Shandi Finnessey

Shandi Ren Finnessey, born on June 9, 1978, is a multifaceted American actress, model, television host, and beauty queen. She gained widespread recognition after clinching the Miss USA title as Miss Missouri USA. Prior to this achievement, she was crowned Miss Missouri in 2002 and participated in the Miss America pageant, where she earned a preliminary award. Finnessey achieved notable success at the Miss Universe 2004 competition, securing the first runner-up position. This remarkable finish marked the highest placement for a U.S. contestant during the 2000s and represented a significant milestone between Brook Mahealani Lee's victory in 1997 and Olivia Culpo's win in 2012. Finnessey remains one of only three individuals to have held both the Miss Missouri USA and Miss Missouri titles and is the sole representative from Missouri to have been crowned Miss USA.

In addition to her pageantry, Finnessey authored an award-winning children's book titled "The Furrtails" in 2002, which focuses on themes of individuality and disabilities. Her television career includes co-hosting the game show "Lingo" alongside Chuck Woolery on the Game Show Network in the mid-2000s. She has also hosted "PlayMania" and "quiznation," and served as a sideline reporter for CBS's "Ultimate Blackjack Tour." Through her diverse pursuits, Finnessey has made a significant impact in both entertainment and literature.