Rhyanna Burks
The 95th Miss Southern University A&M College, Gala Juliette Marcus, smiles as she takes her first walk at the Royal Coronation Met Gala On October 15th at the F.G. Clark Activity Center
As we continue to celebrate Southern Universities’ annual Homecoming this week, Wednesday evening was the well anticipated crowning of the 95th Miss Southern, Gala Juliette Marcus. The event brought together current and former members of the Royal Court, students, and alumni to witness the addition to Southerns beloved tradition. The evening was filled with talent and grace, capturing the true spirit of Jaguar pride.
The Coronation commenced with an array of captivating dance performances from students in the Southern University dance department and the Golden Bluez. These students graced the stage with poise, precision, and elegance setting the tone for the beautiful evening. Once the performances concluded, the members of the 2025-2026 Royal Court did their infamous walk, making their grand entrance. The Miss’s glittering and glowing in their long formal gold dresses, and the Misters charming in their tailored nude suits. Each member of the court took to the stage for their ceremonial walk, officially marking the beginning of the evening’s royal presentation. The last to walk before Miss Southern was her Royal Escort, Kristian Coleman the President of Men’s Federation.
Then, the music shifts and the lights brighten, and everyone’s eyes are drawn to the right side of the room. The crowd swept with excitement as the 95th Miss Southern Gala Juliette Marcus, made her entrance. She walked out with grace and poise, stunning the audience in a dazzling white, glittering gown that shimmered under the lights. Her radiant smile, as bright as the sun, lit up the room and embodied the elegance and pride of the evening. Once she reached the center of the floor, the ceremony continued. Southern University Chancellor Pierre, alongside the 88th Miss Southern, Darby A. Smith, and the 94th Miss Southern, Faith V. Woods, stepped forward to do the honors. Together, they took part in the symbolic passing of the crown. Crowning the 2025-2026 95th Miss Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College Gala, Juliette Marcus.
“Coronation is always the most nerve wracking event of the homecoming week for Miss Southern. I love being a calm and support for the current Miss Southern the night of coronation, as a former Miss Southern (2018-2019 ) It’s such a special moment and core memory that lives forever in my heart every year as I remember my own coronation— a night where dreams come true,” stated Smith.
At that defining moment, Gala J. Marcus was crowned; she proceeded to take her first walk as the crowned queen, as the announcer did her introduction. Reciting her many accolades, such as holding an Associate’s degree from Albany State in a dual degree program, College of Sciences and Engineering senator in SGA 2024-2025, Secretary of Southern University chapter of NAACP, and Fall 2024 Inductee of C100, to name a few. As the 95th Miss Southern Gala J. Marcus vows to focus on empowerment, financial literacy, and community service during her reign. Completing her walk, it was now time to crown the rest of the Royal Court: Miss Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior.
“Coronation was more than just a night of crowns and gowns, it was a celebration of faith, perseverance, and community. To feel the love radiating from students, alumni, faculty, and my family reminded me why I serve. Every cheer, every tear, and every standing ovation was a reflection of the support that carried me here. I’ll forever cherish that moment as a symbol of grace under purpose, proof that when God ordains it, no one can overturn it,” stated Marcus.
The evening concluded with a touching father-daughter dance with Miss Southern, and a final dance performance with the entire Royal Court. This was an emotional event for everyone, not just the students and the Royal Court, but all those hard-working individuals behind the scenes too. The advisors, the family, and the friends who were there each day brought this event to life. This unforgettable evening will hold a special place in all our hearts and forever be a meaningful part of our Jaguar Legacy.