The Miss New Bedford scholarship organization is seeking contestants for its upcoming “miss” and “teen” competitions. A local preliminary of the Miss America Organization, the competition awards college scholarships, fosters interview and public speaking skills, and empowers confidence and leadership in young women.
This year’s Miss New Bedford will win a $3,500 scholarship. Miss New Bedford’s Teen, along with runners-up in each division, will also be awarded thousands in scholarship prizes. To date, more than $220,000 in college scholarships have been awarded to area women since the program’s first competition in 1954. Annually, $10,000 in scholarships are awarded.
Both titleholders receive the year-of-a-lifetime – serving as a role model and advocating for their chosen cause throughout the Southcoast – and a chance to compete at the state competitions, and perhaps even, Miss America. Yet, regardless of the outcome, the competition is a rewarding and transformative experience for all who participate.
No experience is necessary. Contestants do not need to be New Bedford residents. Eligibility is open to women ages 14 to 27 who either live, work, or attend school in New Bedford, Acushnet, Assonet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Freetown, Lakeville, Mattapoisett, Rochester, Wareham, or Westport. As a scholarship program, entry fees are minimal. Organizers also offer a “closet” for contestants to borrow from including gowns, shoes, jewelry, and more.
Phases of competition include talent, evening wear/red carpet, lifestyle and wellness, an on-stage question, and a private off-stage interview; there is no swimsuit portion.
An info session will be held on Sunday August 24th at the Cheryl McCormack Academy of Dance, 731 Tarkiln Hill Road in New Bedford. To reserve a seat, email info@missnewbedford.org or visit www.missnewbedford.org.
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