The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA®), the nation’s oldest historically Black athletic conference, celebrates the 20th Anniversary of the MISS CIAA COMPETITION. Over two decades, the MISS CIAA competition has transformed into an emblem of women’s empowerment and HBCU pride. It distinguishes itself from traditional pageants by recognizing individuals who stand out in the areas of professionalism, academics, campus and community involvement, and public service; showcasing the holistic excellence of HBCU scholars dedicated to making a meaningful difference.
On March 2, 2024, during the CIAA “Super Saturday” at the Baltimore Convention Center, one conference Queen (MISS CIAA) and King (MISTER CIAA) will be crowned and presented with $2,500 scholarships. The titles are determined by a combination of various judged and non-judged components – one of which is voting. The CIAA is the only HBCU Conference with a conference Queen or King. Food Lion served as a proud sponsor of the competition since its inception up until last year and is applauded for its unwavering support over the years.
The MISS CIAA COMPETITION was originally founded by Dottie Cannon (1977 Aluma of Shaw University and 1976-77 Miss Shaw University 1976-77). She used her background in pageantry as well as her experience on the CIAA Fashion Show Committee (back when it was one of the Tournament events).
Dottie Cannon said “God gave me the vision to create a Miss CIAA pageant and to see my vision come to fruition in 1994 was a dream come true! To know that the Miss CIAA competition is forever etched in the annals of the conference brings me a lifetime of joy.”
The first competition was held in 1994 at the Lawrence Joel Coliseum in Winston Salem, NC where Mingon Turner Houston was crowned as the first Miss WSSU.
Mingon Turner Houston added, “As a WSSU cheerleader and the daughter of alumni from CIAA schools (Virginia State and Johnson C. Smith), the legacy of the CIAA has always held a special place in my heart. Being crowned the first Miss CIAA was a pivotal moment. Today, I incorporate the CIAA ideals of public service and leadership as a US Diplomat, representing HBCUs on a global stage. We live in an era of extraordinary change, and for this reason, I am grateful the Miss CIAA competition continues to recognize and support the grace, talent, and intellect needed to solve the challenges of tomorrow.” (READ MORE)
(SOURCE: CIAA)