Meet the New Mister and Miss Augusta University
By CM Wahl // Managing Editor
A new Mister and Miss Augusta University have been crowned. This year’s pageant had seven women and four men competing for the coveted titles in categories such as evening wear, strength, and talent. In the end, Quintus Williams and Alyssa Pearson were announced as this year’s winners, respectively.
“This opportunity has been such a blessing,” said Pearson, “and I am so thankful for the opportunity to represent this university well.”
Pearson is a junior and transfer student majoring in Nursing. She will now go on to represent the school at the Miss Georgia competition, locally hosted events like the Jag Gala and as a spokesperson for the student body.
“I have loved being in the position so far,” she said. “I have had so many opportunities to meet and interact with people in addition [to] seeing myself become more comfortable in this school environment as a transfer student.”
Pearson plans to promote her community service initiative “Serving Through Self-Defense” as well, so she can bring awareness to the AU community about the value and importance of being able to defend one’s self.
“Self-defense is a great way to take control of what you can in an unpredictable world,” she said. “Through my community service initiative… I intend to give everyone, especially women, that control back, as well as build community relationships and personal resilience.”
Pearson also took home an award for Best Talent after her display of defensive maneuvers and board-breaking. Her fellow contestants showcased other talents including dance, poetry, song and flag-throwing.
Likewise, Williams, the first freshman to run in the pageant’s history, was awarded Best Talent for his spoken word piece. He also won the People's Choice Award and Best On-Stage Question.
“Since I won, I’ve hit the ground running,” he said. “My responsibilities as Mister Augusta University include representing myself, my university, my culture, my family and most importantly, my peers with dignity, respect, class and decorum.”
Williams intends to make his community service initiative “Pillars of Promise: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders” relatable, especially for the current freshman class.
“I aim to support first-generation African American male and female students,” he said, “as well as students from other minority backgrounds. I want to provide guidance that will not only get them through college but also life beyond.”
One approach he’s taking is through a mental health campaign inspired by the TikTok dance “Tripping Out” in order to help students manage stress and redirect anger. He also intends to emphasize the importance of “accountability in academics, friendships and life in general.”
“Winning this title has been incredible, but it hasn’t come without challenges. Some may feel a freshman shouldn’t have won, but I believe change is essential!” said Williams. “I put in the work, showed dedication and had the drive to succeed, and I’m honored to have achieved this.”
Both winners received substantial scholarships to help with school expenses and will utilize the opportunity afforded them to represent the school through example, encouragement and empowerment of the student body.
Contact CM Wahl at cwahl@augusta.edu.