Cramton Auditorium buzzed with excitement as students gathered for the Howard chapter of NAACP’s inaugural Harlem Nights Scholarship Pageant last month. Home to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s first collegiate chapter since 1909, Howard University set the stage for a celebration of Black excellence inspired by the Harlem Renaissance.

Hosted by senior journalism student Trinity Kinslow and junior finance major Jeremi Holmes, the night kicked off with a captivating opening dance, introducing the audience to the exceptional contestants—five men and four women.

In a dynamic five-stage event, contestants delivered compelling speeches to a panel of esteemed judges. The evening unfolded into a mesmerizing talent showcase featuring singing, dancing, spoken word, and more. The Biography Walk/Q&A segment allowed the nine contestants to shine, leading to special remarks before the crowning.

Sophomore Ashleigh Johnson and junior Devon Salmon emerged as the crowned Mr. and Ms. Howard Chapter NAACP, marking the end of a truly unforgettable night.

The first-ever Howard NAACP scholarship pageant left an indelible impression, showcasing the talents, excitement, and, above all, excellence of all nine contestants. The event beautifully captured the essence of the Harlem Renaissance, promising the start of a tradition with many more highly anticipated Howard Chapter NAACP Scholarship Pageants to come.