By Joice M. Dunn
As Miss Juneteenth Pageant got underway Friday, June 12, the theme: “Crowned in Culture: The Magic Within” showed up in all 11 contestants. Each participant brough something unique as she made her appearance on the stage before a crowed audience.
Adarian D. Williams served as the master of ceremony, keeping the audience engaged. Williams is a higher education leader, public affairs professional, strategic communicator, artist, and proud two-time alumnus of Grambling State University. A native of Simsboro, he serves as Deputy Chief of Staff & Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Grambling, where he supports executive leadership, presidential communications, institutional messaging, strategic marketing, stakeholder engagement, and initiatives that advance the University’s mission and visibility.
Miss Juneteenth of 2025, Aubrey Champion, led the audience in “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Williams pulled the audience in by allowing them to express who they were supporting throughout the pageant. The 11 contestants displayed their skills as they modeled, showcased their talent and expressed themselves.
Entertainment was provided by Cathy Holmes Giles with a melody of old Negro Spirituals. Dr. Nanthalia McJamerison stepped on stage with an uplifting poem.
While the judges counted their ballots to give the audience three 2026 winners, Little Miss Juneteenth, Miss Junior Juneteenth and Miss Juneteenth of 2025 took their final walk and gave a few encouraging words to their succors.
Pageant Judges included Phaedra Burks-Blake, a proud native of Grambling, is a passionate educational leader, advocate, and servant leader who has dedicated more than two decades to empowering students, supporting educators, and strengthening school communities. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in P-12 Education Administration.
Kindrell Lamont Plains is a dedicated higher education professional, fraternity leader, mentor, and servant-leader whose life’s work has centered on uplifting students, strengthening communities, and advancing leadership through service. Originally from Ferriday, Plains has built a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to student development throughout the state of Louisiana and beyond. A proud graduate of Grambling State University, Plains earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Political Science Pre-Law before later completing a master’s degree in Developmental Education in 2014.
Dr. Sharonda Cage Hatter is a dedicated educator, servant leader, and woman of faith. She is married to James Hatter and is the proud mother of three daughters – Brenaja, ShaBrea, and Justice – and a loving grandmother of five. Dr. Hatter serves as an Associate Professor at Grambling State University, where she is committed to empowering and inspiring students through higher education. She is a proud graduate of both Grambling State University and Walden University. Grounded in her Christian faith, Dr. Hatter is a faithful member of Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ, where she continues to serve with compassion, excellence, and integrity Amanda Marcel is originally from Homer and has proudly called the Ruston/Grambling area home for the past 19 years.
Dr. Fredrick L. Pinkney, a certified career educator with experience as a classroom teacher, building level and central administrator. Dr. Pinkney earned a doctorate in Developmental education in 2001, a master’s degree in Guidance Counseling in 1997, and a bachelor’s degree in Business Education in 1994 all from GSU. Dr. Pinkney is a member of Phi Delta Kappa, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Grambling University Alumni Association.
The winners for 2026 were:
Little Miss Juneteenth Loyalty Green
1st runner up Skylar Patterson
2nd runner up Gracie Murdock
Junior Miss Juneteenth Jada Brown
1st runner up Kendall Livingston
Miss Juneteenth Micah Loud.
1st runner up Aeva Citizen
2nd runner up Kayden Walker