Freshmen Ernest Branford, an agriculture economics major from Houston, Texas, and Jade Wilson, a nursing major hailing from Cushing, Okla., were crowned Mr. and Miss University College, Sept. 30 in the 2008-2009 University College Scholarship Pageant held at the Opal Johnson Smith auditorium.
This year’s theme for the pageant was “Rock the Vote” and was focused on encouraging students to vote. Juniors Dareon Horn and Nicoli Williams’ group ViP of DSF Entertainment started the first performance of the night with their song “Baby.” 2007-2008 Mr. and Miss UC Bryan Gibson and Elizabeth Gardner hosted the event, and Oba Woodyard and Kara Willis, Mr. and Miss Prairie View A&M University, presented the questions to the contestants for the question and answer period.
In the first segment of the pageant, campus wear, contestants wore clothing that they wear around campus. They came out to their own theme songs as they strutted on stage, dancing and modeling their outfits.
The next round was talent. A few contestants chose to sing, while others danced or did a monologue. Joshua Jones, a communications major, mimed while education major Clynese Glenn sang “I Am Changing.” Both received standing ovations from the audience. After the contestants finished showcasing their talent, Forte And The Xecutives performed on stage.
For the evening wear portion of the pageant, the young men escorted the young women onto the stage, with the exception of three who were escorted by Navy ROTC. Finally, awards were given and Ciandra Alvord won Miss Congeniality and women’s campus wear segment. Winners of Mr. Debonair and Miss Diva were Jones and John’nay Martin. Glenn and Timothy Woods II took home best talent. Woods also won men’s campus wear.
The first runners-up were Woods and Alvord.
Freshman nursing major Ime Essien said that she enjoyed the pageant. “I enjoyed how they made the theme to encourage African Americans to stand for change,” she said.
Woodyard congratulated all the contestants, “Congrats to all who participated in the pageant. Let this be a stepping stone to limitless success in the future.”
“I feel blessed,” said Branford, “This is a great opportunity to represent the UC.”
Branford also stated that it was also somewhat hectic behind the scenes, “I was nervous. We encouraged each other to do our best.”
Wilson was very excited about being crowned Miss UC, saying, “I feel like I’m on top of the world. I’m looking forward to being recognized for my hard work.”
Her words of wisdom for young women who want to participate in pageants were, “definitely do it because it’s worth it in the end.”