On the weekend of Jan. 21-23, junior psychology major Jacy Carpenter was crowned Louisiana District Miss Black and Gold. Sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the 48th Annual Louisiana District Conference pageant took place at Southern University in Baton Rouge, where 14 “Chapter Sweethearts” competed in six different categories: interview, formal introduction, swimwear, talent, formal wear and on stage question.
As treasurer of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., vice president of sororities for the Pan-Hellenic Council, senator of the Student Government Association (SGA) and former orientation leader, Carpenter is actively involved on Southeastern’s campus.
“Jacy is a huge asset to Southeastern and especially the Greek Community,” said Office of Greek Life Director Cherie Thriffiley. “It is an honor to have her represent Southeastern as Miss Black and Gold.”
The chapter level competition featured seven contestants and took place on Nov. 1 in the Student Union Theatre. After winning the chapter competition, Carpenter went through weeks of training for potential interview questions and physical appearance. She had to keep up with local and national events to prepare for the judges’ questions.
“Winning the district level competition really proved to me that pageants are about more than just beauty,” said Carpenter. “I knew I had so much to offer as Miss Black and Gold, but I was very happy to know that the judges recognized and appreciated not only my beauty, but my intelligence, confidence and talent. When they called my name as the winner, I was shocked because the other 13 women were such fierce competitors!”
Alpha Phi Alpha’s longstanding tradition of naming exceptional young women as “Chapter Sweethearts” extended into an annual pageant competition that takes place on a chapter, district, regional and national level. This event gives the fraternity an opportunity to thank members around the country for their support.
As Louisiana District Miss Black and Gold, Carpenter will advance to the regional competition that will take place in Houston, Texas, March 17-20. There are a total of five Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. regions in the nation. Louisiana is part of the southwest region, which also includes Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas.
“I’m aware that I will be competing against three or four of the best young women in the region. Therefore, I have to step my game up and keep the same humble attitude and confidence I’ve had since the beginning!”
Even though she has not competed in pageants since the seventh grade, Carpenter attributes her recent crowning to humility, self-confidence and a desire to do her best in every category.
“Not only have I been able to showcase my talents, views and individuality through the Miss Black and Gold Pageant, but I have also been given the opportunity to show other young women that success in pageants is about much more than just beauty. It takes intelligence, hard work and, most importantly, self-confidence to be a true queen.”