2022 Miss Black OSU crowned

Thursday, April 28, 2022

Media Contact: Jordan Bishop | Editor, Department of Brand Management | 405-744-7193 | jordan.bishop@okstate.edu

In an elegant red ball gown fit for a queen, Bobbi Jarmon gently wiped away her tears as she was crowned 2022 Miss Black Oklahoma State University on Sunday night in the Student Union Theater.

Jarmon, a junior general business major with a pre-law concentration, competed against six other contestants in six categories: private interview, platform, cultural wear, talent, formal wear and extemporaneous question. 

Starting with a vocal performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” aka the Black National Anthem, the night focused on celebrating Black history and culture. Throughout the talent and cultural wear portion of the evening, the contestants honored influential Black women such as Ruby Bridges, Missy Elliot, Madam C.J. Walker, Katherine Johnson and more. 

The pageant is a compelling way to honor and represent Black culture on campus while also helping contestants develop necessary professional skills to succeed outside of college, judge Kaileigh Johnson said.

“It’s important to have a Miss Black OSU because representation matters,” Johnson said. “It’s an awesome opportunity for these young ladies to learn interview skills, confidence and just life skills in general.” 

Along with the title and year-long reign, Jarmon won a $1,500 scholarship and the opportunity to advance her platform — mental health in the Black community. 

“I want to make sure that we are coming together as a community and actually checking on each other,” Jarmon said. “We need to speak about these issues instead of just acting like we’re OK.” 

As the pageant came to a close, reigning Miss Black OSU Becka Cammon addressed the crowd for the last time, tearfully expressing her gratitude for her father, who is a single parent and the inspiration behind her platform.

She concluded her speech by encouraging the next Miss Black OSU.

“You have been chosen for a reason,” Cammon said. “Represent this crown with pride, grace and poise. You have everything you need inside of you and an entire community standing behind you, including me.”

First runner-up Malese Pete will receive a $500 scholarship. Second runner-up Michaela Purnell will receive a $250 scholarship.

Story By: Kylee Sutherland | kysuthe@okstate.edu