Melissa Núñez was crowned Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2026 at the 70th edition of the national pageant, earning the right to represent the Dominican Republic at Miss Universe on November 24 at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico.
Núñez represents Concepción de La Vega and previously competed in the 2024 edition as a representative of the Dominican Community in the United States, the year Celinee Santos took the crown.
Born in La Vega, Núñez holds a degree in Medical Sciences and Psychology from The City College of New York. She has worked with substance abuse patients at the NYU School of Medicine at Bellevue Hospital. She began her academic path in the Dominican Republic, studying medicine for three years before receiving a scholarship to continue her education in the United States.
Alongside her academic career, Núñez has spent eight years as a professional model with Ford Models, working for brands including Moschino, Michael Kors and Alberta Ferretti, as well as appearing in campaigns for Maybelline, NARS and L’Oréal.
She also serves as an ambassador for Dress for Success, supporting formerly incarcerated women with professional image guidance and tools for reintegration into the workforce.
Finalists
- Valentina Campion (Samaná) finished as first runner-up.
- Floralba Caba (Monseñor Nouel) was second runner-up.
- The finalist group also included Camila Issa (Santo Domingo de Guzmán), Melissa Domínguez (Azua) and Elena Izzo Anselmi (Distrito Nacional).
Campion and Caba received the highest public support during the gala.
