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Contact: David West (west@alpha.nsula.edu
)
News Bureau
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6466
2/5/2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NATCHITOCHES - Kristen Holley thought long and hard before she decided to enter the Miss Northwestern Lady of the Bracelet Scholarship Pageant. Holley, an elementary education major from Waskom, Texas, had never entered a pageant before. But her decision turned out to be the right one as Holley won the 43rd annual pageant and will represent Northwestern State University in June's Miss Louisiana Pageant.
Holley won the talent competition and the Liz Carroll People's Choice Award selected by the audience. Amaris Davidson of Leesville was first runner-up. Crystal Whitman of Shreveport was second runner-up. Rachael Morgan of Quitman was third runner-up and Shelli Briery of Vivian was fourth runner-up.
Throughout the competition, Holley had one of the most vocal cheering sections urging her on.
"Having those people behind you helps a lot," said Holley. "There is a fear of the unknown when you step out there. But when people who know you and love you support you, it gives you a spark."
Holley is a member of Phi Mu Fraternity. A President's List student, she is a member of Kappa Delta Pi and the Order of Omega. Holley has also been a freshman connector and a presidential ambassador. She is also in the University Choir and the Women's Choir.
"I really love Northwestern. It has great faculty and people and this gives me another opportunity to let others know about Northwestern," said Holley. "I've tried to get involved in organizations since I got here. It's easy to just go to class and go back to the dorms and not do anything without your parents pushing you. Getting involved is the key to being successful here. Being a part of organizations gives you another support system."
Holley's platform issue is "Self-Esteem Awareness for Youth."
"While working in the classroom, I've seen the impact low self-esteem can have on children," said Holley. "Low self-esteem can lead to problems with drugs, alcohol and violence."
Holley plans to work with Club K Kids, an organization chartered through Kiwanis International. The organization hopes to set up mentoring and tutoring programs with children in the Natchitoches area. Holley already works as a tutor three times a week.
"I'm really excited to be involved with children. This is something I had planned to do regardless of how I did in the pageant," said Holley. "I hope I can help in some way to also encourage parents. Teachers can only do so much. Parents are the role models that children need."
The pageant is sponsored by NSU's Student Activities Board. As the winner, Holley received a one-year full scholarship, textbooks, meal plan, $500 and a free trip to the Miss Louisiana Pageant.