Wilson began competing in pageantry after she was crowned Miss Hawaii USA 1962. As Miss Hawaii USA, Wilson competed at Miss USA 1962 in Miami. She went on to win the title, becoming the first entrant from Hawaii, first Asian American, and first woman of color to win the title.[1][2] As Miss USA, she went on to place in the Top 15 at Miss Universe 1962, also held in Miami, behind winner Norma Nolan of Argentina. After Miss Universe, Wilson was asked to fill in for Nolan during a Miss Universe event at the Orange Bowl Parade in Miami when Nolan fell ill with the measles.[3]
^Singka, Ranny (2009-05-08). "Miss USA The Second Decade 1962-1971". Behind The Crown - The on-line magazine covering the Miss USA, Miss Universe, Miss Teen USA, Miss AMerica, and Miss World Pageants. Anurun Production, Inc. Archived from the original on 2011-09-10. Retrieved 2011-03-19.