Since the pageant began in 1975, Students for the Propagation of Black Culture (SPBC) has spearheaded the event. Scholarships are awarded to the top three contestants, the overall top private interview score, and the overall top talent score. The contestants compete in five (5) categories – private interview, athletic wear, community service impact statement/on-stage question, talent, and evening wear.
“Choosing to compete in the Miss Essence Scholarship Pageant was a decision that ultimately allowed me to blossom as a young lady and helped me instill confidence in myself. I discovered a talent that I never knew I had, spoken word, and I was able to share my passion about diversity and inclusion with the campus community. Being Miss Essence was something I never thought I could do, but becoming a campus queen taught me that to keep trying when you do not succeed, is better than not trying at all.”Anessa Bryant, Miss Essence 2023
“This pageant was founded to give women of color a chance to showcase their intelligence, talents and beauty at UCA. This really gives them an opportunity to shine.”
Angela Jackson, Director of Diversity and Community