Laura Lott Valenti of River Ridge, who won the title of Mrs. Louisiana United States in May, will join other married women from throughout the nation this week in the quest for the crown and title of Mrs. United States 2011.

The pageant will take place today and Thursday at the Las Vegas Hilton.

Valenti, married to Richard Valenti Jr., is an instructor of marketing at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux and a freelance business consultant. She is a graduate of the University of New Orleans, where she earned both her bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s degree in business administration.

Valenti volunteers for several organizations, including the United Way for Greater New Orleans, Louisiana Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Heifer International and Kiva. She also co-founded a women’s networking group, WIN NOLA, and serves as an advocate for breast cancer and cervical cancer awareness.

Mrs. United States contenders compete via personal interview, evening gown and swimsuit components, each judged equally.

Celebrating its 25th year, the annual pageant was founded to recognize the intelligence, success, strength, beauty and resilience of married women.

Rachel Juillerat, Mrs. United States 2010, will crown the new titleholder.

For additional information about the contest, go to www.mrsunitedstates.com. Read Valenti’s official blog at http://mrslouisiana.blogspot.com.