Laviano competed in her first Mission Universe Organization state pageant in 2005, finishing first runner-up to Raegan Raulston at Mission Mississippi Teen United States of America 2006. Prior to Laviano"s placement, only one titleholder, Jennifer Adcock, had placed since 1990.
In 2007 she won the 2008 title, the first time she competed in that pageant. Laviano represented Mississippi at the pageant held April 11, 2008 in Las Vegas, Nevada. She placed first runner-up to Crystle Stewart of Texas in the nationally televised pageant, which is the highest placement ever achieved by Mississippi in the 57 year history of the event.
