Students and faculty crowded the Babydome Monday night for the 2011 Prairie View Choice Awards.
Coordinator Christal Gibson, a junior communications major, and her staff performed negotiations for sponsorship with Brubaker’s.
“I had a great time at the PV Choice Awards; I plan on going again next year. As a freshman it’s cool to know I have fun events such as these to look forward to,” said freshman English major Josh Holguin.
With red carpet, photographers, and a limousine and reception for the nominees, this year’s show, which carried theme “Prairievolution,” inspiring the evolution of Prairie View from past to present, showing students still enjoy the same activities today, posted a budget of $15, 000.
The pre-show set off the mood with on-campus talent including artist Brandy Shanice and her imitation of Janet Jackson’s rhythm nation. Crowds filled the stadium with students, family and friends waiting to cheer on the nominees as the awards show began. Comedian and University of Houston Alumnus Billy Sorrells provided his comical relief throughout the night hosting the awards.
Winners included DJ Chose for Spotlight of the Year and DJ of the Year, and his group Brook Gang performed their hit “Pop That.” Other awards were given to Orok Orok for staff member of the Year, Young Solar for Rap Artist of the Year, Omega Psi Phi for PAN Organization of the Year, Kappa Kappa Psi for CSO of the Year, and Gold Members Club for Organization of the Year.
Gibson said, “I can honestly say through all the hectic events taking place, my most memorable moment was when everyone in the crowd made the Babydome light up in honor of Nate Dogg with their cell phones.”
Live performances were from Kirko Bangz, Dorrough, and Houston native Marcus Manchild. Kirko opened with the infamous procrastination kills track “What Your Name Iz,” and Dorrough performed “Ice Cream Paint job” and other notable singles.