“Finding a Jewel in the Midst of Motown” was this year’s theme of the Miss Black and Gold Pageant held in MSC Auditorium on Feb.10 by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Master and Mistress of Ceremony were BJ O’Neal and Jacquelyn Wesley who started the program with a little information on Motown’s past.
Perkina Clark, Brandy Jones, Endira Hawkins, Rochelle Johnson, Natausha Harris, and Sossity Lewis were the six lovely ladies competing in the pageant. The contestants started by introducing themselves with big beautiful smiles and moves as they danced to some of Motown’s greatest hits. Alpha Orok Orok kept the crowd moving with classical Motown music from artists such as Lenny Williams and Al Green as the girls strutted across the stage in colorful striped, solid, and polka dotted swimwear.
After the talent portion it was time for the formal wear. The young ladies had on their beautiful long ball dresses, gowns, and sparkling jewelry as they walked the stage so gracefully. As they showed off their dresses, all contestants answered the questions posed to them with honesty and integrity.
Wesley and O’Neal then announced the winners of Best Formal Wear, Best Talent, Best Interview, Miss Congeniality, and Most Ads Sold.
Then it was the moment they were all waiting for; who would be Miss Black and Gold? Smiles, tears, and nervousness were evident as the 2nd runner up Natausha Harris was announced. 1st runner up was Brandy Jones with the title of Epsilon Tau Lambda representing grad school.
Tears of joy ran down Endira Hawkins’ face as she was crowned Miss Black and Gold.