Miss Dominican Republic, Ada Aimee de la Cruz, a professional model, was voted first runner-up in the Miss Universe Pageant held 23 August in the Bahamas. If necessary, she will step in for Miss Stefania Fernandez of Venezuela, who won the 2009 title. This is the second highest placement in a Miss Universe contest by a Dominican. In 2003, Amelia Vega was voted Miss Universe.