Amidst the flurry of springtime activities both on and off of the Baylor campus, students annually attend the Baylor Beauties style show.
Sponsored by Kappa Kappa Gamma, this historic pageant is one of the oldest traditions on campus, even surpassing All-University Sing.

The show kicks off with each contestant modeling a casual outfit of her choice, usually consisting of a short dress and high heels.

Next, each contestant dons a formal gown and is escorted downstage to answer a single question from her biography sheet.

As a participant in this year’s Baylor Beauty show, I can personally testify that the question-and-answer portion can be the most nerve-wracking, and also most thrilling component of the competition.

“Baylor Beauties was a great experience because I got to represent Kappa Kappa Gamma and support a great cause,” Freshman, Shields Thompson said.

Thompson was one of the twelve lucky ladies to take the title of Baylor Beauty on Tuesday night.

Some may not fully comprehend the excitement that comes with being onstage or working a crowd; Kappa’s pageant does not solely revolve around recognizing Baylor’s most beautiful and accomplished women, though.

All of the proceeds from Baylor Beauties go to support Compassion Ministries, a transitional housing facility for the homeless population of Waco. The more people that attend the style show, the more money is raised for the philanthropy, so student organizations attend the function in droves.

“It was really cool to see all of my friends on stage representing their sororities with such class and poise while also having a great time,” Freshman Hannah Wilson said.

It was truly wonderful to experience a showcase of beautiful young women not only representing their organization, but Compassion Ministries as well.

When the judges announced the top twelve winners ranging from each class, the crowd whooped and hollered for their friends and relatives.

“There is truly no better feeling than giving back to the community, and it’s great to have fun while you’re doing it,” Freshman Victoria Rutledge commented, “Sharing this experience with my friends in other sororities conveyed our Greek unity to the entire Baylor campus, and it was a proud moment for all of us.”