Awareness
Raising understanding of Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and autism, so that more families, educators and communities recognize and respond with knowledge and compassion.
Official Website of the Titleholder
Kellie LightbournMrs. Universe® · Crowned May 2026
Attorney, longtime journalist and lifelong advocate for individuals with special needs and their families — serving her year as Mrs. Universe® from her hometown of Stuart, Florida.
Official portrait coming soon
The Titleholder
Mrs. Universe®
Crowned May 2026
Meet Kellie Lightbourn
A voice for families, a titleholder for the Treasure Coast
Kellie Lightbourn was crowned Mrs. Universe® in May 2026. A resident of Stuart, Florida, she is an attorney, a longtime journalist, and a former television legal advocate and expert for ABC Action News.
For decades she has championed people with special needs and the families who love them. Her advocacy is personal: her son lives with Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and autism. As Mrs. Universe®, she brings that lifelong commitment to a wider stage.
Year of Service
Special Needs Advocacy
Mrs. Lightbourn’s year as Mrs. Universe® is dedicated to the cause she has championed for decades: dignity, inclusion and support for individuals with special needs and their families.
Inclusion
Encouraging schools, workplaces and public spaces to welcome people of every ability, and to see each individual for their gifts.
Family Support
Standing with parents and caregivers — helping them find community, information and a voice as they navigate the path of raising a child with special needs.
At a Glance
Background
- TitleMrs. Universe®, crowned May 2026
- HometownStuart, Florida — Treasure Coast, Martin County
- PlatformSpecial needs advocacy; CdLS and autism awareness
- ProfessionAttorney; longtime journalist
- TelevisionLegal advocate and expert, ABC Action News
- ServiceFormer board director, National Humane Society; spokesperson, ARC
- FamilyMother of twins and two bonus sons
Event photograph coming soon
Appearances
Invite Mrs. Universe® to your event
Mrs. Lightbourn welcomes invitations from schools, nonprofits, civic organizations, businesses and media throughout Stuart, the Treasure Coast and beyond.
Press
Media & press resources
Journalists and producers may request interviews, an official biography and approved photography through the office of the titleholder.