University Star

Her expression was full of shock and surprise when they called her name. She never thought of holding the crown and sash. Whitney Miller was named Miss Texas United States 2012.

The Miss Texas United States Pageant was held on Oct. 9 in Corpus Christi. Women spent months preparing by finding dresses, accessories and perfecting talents. For Whitney, it was a decision two weeks prior to the competition.

“I didn’t want anything to do with pageants,” said Miller, communication studies senior. “But I felt like I would regret not trying, so I started the process of getting ready.”

The pageant was held in the middle of the semester. Miller had to prepare for the pageant while juggling everday tasks.

“I had to pretty much borrow all the clothes from friends. I didn’t have time to search and alter a whole wardrobe,” Miller said. “I had a paper and two exams that week, and two more exams the week after.”

As the competition came closer, she grew more excited about it especially when her family became involved.

“We aren’t super close and my family is all over, even in Europe,” Miller said. “So to hear not only was my mom coming, but some aunts and uncles too was a big surprise.”

Miller’s friend and 2011 Miss Texas United States brought up the idea. She said Whitney had what the pageantry was looking for.

“The pageant is built around community service with any environment or culture in mind, and her heritage fits that description,” Leslie Amos, radiation therapy junior, said. “Whitney is a go-getter, and her personality made her stand out from the other girls.”

Miller is involved with Communications Club, Diamond Sweethearts and was on the Dean’s List. She also wake-surfs and was a three-time champion at Waketober Fest.

“There wasn’t a beach near my college, and a lot of my friends were into it,” Miller said. “Before I knew it a company from California sponsored me, and I might design my own wakeboard.”

Miller said she is interested in running, hunting and fishing. Since she will be graduating in December, she is currently interested in job hunting.

One of the responsibilities of being crowned is to go around Texas supporting charities and organizations. As Miss Texas United States, Miller speaks for the Humane Society, Heifer International and the SurfRider Foundation.

She recently went to Great Oaks Elementary School to talk to the fourth grade about staying in school and the importance of education.

“Whitney and the kids were very excited,” Sarah Palacios, Miller’s friend, said. “The kids asked funny questions, like ‘Are those real diamonds in your crown?’ and ‘Do you have a bodyguard?’”
Amos said she knew Miller was right for the pageant not just because of her personality and smile, but reasoning as well.

“Most girls want the crown; all the glitz and glamour,” Amos said. “Whitney was going not for the crown, but the opportunity. She wanted to compete for the right reasons.”

Before being crowned, Miller won the Miss Swimsuit Award. She said she didn’t think of winning the crown after that.

“I was so surprised when they called my name, I even did a little happy dance,” Miller said. “I’m excited not only because I won, but I showed people that you can be exactly what you are and succeed in anything.”