OSU crowns 2024 Mr. and Miss Black OSU

Thursday, February 29, 2024

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

Oklahoma State University highlighted its student community during the annual Mr. and Miss Black OSU pageant on Saturday, Feb. 24. The event, hosted by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, named Albony Bryles and Toni Purnell as the new royalty.

Bryles, a sophomore from Moore, Oklahoma, and Purnell, a junior originally from Chicago but raised in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, both emerged victorious after a night of showcasing their talents, academic achievements and commitment to community service.

For Bryles, the most significant lesson learned was about mental fortitude. 

"There were many ups and downs," she said, "So staying confident was difficult at times." 

Bryles, a biology pre-med major, aspires to be a doctor and is passionate about ensuring comprehensive and equitable health care for Black college students.

Purnell, driven by his personal experience navigating the intersection of race and sexual orientation, will focus his reign on uplifting and elevating the LGBTQ+ Black student body. "There is nothing that filled my heart more than seeing my community cheer me on," said Purnell, a film major. “It inspired me more throughout the night to give everything I had into the performance. Now that I am Mr. Black OSU, I plan to give back everything to them.”

Both Bryles and Purnell plan to leverage their platforms to create dialogue, organize events and raise awareness within the OSU community and beyond.

Beyond their pageant involvement, Bryles enjoys playing basketball, spending time with loved ones and photography. She's also a member of OSU's Honors College and a research assistant. 

Meanwhile, Purnell finds solace in filmmaking, exploring diverse cultures and indulging in his love for Thai food. He credits Tara Lenertz, a coworker and former instructor, as a source of inspiration for her kindness and unwavering support.

Freshman Kennedy Dixon was the runner-up for Miss Black OSU.

The Mr. and Miss Black OSU pageant celebrates talent and culture and is a platform for amplifying voices and fostering positive change. 

"I am excited to be your 2024 Mr. Black OSU,” Purnell said. “My reign will be dedicated to ensuring everyone has their voices not only heard but listened to.”

Story By: Mak Vandruff | makenzie.vandruff@okstate.edu