SI Swimsuit 2016 Rookie Reveal: Ashley Graham

Kelsey Hendrix | Jan 19, 2016

It's FINALLY time to reveal the second member of our SI Swimsuit 2016 Rookie Class. You've been asking all year and we're happy to announce the wait is over. This week, SwimDaily will introduce one of our five rookies each day, in advance of the issue's release next week. So without further ado, we bring you Ashley Graham!

Ashley, a native of Lincoln, NE, started her career at the age of 12, when she was discovered while shopping at her local mall in Omaha. Since then, she's gone on to do everything from editorial to runway to catalog, and is best known for her work as a lingerie model for retailer Lane Bryant. In 2013, she also partnered with Canadian brand Addition Elle to develop her own lingerie line, and has branded herself over the years as an advocate for beauty of all shapes and sizes.

•Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2016 Casting Call: Ashley Graham

SI Swimsuit 2016 kicks off on Saturday with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2016 Revealed, a first-of-its-kind broadcast event that will air on TNT Saturday night after NBA All-Star Weekend. The roll-out continues the following week with SI Swimsuit Fan Festivals in New York City (Feb. 15-16) and Miami (Feb. 17-18), where the SI Swimsuit faithful can meet their favorite models, get autographs, win prizes, and more.

Get to know Ashley a little bit better with these five fun facts: