More than 300 spectators attended the coronation of Jasmin S. Searcy, Miss Jackson State University 2007-08 which makes the senior psychology major the 68th campus queen.
The annual event, which kicked off a weeklong celebration of JSU homecoming activities, gave representatives of student organizations a chance to don elegant gowns and tuxedos.
This year's coronation, conducted with an African flair, was felt through the rhythmic and acrobatic leaps and movements of an African dance routine performed by the JSU Dance Ensemble.
"I chose the African theme because I like to do things differently," said Searcy, "and I really wanted to go back to our roots in Africa."
Carlisha Anderson, a freshman sociology major from Greenville, enjoyed the international flavor of the night.
"She was beautiful," Anderson said.
Later, Searcy made her grand entrance after a majestic trumpet fanfare. Dressed in a strapless, white gown with feathers around her shoulders, the queen entered the arena escorted by four of her African warriors.
During the night, an African drum cadence served as a subtle backdrop during the Grand Parade of the High Court and the Court of Honor.
The High Court consists of Religious, Special Interest and Academic Councils, while the Court of Honor includes a representative of the Pan Hellenic Council, each fraternity and sorority, and the Queen's Court, which includes Mr. and Miss Freshman up to Mr. and Miss Senior.
After being sworn in by Student Government Association Chief Justice Laurie Roberts and crowned by President Ronald Mason Jr., Searcy was cloaked with an eight-foot Royal JSU mantle, a first in JSU history.
Searcy delivered an impromptu yet genuine acceptance speech highlighted by a presentation to her mother and greatest supporter, Brenda Rascoe. Raised alone by Rascoe, Searcy credited her mom with defying the stereotypes of black, single mothers and gave her a tiara and flowers. Searcy also thanked the student body, faculty and staff for electing and assisting her as Miss JSU.
