First runner-up Suzette Charles replaces scandal-ridden Vanessa Lynn Williams as Miss America

Suzette Charles (born Suzette DeGaetano) American singer and entertainer, represented New Jersey in the 1984 Miss America pageant held in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She won her preliminary talent night and finished first runner-up to Vanessa Lynn Williams, who became the first African-American to wear the crown and title of Miss America. Miss America Vanessa Williams resigned her title on July 23, 1984, before questionable photos of her appeared in print. She was replaced by New Jersey's Suzette Charles (the first runner up) who became the second African-American woman to wear the crown. When Williams resigned the title in scandal, Charles fulfilled her duties for the remaining seven weeks, making her the second African-American Miss America. Charles also became the first Italian-American Miss America. Her father, Charles DeGaetano, is of Italian descent, and her mother, Suzette Adams, is African-American. Charles's 7-week reign is the shortest served by any Miss America. (UPI Photo/Files)