about US
Founded in 1987 by philanthropist and award-winning author Karen Arrington, the Miss Black USA Pageant is a prestigious platform that celebrates the brilliance, beauty, and limitless potential of Black women. As a trailblazing organization, we have established ourselves as a beacon of empowerment and inspiration, transforming the lives of countless women across the nation.
Our pageant, originally established in the state of Maryland, has grown and evolved over the years to encompass three divisions that cater to the diverse experiences and aspirations of our remarkable contestants. We have the Miss division, open to women ages 19 to 27, the Ms. division for women ages 28 to 45, and the Talented Teen division for young women ages 14 to 19.
Scholarships are an integral part of our mission, and we are proud to have awarded over $700,000 in life-changing scholarships to date. As a testament to our commitment to education, our Miss winner is granted a prestigious full ride merit scholarship to the University of the District of Columbia, which can be utilized for undergraduate, graduate, or law school studies. Additionally, our Talented Teen winner receives an annual full ride tuition scholarship to Delaware State University..
Miss Black USA 2023
Ariel Thompson, an Executive M.B.A. student from Louisville, Kentucky, captured the national crown, which was broadcast live on Fox Soul and Fox 5 Plus.
OUR MISSION
At Miss Black USA Pageant, our mission is to empower and celebrate the brilliance, diverse beauty, and limitless potential of Black women across the nation. We are dedicated to providing a transformative platform that amplifies their voices, uplifts their communities, and paves the way for their success.
Scholarships play a pivotal role in our mission, as education is at the core of our values. We believe in the power of education to unlock opportunities and transform lives. That is why we are committed to providing life-changing scholarships to deserving winners, enabling them to pursue their academic aspirations and achieve their dreams.
Through our unwavering dedication and support, we aim to inspire, uplift, and empower Black women as they embark on their journeys of excellence. We celebrate their unique talents, accomplishments, and contributions, while challenging societal norms and redefining beauty standards.
At Miss Black USA Pageant, we strive to create a world where every Black woman feels seen, heard, and valued. We work tirelessly to break down barriers, promote inclusivity, and foster a community of support and empowerment. Together, we are building a legacy of excellence and inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.
OUR VISION
At the Miss Black USA Pageant, we envision a world where Black women are empowered, celebrated, and given the platform to excel in every aspect of life. We believe in showcasing the diverse talents, intelligence, and accomplishments of Black women, while challenging societal norms and redefining beauty standards. Through our pageant, we aim to shatter barriers, inspire future generations, and create positive change in the world.
Key Features:
Empowering Women: We strive to empower Black women by offering opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and community engagement. We believe in the power of representation and seek to amplify the voices and experiences of Black women on a national stage.
Scholarships: Education is at the core of our mission. We provide life-changing scholarships to deserving winners, enabling them to pursue their academic aspirations and achieve their dreams.
Divisional Categories: With three divisions tailored to different age groups, we ensure that women of all ages have the opportunity to participate, showcasing their unique talents, achievements, and contributions.
Prestigious Partnerships: We have established partnerships with renowned educational institutions, such as the University of the District of Columbia and Delaware State University, to offer our winners prestigious full ride scholarships.
Community Impact: We are deeply committed to making a positive impact in our communities. Our contestants actively engage in community service projects and social initiatives, driving change and uplifting those around them.
”Thanks to the Miss Black USA Scholarship Program, I was able to use the $20K scholarship I won and earn my medical degree”
- Kalilah Allen-Harris, M.D., Miss Black USA 2007
WHAT WE’VE ACHIEVED
Establish international airline partnership with Arik Air.
His Excellency Ambassador Bakari Stevens appointed the 2016 Contestants Goodwill Ambassadors of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
Landed a broadcast deal with FoxSoul.tv, a digital television network and streaming service operated by Fox Television Stations. Their programs aim to celebrate black culture.
Established a 4-year, full-tuition scholarship to the University of the District of Columbia awarded to the Winner of Miss Black USA 2022 which may be used toward an undergraduate or graduate school education.
Establish a international partnership to support girls education at the Savior Orphanage School in Ghana.
Established an endowed 4-year, full-tuition scholarship with Delaware State University for the winner of our Talented Teen division.
For the first time in history, established a 3-year, full-tuition scholarship to the David A. Clarke College of Law at the University of the District of Columbia awarded to the Winner of Miss Black USA 20223.
The first and largest scholarship pageant for women of color.
The largest single source of scholarship funding for women of color.
Awarded over $700,000 in scholarships to date.
The first and only US based national pageant to hold its’ national pageant on the continent of Africa. in 2007.
A library named in our honor at the Lower Basic Primary School in The Gambia, West Africa.
Raised awareness of the Heart Truth campaign over 70% to empower women to take care of their heart health.
Established a partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
A national minority partner of The Heart Truth, a campaign to raise awareness of heart disease, the leading cause of death of women in the U.S..
Contact Information:
For all media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:
Email: info@missblackusa.org
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