Miss Black and Gold is an annual pageant hosted by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Contestants must have talent, poise, personality, intelligence, charm and beauty to compete and after a series of interviews, talent shows and a lineup of evening gowns, three winners are chosen.
Ariyonna Sarpy – 2024 Miss Black and Gold Winner
Ariyonna Sarpy is a junior dance major who was crowned Miss Black and Gold this year. Since becoming a demon her freshman year, Sarpy has always attended the Miss Black and Gold crowning. This year, she finally decided to compete in her first-ever pageant.
“The pageant is an amazing experience to get people out of their box and spread their wings. Everyone should strive to try new things and never be afraid. Go into everything with confidence,” Sarpy said.
Her mission statement is to make the world a better, more peaceful place. “I feel like we should take a step back and take a deep breath while we are under a lot of stress,” Sarpy said.
On campus, Sarpy is the Demon Dazzlers’ lieutenant, historian for Zeta Phi Beta sorority, Inc., and a participant in the Dance Organization of Students. Off-campus, Sarpy teaches dance classes at Renee’s Dance Studio, where she danced for 15 years until her high school graduation. She aspires to open her own creative performing arts center to inspire young kids in the art and passion of dance.
NaKeira Elizabeth White – 2024 Miss Black Winner
NaKeira Elizabeth White is a sophomore business administration major who was named Miss Black at this year’s pageant. “Winning Miss Black really showed me how much my hard work paid off,” White said.
This was White’s first pageant and she plans on competing again next year. “The Alphas just make you feel comfortable. They encouraged us to keep going and not give up,” White said.
White is an ambassador for Northwestern State University, where she often gives tours, and is involved in TRIO’s Lifted Voices and is a member of the Dance Organization of Students. White strives to never give up and works hard to accomplish her goals.
Madison Raymond – 2024 Miss Gold Winner
Madison Raymond is a junior health and exercise major with a minor in psychology and this year’s Miss Gold. Her favorite part of the pageant was the interview and evening gown because she got to showcase herself while feeling beautiful in the process. “The flow of the dress with the instrumental music in the background just puts everything together,” Raymond said.
Raymond is an NSU ambassador, vice president of La Belle Femme and president of the Health and Human Performance Leadership Club. She is also a member of the Student Government Association, the African American Caucus Club and Current Sauce. “For me, being involved means being out there networking, exploring and experiencing life,” Raymond said.
The Miss Black and Gold pageant not only showcases inspiring ladies but also gives them a platform to be their best selves and meet like-minded individuals along the way.
