Oxon Hill, MD, October 12, 2013 – On Saturday, the Miss United States Organization announced three young women who will represent the Capital City title on their path to 2014 state contests. The winners include Keiona Williamson (Teen), LaShawn Elle White (Miss) and Jacque Wilkins (Ms.), pictured here with 2013 Miss United States Candiace Dillard (DC, Capital City).
Judges evaluated the contestants through interview, evening gown and on-stage question. Winners receive entry to their choice of 2014 state pageant and additional prizes. Judges included 2013 Mrs. DC America Meagan Barnes, 2013 Ms. Pennsylvania United States Aleshia Endy, and 2009 Miss Maryland United States Nicole Ortiz. Nearby state pageants are under the direction of 2011 Ms. United States Laura Clark.
"The MUSO is a great blend of sisterhood, style and service,” said Clark. “Each titleholder chooses her own charitable platform and focuses on making a difference in her community. We also help titleholders gain experience in fashion, media and other opportunities for career advancement.”
LaShawn Elle White, crowned 2014 Miss Capital City United States, is a freelance publicist and entertainment correspondent with DC Hot Spots. She received a degree in marketing from North Carolina A&T State University. Miss White organizes an annual DC Metro Thanksgiving Drive and enjoys coaching high school volleyball. The Miss division includes single women through age 29.
Jacque Wilkins, crowned 2014 Ms. Capital City United States, is a med student at George Washington University. She holds a nursing degree from the University of Nevada in Reno. On the morning of her crowning, Miss Wilkins completed the 2013 Baltimore Marathon. Earlier this spring, Wilkins ran in the 2013 Boston Marathon. The Ms. division includes single women through age 55.
Keiona Williamson, crowned 2014 Miss Teen Capital City United States, is a political science student at Howard University. Originally from Sacramento, California, Miss Williamson was a recipient of the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholarship. She is the community service coordinator for Jewels Incorporated, a mentorship program for girls. The Teen division includes girls age 16-19.
2014 state contestants will continue to apply through the coming months leading up to Maryland, Virginia and District of Columbia pageants, which are held February through May. The next local qualifier will be held on October 26 in Frederick, Maryland. State winners receive multiple prizes and advance to the national pageant in summer 2014. Inquiries may visit www.missunitedstates.com or contact Laura Clark at 1.855.35.GO.PRO.
ABOUT THE MISS UNITED STATES ORGANIZATION
Recently recognized as the fastest growing pageant in the nation, the Miss United States Organization provides an avenue of achievement for women and girls ages 8-55. At the local, state, and national level, the program promotes each titleholder's platform for community service while acting as a national partner with Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society. The pageant process provides a positive and memorable environment, with focus on encouragement and community. The national Miss United States contest includes the divisions of Miss, Ms., Teen, Junior Teen, Pre-Teen and Little Miss, taking place in Washington, DC during Independence Day activities. Visit www.missunitedstates.com.