| Miss North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Myja Gary started preparing for the Miss National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame pageant over the summer and on Sept. 26, it paid off. Gary was named first runner up, placing second out of 25 contestants.
“I know that I won because I left my all on the stage and my institution is so proud of me,” Gary said. “I did A&T a good deed and I will continue to do my best to represent my university well.”
Gary, 21, is a senior majoring in journalism and mass communication with a concentration in multimedia journalism. Miss A&T is her first position in the Student Government Association.
The competition began on Wednesday with the preliminary rounds that included personal interviews, a preliminary talent competition as well as poise and projection.
“My experience was nothing short of amazing. I never imagined being a part of a sisterhood that means so much to me that has helped ne me grow and learn so much about myself,” Gary said.
Prior to leaving for the competition in Atlanta, Gary had a practice round on campus in a showcase at the Harrison Auditorium. Her fellow students created a hashtag on the popular social media websites Twitter and Instagram, #RiseWithMyja, to show their support. The hashtag was an ode to her platform, “Still I RISE – Reaching Inspiring Strengthening Empowering the Campus and the Community.”
“The amount of love and support I was received was unbelievable,” she said. “Aggies literally showed up and showed out. I am so grateful to know that my institution believes in me and I will do my best to continue to make them proud.”
Also that weekend, the New Jersey Alumni Chapter was named co-Small Alumni Chapter of the Year and Janice Bryant Howroyd and U.S. Army Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Clara Adams-Ender were inducted into the Hall of Fame in the business/industry and government categories, respectively. |
