Brooke Buckles, junior in communications, was crowned Miss Panhellenic on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at the Student Activities Center after competing in several rounds of competition.
Buckles was nominated by the sisters of Alpha Omicron Pi and competed in the pageant on their behalf.
The pageant consisted of an on-stage question, game-day attire and an evening wear portion.
Each contestant participated in an off-stage interview, which counted for part of their overall score as well.
Buckles said this was the second pageant she's ever participated in.
"When they called out my name I just stood there without moving," Buckles said. "I was so shocked that I didn’t know what to do."
Having little experience in the pageant world, Buckles said she solely focused on doing her best.
"I had told everyone that my main goal was to not fall on stage," Buckles said. "I enjoyed getting to know the other girls so much and was just honored to represent Alpha Omicron Pi."
Buckles said she credits her sorority with giving her this opportunity.
"It's such an amazing feeling to have people that believe in you, and will push to do things you never thought you could do," Buckles said. "They are the best cheerleaders, pageant moms and friends you could ask for."
Allie Jacobsen, Alpha Omicron Pi chapter president and senior in early elementary special education, said the sorority is proud to have Buckles represent them.
"We are so thrilled to see Brooke recognized as Miss Panhellenic," Jacbosen said. "Brooke Buckles is a positive example of what Greek Women should aspire to, myself included."
Jacobsen said Buckles deserves her new Miss Panhellenic title.
"She is as admired and as she is loved by AOII," Jacobsen said. "We could not be more proud of her."
2015 Miss Panhellenic Caroline Pettey said passing on her title was bittersweet.
"I forget how much I love the Panhellenic community until I'm surrounded by all the amazing women that it consists of," Pettey said. "I'm glad this experience has been one of my last memories at Auburn and I think the title is in very very good hands."
2016 is the second year the pageant has been called Miss Panhellenic after being referred to as Miss Greek Week years prior.
The change came last year when Greek Week was removed from the Panhellenic calendar, according to Director of Greek Life Jill Moore.
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