When Project Runway announced they would be including plus size models alongside straight size models in their new season, we were overjoyed.

They stated that they would be using models up to size 22. We knew we might see some familiar faces so we were not surprised when plus size model Liris Crosse, known as the Naomi Campbell of Plus, announced on Instagram that she will be one of the plus models included in the new season of Project Runway.

I've had to hold this secret in so long! I'm proud to announce that I am slaying the runways for season 16 of " @ProjectRunway " !! It's the 1ST TIME in its #HISTORY that they are having #PLUSSIZEMODELS be a part of the WEEKLY COMPETITION CHALLENGES alongside the #straightsize models. The thing I love about it is that they chose an array of body shapes as well for the plus models & the straight size. Women are all beautifully & differently made so this definitely shakes up the competition for the designers! The producers also have a few more hidden surprises as far as format so you definitely want to tune in every Thursday at 8 PM EST on @LifetimeTV channel to watch it. Special thanks to my agent at @IPMModels for booking the job! I will be live streaming a recap every week on my Facebook (Facebook.com/LirisC) & Periscope (follow me at LirisC) so make sure you catch those too so you can tell me your thoughts! I'm kicking this off with a viewing party on the 17th too so I'm uber excited! Well get ready my whirlwind of a ride I've been on & get ready to catch my runway slayage! It's gonna be awesome! Set your DVRs & see you every Thursday! You'll be able to read exclusive blogs along the season on my site LirisC.com too! Link in the bio. LOVE, LIRIS ???? #LirisCOnProjectRunway16 #ProjectRunway16Models #models #runway #nyfw #NaomiOfPlus #editorial #ProjectRunway #celebratemysize

A post shared by Liris Crosse (@lirisc) on Aug 8, 2017 at 1:14pm PDT

The veteran model has also done major things in her career outside of modeling. She has become a mentor to new models in the industry and has known for her popular Modeling Bootcamp workshops that are must-attend classes for new models.

She is also an actress, most recently seen in HBO’s The Night Of and was also a guest on a recent episode of the Steve Harvey Show, discussing her passion for inspiring women to love themselves and be confident in their skin. She’s a public speaker and soon-to-be author with her upcoming book Make The World Your Runway available for pre-order now here.

This powerhouse, who is signed to IPM Models and Dorothy Combs Models, also graced the cover of our December 2014 issue and has been featured within the pages of the magazine in stunning editorials. So we have a special place in our hearts for Liris and are very happy to see her on Project Runway. Very well-deserved! Congrats Liris!