(PR Newswire) — “It’s truly befitting that we hold the national pageant this year in the nation’s capital. In the spirit of the First Lady Michelle Obama, this year’s contestants truly embody her legacy since 75% of our contestants are in graduate or professional school. Our contestants truly are the ‘next generation of first ladies!'” said Karen Arrington, Founder/CEO.
Miss Black USA (MBUSA) pageant is not just another beauty pageant. Examples are Miss Black District of Columbia, who is a practicing Pharmacist; Miss Black Michigan, who is pursuing a PhD in Neuroscience; and Miss Black Pennsylvania, who has a degree in Osteopathic Medicine.
MBUSA has been revolutionizing pageantry since 1986 as the preeminent pageant for women of color ages 18-27. MBUSA promotes education by giving scholarships to its winners.
Celebrities and political leaders will participate in the pageant’s week long activities. The Honorary Host Committee includes members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) such as Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-9), Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. (IL), Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (MD-7), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), andCongressman Donald Payne (NJ-10).
Judges include Roger Bobb, Producer (Tyler Perry Studios); Nakia Sanford, Washington Mystics (WNBA); Derrick Rutlege, Celebrity Make Up Artist (First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey), Edwin Avent, Publisher (Heart & Soul magazine); andNikki Kimbrough, Fitness Expert.
Official sponsors include Tyler Perry Studios, Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, W Hotels, Ame’ Cosmetics, andHeart & Soul magazine.
The week will commence with a Red Dress VIP Reception at the “W” Hotel on Wednesday, August 4 (7-9:30pm) inWashington, DC to raise awareness of heart disease. Special guest Bruce Johnson – Emmy award winning anchor (WUSA Channel 9 News) and heart attack survivor – will be signing copies of his book “Heart to Heart”.
The 23rd annual final competition on Monday, August 9 (7:30pm) takes place at the historical Lincoln Theatre. Special guests will grace the Red Carpet (6:30pm). Deya Smith, former MBUSA 1994 and Senior Producer (Tom Joyner Morning Show), will host. Press conference will follow the crowning of the new queen.
Talented Teen Pageant, alongside MBUSA pageant, is Sunday, August 8 (5:30pm) at the Gaylord National Resort in Prince George’s County, MD.
