It was a regal evening for nine women as Alpha Phi Alpha held its annual Miss Black & Gold Scholarship pageant Friday in the Reitz Union Grand Ballroom.
Contestants chose a historic queen they most related to for the queen-themed pageant, which drew a crowd of about 275.
The goal of the pageant was to recognize women in leadership and scholarship roles, said Armando Colbourne, co-director of the pageant.
Gina Lewis, a marketing senior, took home the title of Miss Black & Gold at the end of the night.
“It’s extremely overwhelming and exciting,” Lewis said after winning. “I’ve met so many amazing girls and am glad to have this experience.”
Lewis will receive a $1,000 scholarship for winning the pageant.
The 1st runner up was Crystal Goss, a sophomore recreation event management major and 2nd runner up was Chelsea Lewis, junior management and psychology double major. Goss and Lewis will receive $300 and $100, respectively.
Nine collection jars were set up outside the ballroom, one for each contestant. The contestant with the most money in their jar won the “People’s Choice” award, and all the money was donated to Gators United for Haiti.
More than $500 was raised for Haiti, and Kyra Montaque, an English junior, took home the “People’s Choice” award.
Contestants also participated in swim wear, talent and evening wear competitions.
The talent portion of the pageant was a crowd favorite, and it gave the contestants an opportunity to showcase their personality.
Some of the talents included original spoken word pieces, monologues, fashion designs, songs and dances.
“I thought that there were a lot of diverse talents,” said Jasmine Guy, an advertising junior. “It really kept me engaged.”
