Miss USA 2011 - Winner Miss California Alyssa Campanella [PHOTOS&VIDEOS]

Miss California Alyssa Campanella, 21, was crowned with the title of Miss USA 2011 Sunday night, beating 50 other beauties at the annual beauty pageant held at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

Campanella, a full-time model born and raised in New Jersey and now living in Los Angeles, will represent the United States at this year's Miss Universe pageant in Brazil on September 12.

Campanella calls herself a huge science geek, and insists that evolution should be taught in public schools. Before her victory night, Miss California earned her way into the semi-finals in the preliminary judging, which included interviews. She she was one of two, among 51 contestants, to unequivocally support the teaching evolution, reported USA Today. I was taught evolution in high school. I do believe in it. I'm a huge science geek...I like to believe in the Big Bang theory and, you know, the evolution of humans throughout time, Campanella said in the interview.

Regarding legalizing marijuana, Campanella said, Well, I understand why that question would be asked, especially with today's economy, but I also understand that medical marijuana is very important to help those who need it medically, she said. I'm not sure if it should be legalized, if it would really affect, with the drug war. I mean, it's abused today, unfortunately, so that's the only reason why I would kind of be a little bit against it, but medically it's OK. Ironically, California, the state she represents, is one of the first states to legalize medical marijuana. At least she would be happy to know it.

According to Californiality, the Miss USA 2011 prize for Alyssa Campanella includes:

Custom diamond tiara and jewelry designed by Diamond Nexus Labs

One year scholarship + housing from the New York Film Academy

One year of hair care products and tools from Farouk Systems

Rwanda-made bracelets by women of the Same Sky Trade Initiative

Evening wear wardrobe by Sherri Hill

Swimwear wardrobe by Kandy Wrappers

Shoe wardrobe from Chinese Laundry

One year of nail care products from OPI Products, Inc.

One year of sun care products from Australian Gold

Luxury NYC apartment during her reign + living expenses

One year of excellent salary as Miss USA