Miss HU 2010-2011 wins first runner up in Miss Virginia Pageant

Desiree Williams

Miss HU 2010-2011 wins first runner up in Miss Virginia Pageant

Miss Hampton University 2010-2011 and current HU Physical Therapy Graduate Student, Desiree Williams, was first runner up in June’s Miss Virginia Pageant. Williams was one of 12 young women, and eventually a final five, who vied for the pageantry title in Roanoke, Va.

Williams served as Miss Peninsula prior to running for the Miss Virginia crown. College of William and Mary Student Rosemary Willis won the Miss Virginia title. If Willis becomes unable to fulfill her duties, Williams would take the position. 

“Making it so far in the Miss Virginia pageant, and all the while representing the Peninsula and Hampton University, was a thrill and an honor,” Williams said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to have competed with such wonderful ladies, including another Hamptonian.”

Miss Hampton-Newport News, Phyllicia Whittingham, who earned her MBA from HU in May, was also a Miss Virginia contestant.

Dr. Shelia Maye, executive director of the Miss HU Scholarship Pageant, said Williams is deserving of her title.

The pageant consisted of a private, 10-minute interview, talent, swimwear, eveningwear and an on stage question. Williams also won the preliminary contest in the swimsuit and academic competitions.

"Our Miss Hampton 2010-2011, Desiree Williams, was my unbiased choice to win the Miss Virginia Pageant,” Maye said. “She displayed excellence in her exceptional intellect, talent, life style and fitness, and exemplified the elegant poise, grace and beauty not only of a Miss Virginia, but of a Miss America. She is truly the epitome of the ‘Hampton Woman.’ I congratulate her and wish her success in all future endeavors.”

Leha Byrd