By: Shayla Terry

On Saturday night, sophomore Natalie Kennedy was crowned Miss Crenshaw Christian Academy 2017.

“I’ve gone to CCA my whole life,” Kennedy said. “I’ve just always dreamed of being Miss CCA. Former Miss CCAs are all intelligent and successful women, and I really wanted to be a part of that group.”

Kennedy has a history with the pageant. She is a former Little Miss CCA. When not donning a crown, Kennedy participates in CCA’s Student Government Association, and Interact Club, which serve through the Luverne Rotary Club.

Participants have been rehearsing since late January for the pageant.

“It was really fun going to the school every Sunday to practice,” Kennedy said. “It was good being around my friends, and enjoying the experience.

This year’s pageant theme was “Air Crenshaw.” Contestants were judged based on interview, talent, and evening gown.

“I liked every category, even though interview made me nervous,” Kennedy said.

For talent, Kennedy performed a tap number.

“I’ve been dancing since I was 3 years old,” she said. “It was really fun getting to learn my tap dance, and performing it.

Kennedy not only won the official title, but also won every competitive category. “We all had fun,” she said. “We all are really supportive of each other, and went out of the way to uplift each other.”

Though only a sophomore, Kennedy plans to attend the University of Alabama, and become a dermatologist.