Miss Gardner-Webb Pageant Set for March 2, Showcasing Talent and Confidence

Seven Contestants to Compete in Annual Event Celebrating Empowerment and Community

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The stage is set for an exciting evening as seven contestants compete in the annual Miss Gardner-Webb Pageant on Sunday, March 2, at 3 p.m.The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place in Dover Theatre and promises a dazzling display of talent, confidence, and camaraderie.

The pageant will open with a choreographed dance routine, created by Reagan Knapp, Student Engagement graduate assistant. The performance is designed to highlight the individuality and energy of each contestant.

“Reagan carefully crafts an amazing dance that showcases each contestant in such a fun way,” said Hope Saunders, a 2018 Gardner-Webb alumna and assistant director of Student Engagement. “I don’t want to spoil the surprise, but the song we’ve selected is the perfect blend of confidence, high energy, and female empowerment! I can’t wait to see the audience’s and judges’ reactions when the contestants take the stage for the first time.”

A Celebration of Talent and Growth

From speed painting to choreographed dance performances, the Miss Gardner-Webb Pageant is known for its diverse and breathtaking talents.

“I am confident the audience and judges will be impressed with the contestants and their unique skills,” Saunders said.

Beyond competition, the pageant fosters strong connections and personal growth. Contestants often begin as strangers but form friendships throughout rehearsals and preparation that last beyond graduation.

“They become each other’s biggest cheerleaders,” Saunders shared. “Watching their confidence grow from the first practice to pageant day is one of the most rewarding parts of this event.”

Meet the Contestants

This year’s contestants represent a variety of academic disciplines and hometowns:

• Amber Jimenez, of Lincolnton, N.C., a freshman nursing major, Spanish minor.
• Riley Johnson, of Rutherfordton, N.C., a senior elementary education major.
• Vicky Robinson, of Ash, N.C., a freshman psychology major, biblical studies minor.
• Gracie Tipton, of Burnsville, N.C., a senior elementary education major, psychology minor.
• Lys Ishiari, of Charlotte, N.C., a junior management information systems major.
• Annabelle McDonald, of Apex, N.C., a junior computer science major, psychology minor.
• Kylee Morris, of Morehead City, N.C., a junior biology major with a concentration in biomedical science and minors in psychology and chemistry.

Saunders encourages the campus community, alumni, and local supporters to attend. “We would love to see a packed house full of supportive friends and families,” she said.

Chloe Cloutier, a senior communication studies major, contributed to this story.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.