BOILING SPRINGS, NC – It was a special night on the campus of Gardner-Webb University for eight young ladies during the third annual Miss Gardner-Webb Pageant.
The event was held Sunday, January 21 in front of a nearly capacity crowd in the Dover Theatre, LYCC.

When it was all said and done, Heather Bartlett from Trinity, NC was crowned the third ever and new Miss Gardner-Webb.   Bartlett is the daughter of Robin Bartlett-Beck and Ricky Bartlett.  She’s currently in her junior year, majoring in Theatre Arts with a minor in Religious Studies.  For her victory, Miss Gardner-Webb received $700.00, the crown, sash, a plaque, and last but not least flowers.   Bartlett’s platform for the pageant was Christians in the Arts.  She also received the night’s most talented award.

The eight contestants competing for the title were judged by a distinguished group of judges in such categories as business and formal wear, talent, and questions regarding their chosen platform.

This year’s theme was “Beauties on Broadway,” and featured an opening number by all the participants that was inspired and choreographed by Beth Bradley of the Academy of Performing Arts in Shelby.  The overall theme for the program was the brainchild of M’lissa Lawrence, Director with help from the GWU Student Entertainment Association.

First runner-up was Megan Lane of Gahanna, Ohio, who also was voted most photogenic.  Andrea Garrison of Graham, NC was voted second runner-up.  The award for Miss Congeniality went to Randi Gill-Sadler of Charlotte.

The other contestants who took part in this year’s event and made it such a success were Christina Baldetti, Chelsea Cote, Rhea Gaines, and Erin Roper.