The new Miss Texas A&M University Kingsville is……

All eyes were on Jaqueline McClendon during her final walk across the stage as Miss TAMUK 2022. As her tears built up the audience’s anticipation grew, who will be the next Miss TAMUK? 

Being crowned Miss Texas A&M University Kingsville comes with big shoes to fill, many young girls aspire to follow in the footsteps of Miss TAMUK. 

“I had the privilege to attend and lead a confidence building workshop for young women. I encouraged them to love themselves first and to stay positive. A few weeks later I received so many messages from these girls thanking me for the impact I made on them,” McClendon said. 

Eight young women dedicated countless hours in preparation for the evening, each with their own story and American dream but only one would go home with the crown. 

“A lot of people are only aware of the night of the pageant and don’t know the amount of work it takes on and off the stage. The process started in November of 2022, Lizzetty Lara, Julianne Gomez and the university’s campus activity board members have played a big role in the preparation as well,” Gabrielle Vaughn said.

The pageant began with each candidate introducing themselves and their contestant number.

After contestants delivered their individual prepared speeches on what the American dream means to them, it was time for the Lantana section of the pageant.

Named after the university’s flower, the Lantana portion of the pageant included more personalized background information on the contestants as each of them gracefully walked in their evening attire (some of which they designed themselves).

Once the contestants completed their individual walks, all were welcomed back to the stage. The competition was narrowed down to three and it was now time to hear why they would recommend attending TAMUK to prospective students. The Miss Congeniality title was presented to Carissa Palacios. Miss Lantana was awarded to Erial Hawkins. Talia Hernandez received the title of Miss Photogenic.

The scholarship pageant is where many contestants tackle their fear of public speaking, including for Hawkins.

“This pageant really focuses on leadership and developing your personal skills, it is a journey of self-development,” Hawkins said.

Hawkins was announced as the second runner up, the remaining contestants held hands as they announced Palacios as the Miss TAMUK 2023. She is from Falfurrias, Texas.

“One of many reasons why I wanted to pursue this crown was to set an example for my sisters. I wanted them to know anything is possible; that no matter where you come from, you can do anything,” she said.

No contestant left the stage empty handed, Hernandez said.

“Even though I wasn’t crowned Miss TAMUK I gained valuable interview experience which I can apply towards a big veterinary interview I have coming up,” she said.

If anyone is interested in competing in the Miss TAMUK 2024 Scholarship pageant, you must maintain a 2.75 GPA and keep an eye out for applications that will be out in the second week of February.