Avi’Yam Jordan
MC Practicum Student
On Friday Feb., 21 the Miss JSU interest meeting was held and four young ladies learned that it takes more than a pretty face to reign as queen of Jackson State University. During the meeting they received an in-depth view of what it takes to have a successful and productive reign.
The potential candidates also learned that there will be a few changes to this year’s pageant. Still clean, professional and fun, the ladies who participate will be able to show the audience who they truly are in a sophisticated manner by implementing the vision of outgoing Miss JSU, Déjà Knight.
“We want the university to feel connected to the young ladies and get an opportunity to know them and see who they truly are,” said Kimberly Morgan-Myles, pageant consultant and former Miss Mississippi. “We want the judges to have a hard time to choose just three. We want to take the pageant to the next level and for the community to feel more connected to the future student ambassadors of the university.”
Graceful, poised, articulate and kind are a few traits that are highly desired in a potential queen of the university. However a stellar GPA, talent and leadership skills are also a priority.
The pageant, which will be sponsored by the JSU Center for Student Engagement and Inclusion, will also feature a diverse group of judges this year. The pageant is going to be a fair game.
Admonishments against pre-campaigning and bashing were discussed in the meeting and all potential candidates where advised on how to conduct a successful campaign without getting ugly.
Morgan-Myles, former Miss Alcorn State University, Miss Mississippi and Miss America contestant said that pageant will be both simple and elegant.
“We want a new feel while keeping the tradition,” said Morgan-Myles. “Be true to who you are, do not give less than the best. The position, the title and the crown is beyond you. It’s about making a difference in the university, community, and state of Mississippi.”
Applications are still available in the Student Center if any young ladies missed the meeting. Nominations are on March 24, 2014. The Miss JSU Pageant takes place on April 7, 2014 and election day is April 11, 2014. If you have any questions or concerns contact the Center for Student Engagement and Inclusion at 601-979-1179.
