Bright crowned Miss UCO

Keelee Bright was crowned ‘Miss UCO’, winning more than $3,000 in scholarship money at the 29th Annual Scholarship Pageant Jan. 22 in Mitchell Hall.

“This is one of the most prestigious pageants in Oklahoma and has a bid each year in the Miss Oklahoma pageant,” said Brooke Wilson, member of the Miss UCO Scholarship Pageant Board of Directors.

Fifteen students competed for the crown. “Just for competing, they (contestants) received $100,” said Wilson.

This is the first year each student has been given money because of fundraising and donations the pageant board was able to collect.

“Miss UCO is a pre-qualifier to the Miss Oklahoma pageant, so there are a lot of stipulations we have to meet,” said Wilson.

“We have had several students qualify in the Miss Oklahoma pageant, and Jennifer Warren was 4th runner up in last years Miss Oklahoma pageant.”

The interview portion was worth 40 percent while the talent competition was worth 30 percent. The swimsuit, evening gown and platform questions were 10 percent each.

The pageant is also sponsored financially by the university, student activity fees and ticket sales.

Tickets to the pageant were sold out and students were allowed to purchase $3 standing room only tickets. Floor seats for members of the community were $10.

Amanda Waterman, who was first runner-up and talent competition winner, was Miss UCO in 2003. Michelle McCoy was second runner-up and swimsuit competition winner. Bridget Jaime was third runner-up, and fourth runner-up was Ashley Jones.

Audrey Semore was selected Miss Congeniality by the contestants, and Dana Redd won the Ad Sales award.

Trisha Evans can be reached at tevans@thevistaonline.com.