In a night filled with excitement and anticipation, the Vivian Watts DeShields Auditorium in the Ralph David Abernathy Hall became the stage for 12 contestants competing for the coveted title of Miss Omega Psi Phi Sept. 28.
After an evening of dazzling performances and heartfelt moments, Toimar Allen, a sophomore from Baltimore, Maryland, majoring in dance, emerged victorious, claiming the crown.
Allen, who also received a $1,000 scholarship as part of her victory, shared her vision for her reign.
“As Miss Omega Psi Phi, I plan to use my platform to collaborate with students by hosting events, community service and getting other royal courts and students outside of ASU to come together as one,” Allen said.
She also emphasized the importance of leaving a legacy, adding, “I hope to leave behind a legacy of success. I constantly remind myself that failure is not a loss but a lesson and to honestly be myself throughout the entire duration of serving as the Miss Omega Psi Phi.”
The scholarship came as a significant relief for Allen, who noted, “Due to the drastic change of me living off-campus as an underclassman, there are more things that cost more money. So, the scholarship is definitely very helpful, and I’m very thankful for it.”
The competition featured several categories, including spirit, swimsuit, talent and evening gown, culminating in a question-and-answer segment. The panel of judges included Orion Dubose, Kaila Karren, Brianna Washington and Ben Greene, while Lance Omodele, Isaiah McIntosh and Hakim Ali served as hosts for the event.
The Miss Omega Psi Phi court was rounded out with Lanasia Luster crowned as Miss Gamma Sigma, Payton Watkins as Miss Purple and Gold, Jordan Smith as Miss 1936 and People’s Choice and Kadrianne Hines as Miss Congeniality.
Luster, a freshman from Columbus, Georgia, majoring in business management, expressed her joy in placing in the pageant.
“I feel great to be Miss Gamma Sigma! It was a great experience,” Luster said. “I’m new to college, so this was a very new experience for me.”
She also encouraged future contestants to step outside their comfort zones.
“Even if you’re shy like me, just do it. You’ll grow bonds with people that’ll motivate you and push you to keep going. And never forget to be yourself and have fun with it.”
Kadrianne Hines, a freshman from York, Alabama, majoring in biology pre-health, was thrilled to be named Miss Congeniality.
“Winning Miss Congeniality means a lot to me,” Hines said. “It shows that my personality showed throughout the whole process. I’m just happy the girls got to see the real me. They are all so sweet, and they bring out the best in me,” she said. Reflecting on the camaraderie among contestants, she added, “Every rehearsal, I was so excited to see them, and I’m sure that they could tell.”
Jordan Smith, a junior majoring in biological sciences, was honored with two titles, Miss 1936 and People’s Choice.
“I just want to thank everyone who supported me throughout this journey. They kept my head from literally spinning off,” she said with a laugh, before adding, “I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me. The real work begins now!”
Pageant Director KeYana Robinson-Ali shared insights into the pageant’s structure and goals. She noted that the contestants voted on the Miss Congeniality title, while People’s Choice was determined by audience votes, with Jordan Smith receiving 40% of the 354 votes.
“The primary goal of the pageant, in my eyes, is self-esteem,” Robinson-Ali explained. “Not only was it confidence building, we aimed to make sure that the men of Omega Psi Phi knew how to exemplify and empower women in different aspects of their lives.”
Robinson-Ali also revealed the rigorous selection process the contestants went through.
“Out of the 40 women who had interviewed for the pageant, only 12 made it through the process,” Robinson-Ali said. “All contestants were required to meet certain GPA standards and pass an interview with members of Omega Psi Phi’s Gamma Sigma Chapter.”
Robinson-Ali described the contestants as a true “testament” to the growth and effort required to participate in the pageant. She reflected on a special moment before the show.
“The biggest highlight of the night happened backstage, right before the girls went on stage,” she shared. “We all held hands, and we had a group prayer right before the show. I gave the girls a pep talk expressing how proud I was, and it was an honor to witness the progress and growth of them all.”