McLean, Virginia, January 18, 2014 – On Saturday, the Miss United States Organization announced several young women who will represent Northern Virginia on their path to 2014 state contests. The winners include Bilikisu Adeyemi (Miss NOVA), Gabrielle Jackson (Miss Fairfax County), Nyasha Sprow (Teen NOVA), Elizabeth Nguyen (Ms. NOVA), and Stormy Knowles (Ms. Frederick).
The crowning took place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at Tyson's Corner. Emcees were 2013 Ms. District of Columbia United States Erika Thomas, with appearances by Miss Teen Virginia United States 2013 Jacqueline Carroll, Miss Junior Teen Virginia United States 2013 Ashton Kennedy and Little Miss Virginia United States 2013 Hannah Grau. Over 100 attendees were in attendance, with nearly 20 contestants vying for the Northern Virginia titles.
Judges evaluated the contestants through interview, swimwear, evening gown and on-stage question. Winners receive entry to their choice of 2014 state pageant and additional prizes. Judges included 2013 Mrs. District of Columbia United States Carole Clay and 2013 Little Miss United States National Director Kasey Jo Trbovich. Nearby state pageants including DC, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia 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.”
2014 state contestants will continue to apply through the coming months leading up to Virginia and District of Columbia pageants, which are held February through May. State winners receive multiple prizes and advance to the Miss United States 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 8-40. 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.