Nicole Johnson accepted Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps’ marriage proposal over the weekend after years of dating.

Who Is Nicole Johnson?

Johnson entered her first pageant when she was 17, earning a scholarship from her runner-up finish to use to transfer to the University of Southern California from Moorpark College. She graduated from USC in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in communication, focusing on sports entertainment. In 2010, Johnson was named Miss California and went on to place in the Top 10 in the Miss America pageant.

A photo posted by Nicole Michele (@nicole.m.johnson) on Jan 11, 2015 at 9:34am PST

At the time, Phelps, an 18-time Olympic gold medalist, took some time off training to escort Johnson to her pageant responsibilities. “I’m here for one reason and one reason only. Nicole,” Phelps told E! News while in Palm Springs. “Michael is here supporting me and my family and it feels great,” Johnson said. “It’s been great. I love having their support. They have all backed me in everything I’ve done.” Johnson, who has been dating Phelps on-and-off since 2007, has the approval of Phelps’ sister Hilary Phelps, who wrote on Facebook, “CONGRATULATIONS to these two lovebirds on their engagement! Couldn’t be happier for my brother and thrilled to gain a sister, who I adore and love already!” After celebrating the engagement with Phelps in Maryland, Johnson headed home to California to celebrate with friends.”My west coast ladies welcomed me home with an amazing celebration!!,” she wrote. “#iloveyouladies #myfianceandmymonkeytrickedme #thankful #smiles #aaahhhhimengaged.”

 

A photo posted by Nicole Michele (@nicole.m.johnson) on Feb 23, 2015 at 10:39pm PST