Mr. and Miss Bowie Pageant Takes Different Turn

By Kira Ward

This year's selection of Mr. and Miss Bowie State University was more hectic then ever as the candidates sought to present their leadership qualities at the annual pageant ahead of the April 8 election.

With an African-inspired theme, the pageant opened with the candidates dressed in African attire, introducing who they were, and what they were running for. Authentic African drums, played by BSU student Yusef, accompanied the scene. After introductions, ASA dance group Pheisty, entertained the audience with an ethnic performance.

Next was the talent portion of the pageant. At this point in the program candidates got the chance showcase their talents and show BSU students how well rounded they were. A few of the candidates recited poetry, another played a selection on the violin, another performed a hand dance routine, and another wowed the crowd beginning his piece with a musical selection and ending with a special guest who happened to be the BSU mascot, the Bulldog.

The current Mr. and Miss Bowie got a chance to reflect on their reign as king and queen of BSU in the following part of the pageant. Included in their reflection, were things that they had done while they served, what being apart of the court meant to them, and what they hoped to leave behind when there time was over.

The next portion appeared to be the most awaited by the audience. This portion was where the candidates were dressed in formal wear and graced the stage with poise and elegance. Following the formal wear was the question and answer. During this part they were asked a random question in which they were required to give the appropriate the answer.

Throughout the program, candidates got a chance to reiterate their platforms, share their goals, and generally tell why they should be chosen. The candidates addressed many issues with housing and Internet connectivity, as well as discussed why they were qualified, what they embodied, and the goals that they had for the BSU student body.

The pageant allowed students to see how the candidates carried themselves and how well-rounded they were in different areas of their lives. After the candidates had given their best, everyone was stunned at the announcement that some candidates would be eliminated and only four --- two for Miss Bowie and two for Mr. Bowie --- would remain on the ballot for the April 8 election.

This annual event definitely took a different turn this year, some students were unhappy, while others embraced the change. Yet, the traditions were still kept throughout the pageant, qualifying all of the candidates to represent Bowie State University and perhaps go on to compete in larger pageants in the future.