The 44th annual Unity Week came to a close on Sunday evening with the crowning of a new Miss Unity.
The university’s Black Student Association (BSA) hosted the 56th annual Unity Pageant at Pruis Hall, with the theme running throughout the show of “A Night in New Orleans.”
The spirit of New Orleans was shown in the opening dance number, which had jazz as the background music.
Six women contested for Miss Unity, who presented their talents, community dedication and experience in front of a vocal crowd.
Niecy Caldwell, a third-year dance major, was honored as Miss Unity. Gizelle Smedley, a fourth-year biology and pre-dentistry major, was the first runner-up; and Akailah Shepherd, a fourth-year elementary education major, was the second runner-up.
Two other awards were given out: highest advertising sales and audience’s choice. Both awards were won by Taylor Johnson, a second-year marketing major.
The other contestants were: Sierra Ivy, a fourth-year archeticure major and Nasjae Wells, a first-year phsychology major.
The contestants were evaluated by five judges, with the members of the audience also being able to vote via QR code after the competition portion.
The contestants spoke on donating to their home church and participating in a homeless drive, while also taking part in dance routines and presenting paintings.
Caldwell, a non-traditional student, said her win as Miss Unity was the confirmation she needed that she was doing the right thing by recommitting to college.
“This is just another chance to say I’m on the right track,” she said.
Similar sentiments were shared by Smedley, who applauded the work the five other women did.
“Everyone really put their best foot forward, and it’ll be a great representation of Ball State,” Smedley said.
The crowning of Miss Unity closed out another successful Unity Week at the university.
Contact Grayson Joslin with comments at Grayson.joslin@bsu.edu or on X @GraysonMJoslin.
Read More
Graduating non-traditional Ball State University students have accomplished more than a degree
By Ella Howell / 2 hours agoBefore sunrise, while most of Ball State University’s campus remains still and quiet, a few early risers start their day to fulfill other commitments: a full-time job, missing a class to care for a sick kid or simply being in a completely new environment. There are many paths students take, and varying experiences bring diverse challenges.
Capturing The County - Episode 19
By Zach Carter and Adam Altobella / 18 hours agoIn this episode, Zach and Adam discuss the future of the Ball State Daily News and recap the Delaware County sports action from the school year.
The eyes and ears of the David Owsley Museum of Art
By Madelyn Bracken / YesterdayThe David Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA) doesn’t only house art. For many Ball State University students, it houses opportunity. Graduate and social media assistant, and former DOMA intern and guard, Taylor Hamblin spent the past two years working at the museum surrounded with possibilities to further her career while at Ball State.
