a future where she could hold a crown, a gold medal, and perhaps even a Golden Globe.
Elizabeth Gibson’s story is one of resilience, faith, and dedication. Her ability to overcome setbacks and embrace new opportunities serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring skaters, actors, and pageant contestants but to anyone facing challenges in life. As she continues to balance her roles as a titleholder, advocate, and performer, Elizabeth’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. The sky is truly the limit for this multi-talented dynamo.
