While the audience cheered them on, four women and five teens in black party attire strutted across the stage during the opening number of the Miss Santa Clara and Miss Santa Clara’s Outstanding Teen competition. This annual scholarship event took place during the evening of January 11 at the Mission City Center for the Performing Arts.
Madison Givens walked home with the crown and title of Miss Santa Clara 2014, along with awards for her interview and talent. Givens performed a graceful lyrical dance to “Kiss From a Rose.” During the evening wear segment, the Santa Clara University student dazzled the audience with a radiant white gown.
“I’m still in shock, but I’m very excited,” says Givens, minutes after her crowning. “I began dancing when I was five, and it was my passion. After I had a traumatic brain injury from a cheerleading accident, I was told I wouldn’t dance again. Hearing this pushed me to dance again.”
Traumatic brain injury prevention is Givens’ platform.
“I have a booklet [called Heads Up California] that goes with my program, and I’m hoping to be able to pass out my booklet at schools and medical offices,” Givens says.
Tiah Esquibel, a Lincoln High School student, was named Miss Santa Clara’s Outstanding Teen 2014. Like Givens, she also received interview and talent awards.
“I’m really excited; this is my fourth time competing here,” says Esquibel, glowing with joy in her ruffled pastel evening gown. “I did a lyrical jazz dance [to ‘Firework.’] It’s upbeat and it highlights my capabilities.”
“My platform is promoting an active lifestyle,” Esquibel continues. “I am going to go to schools and make sure kids know how important it is to be active even if you’re not perfectly fit.”
During the talent segment, Marisa Andrade rocked the stage with a sexy Latin jazz dance. Marielle L’Heureux showed off her tumbling while dancing to “Show Me How You Burlesque.” Caroline Monahan’s bubbliness shone through while she sang and danced to “Popular.” Cheyenne Martin effortlessly carried the tune to “A Whole New World” on her trumpet.
Displaying her evening wear, Mia Stevens glided onto stage in a one-shoulder midnight blue gown. Danielle Procaccia made a splash in a white and ocean blue gown. Reina Stevens looked regal in a royal purple gown.
Donna Jones, field director of the Miss California organization, received a gift quilt and recognition for her work in the organization. Humble and moved, Jones shared that she is happy to be able to help young ladies with their educational goals.
Scholarships Awarded, Miss Santa Clara
Miss Santa Clara, $5,000- Madison Givens
First Runner Up, $1,000- Marisa Andrade
Non-Finalists (2@$500)- Reina Stevens, Marielle L’Heureux
Interview, $100-Madison Givens
Talent, $100- Madison Givens
Miss Congeniality, $100- Reina Stevens
Scholarships Awarded, Miss Santa Clara’s Outstanding Teen
Miss Santa Clara’s Outstanding Teen, $2,000- Tiah Esquibel
First Runner Up, $500- Caroline Monahan
Non-Finalists (3 @ $200)- Mia Stevens, Cheyenne Martin, Danielle Procaccia
Interview, $100- Tiah Esquibel
Talent, $100- Tiah Esquibel
Miss Congeniality, $100- Cheyenne Martin