West Chester University (WCU) student Madelyn Rowan was crowned Miss West Chester University 2023 during the 24th live competition held on Saturday, Feb. 4. Rowan is an International Business and Supply Chain Management dual major from Lake Wynonah, Pennsylvania. Julie Stinson, Miss WCU 2022, completed her final duty after her year of service by placing the 2023 crown on Rowan.

“I am beyond honored to be Miss WCU 2023,” said Rowan in an interview following the ceremony. “This experience is so amazing and I can’t wait to see where this year takes me. Thank you to everyone who mentored, encouraged, and inspired me.”

Rowan will spend the upcoming year promoting her platform, Sharing to the Shelters, focusing on donating supplies to local animal shelters in the area as well as representing West Chester University in the greater community.

Kelly Moyer, WCU’s coordinator for spirit and traditions and the advisor for Miss WCU, said, “It was absolutely incredible to see so many talented, bright, and passionate young women competing for the title of Miss WCU 2023. I’m honored to serve as the new advisor and am looking forward to an exciting year working together with Madelyn.”

Participants competed in a pre-interview with judges as well as an interview on stage during the competition, which included talent, casual wear, and evening gown categories. Judges also considered each contestant’s ability to represent West Chester University during the upcoming year.

This year’s 12 contestants received these accolades:

• Interview and Talent Awards: Kamille Dombrowski from Lancaster, PA
• Academic and Community Service Awards: Korryn Wingertsahn, a WCU gymnast
• People’s Choice Award: Jaden Callands, an exercise science major
• Congeniality Award: Madelynn Singer from Halifax, PA
• Spirit Award: Arista Danise, who focused on promoting Best Buddies
• Women’s Empowerment Award: Lianelys Mestres Rivera, a biology major from West Deptford, NJ.

In addition to Rowan, top five awards and placements went to Stella Downey, Lianelys Mestres Rivera, Meghan Becker, and Brielle Wells.

Overall, more than $3,000 was awarded to this year’s contestants. The contest celebrates WCU students across the campus, focusing on community service, leadership, and scholarship. The 2023 event was hosted by WCU alumna Noni Diarra and featured performances from Under A Rest A Capella, WCU Cheerleading, and Julie Stinson, Miss WCU 2022.

Miss WCU was created in 1998-1999 as a residence hall activity at Killinger Hall and has since grown to a full-scale production and show that fills Asplundh Concert Hall. Since its development, the Miss WCU Scholarship Organization has provided close to $60,000 in scholarships to nearly 500 WCU women who have since become successful professionals.

Learn more at West Chester University.