After a fun-filled evening of pageantry and performances, LaMonee Morris, a University of the Virgin Islands psychology major, was crowned Miss UVI 2024 on Saturday, April 6, in the Cafetorium on the university’s Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix.
“It fills me with immense pride that I got the opportunity to be crowned, not only the 44th Miss UVI, but the last Miss UVI as our president, Dr. David Hall is exiting this illustrious institution,” said Morris, 21, a junior who is also working toward a minor in dance. “Becoming Miss UVI has always been a dream of mine since I entered the university in Spring of 2021.”
During her reign, Morris, who is a passionate culture bearer, will be implementing her platform of “Keeping Virgin Islands Culture Alive Through HBCU Pride,” which she has been doing through her two organizations, the UVI Cultural Titans and UVI Twirlettes. UVI’s Cultural Titans started as a mocko jumbie workshop which gave Morris the opportunity to engage and interact with local and international university students while educating them about the art of stilt walking and the significance to Virgin Islands culture. The UVI Twirlettes perform at various university events. Morris is the group’s captain.
“Becoming Miss UVI gives me the opportunity to not only serve as an ambassador of this institution but to also serve as an advocate and a voice for my fellow students,” said Morris. “I want to leave a legacy of encouraging students to embrace their talent and enhance their leadership skills.”
During Saturday’s competition, Morris earned the titles Best Talent, Best Evening Wear and Most Intellectual Speaker, a title that she cherishes as it celebrates her growth in public speaking.
MiLisa Mercado, a 20-year-old sophomore majoring in nursing, was named first runner-up. She also won the titles of Best Ambassadorial Presentation, Miss Photogenic and Miss Popularity. Mercado attends UVI on the Albert A. Sheen Campus.
The theme of this year’s competition was “I Am HBCU Excellence.” As the goodwill ambassador for the university, Miss UVI plays a vital role in recruitment efforts, representing the university locally and internationally, and maintaining a prominent presence on both campuses. The contestants are evaluated on their intellect, language usage, fluency, deportment, auditability and content.
The winner is awarded a full academic year of UVI tuition, including room and board, along with other exciting prizes.
