Miss Banksofthe Wabashpageantheldat Rose- Hulman Instituteof Technology

Published in Science and Technology on Saturday, August 16th 2025 at 21:50 GMT by WTWO Terre Haute
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TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Empowering woman, encouraging growth, and creating a family are part of the Miss Banks of the Scholarship Program. Young woman from all over the state had a chance to compete in Miss Banks of the Wabash, Miss Crossroads of America, and teen competitions. Saturday's competition took place at the Rose-Hulman [ ]

Miss Banks Wabash Pageant Shines Bright in Annual Celebration of Local Talent and Community Spirit

In the heart of Wabash, Indiana, the annual Miss Banks Wabash Pageant unfolded with all the glamour, excitement, and community pride that has come to define this cherished local tradition. Held at the historic Honeywell Center on a crisp evening last weekend, the event drew hundreds of spectators, including families, friends, and local dignitaries, all eager to witness the crowning of the newest ambassadors of beauty, intelligence, and service. This year's pageant, marking its 45th iteration, continued its legacy of empowering young women while raising funds for community initiatives, blending pageantry with philanthropy in a way that resonates deeply with the residents of this tight-knit Midwestern town.

The evening kicked off with an opening ceremony that paid homage to the pageant's roots. Founded in 1978 by local philanthropist Eleanor Banks, whose name graces the event, the Miss Banks Wabash Pageant was originally conceived as a means to celebrate the achievements of young women in the Wabash Valley region. Banks, a former educator and community leader, envisioned a platform where participants could showcase not just their poise and elegance but also their intellect, talents, and commitment to public service. Over the decades, the pageant has evolved, incorporating modern elements like digital media challenges and environmental advocacy segments, while staying true to its core values. This year's theme, "Empower Tomorrow," emphasized the role of women in shaping a sustainable future, with contestants encouraged to present projects focused on community betterment.

A total of 15 contestants, aged 18 to 25, vied for the coveted title, each representing various facets of Wabash life—from college students and aspiring professionals to volunteers and artists. The competition was structured in several rounds, beginning with the evening gown presentation, where participants dazzled in flowing dresses that ranged from classic silks to contemporary designs incorporating eco-friendly fabrics. Judges, including former pageant winners, local business owners, and a guest from the Miss America organization, evaluated the entrants on grace, style, and personal expression. One standout moment came when contestant Emily Hargrove, a 22-year-old environmental science major from Manchester University, walked the stage in a gown made entirely from recycled materials, symbolizing her platform on sustainable fashion.

Following the gown segment, the talent portion brought the house down with a diverse array of performances. From vocal renditions of Broadway classics to original dance routines and even a spoken-word poetry piece addressing mental health awareness, the talents on display highlighted the multifaceted abilities of the participants. Sarah Jenkins, a nursing student, captivated the audience with her piano medley of local folk songs, earning thunderous applause and high marks from the panel. The swimsuit competition, rebranded in recent years as the "fitness and wellness" round, focused on physical health and confidence rather than mere aesthetics, with contestants sharing brief insights into their wellness routines and how they maintain balance in their busy lives.

The intellectual depth of the pageant shone through in the interview segment, where each contestant fielded questions on topics ranging from current events to personal philosophies. Moderated by local news anchor Lisa Thompson, the questions delved into pressing issues like climate change, education equity, and community resilience in the face of economic challenges. Finalist Mia Rodriguez, a first-generation college student, eloquently discussed the importance of accessible education, drawing from her own experiences growing up in a rural Indiana community. Her response, which emphasized bridging urban-rural divides through technology, resonated with the audience and judges alike, underscoring the pageant's commitment to fostering thoughtful dialogue.

As the night progressed, the field narrowed to five finalists: Emily Hargrove, Sarah Jenkins, Mia Rodriguez, Olivia Thompson, and Kaitlyn Rivera. Each delivered a final statement on their chosen platforms, which included environmental conservation, youth mentorship, mental health advocacy, STEM education for girls, and support for local arts programs. The tension built during the announcement of runners-up, with Olivia Thompson earning fourth runner-up for her passionate plea on arts funding, and Kaitlyn Rivera taking third for her work in youth empowerment.

In a moment of high emotion, Sarah Jenkins was named second runner-up, recognized for her outstanding talent and community service hours logged at local hospitals. Mia Rodriguez secured first runner-up, praised for her articulate responses and innovative platform on educational equity. Ultimately, the crown went to Emily Hargrove, whose holistic approach to sustainability and her genuine charisma won over the judges. As the new Miss Banks Wabash, Hargrove will represent the community at regional events, including the Miss Indiana competition, and spearhead initiatives like a town-wide recycling drive and workshops on eco-friendly living.

The pageant's impact extends far beyond the stage. Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships, which topped $15,000 this year, will benefit the Eleanor Banks Scholarship Fund, providing financial aid to local high school graduates pursuing higher education. Additionally, the event featured a silent auction with items donated by area businesses, from handmade quilts to gift certificates for local eateries, further boosting community engagement. Attendees raved about the family-friendly atmosphere, with children in the audience inspired by the role models before them.

Interviews with participants revealed the personal growth fostered by the experience. Hargrove shared, "This isn't just about winning a crown; it's about finding your voice and using it to make a difference. Wabash has given me so much, and now I get to give back." Former titleholders in attendance echoed this sentiment, noting how the pageant opened doors to careers in public speaking, advocacy, and leadership. Community leaders, including Mayor Scott Long, who presented the awards, highlighted the event's role in unifying Wabash during challenging times, fostering a sense of pride and togetherness.

Looking ahead, organizers are already planning for next year's pageant, with calls for more inclusive categories and virtual participation options to attract a broader pool of talent. The Miss Banks Wabash Pageant remains a beacon of empowerment, proving that in small-town America, big dreams can take flight through grace, grit, and goodwill. As the lights dimmed on this year's spectacle, the spirit of Eleanor Banks lived on, inspiring a new generation to step into the spotlight and shine.

Read the Full WTWO Terre Haute Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/miss-banks-wabash-pageant-held-232148434.html ]

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