The Miss Circle City Classic Coronation is a pageant associated with the Circle City Classic, an annual event in Indianapolis, Indiana, celebrating African American culture. It works with young high school females in the Black community to advance their skills in their academics, community service, and their leadership. Different from regular coronations, this event doesn’t focus on someone’s beauty and talents but rather celebrates their accomplishments.
Students participate in workshops that primarily focus on teamwork, communication, goal setting, etiquette, self-defense, and much more. Contestants often compete in various categories, including interviews and dance.
Participant Regina Jones ‘25 said, “The preparation was four months long with eight-hour workshops on Saturdays and two-hour dance rehearsals on Sundays. These workshops included college readiness and scholarship seminars, career preparation, and overall knowledge of how to carry oneself as a black woman in America. Most sessions included us working on our on-the-spot questions, formal presentations, grand promenade, fashion, dance, and other parts of the coronation.”
On September 22 at the Pike Performing Arts Center, Senior Regina Jones was awarded first place and received a $5,000 scholarship and a $1,000 Apple gift card, as well as being granted the opportunity to serve as an ambassador for future events and participate in community initiatives throughout the year.
Photo from Cathedral Instagram
Other students from Cathedral participated, including Amiya Bell ‘25, Leilani Jones ‘25, and Aubrey Vines ‘25. Cathedral Director of Lifelong Connections, Jean Smith ‘97, was the high school representative for these students and worked alongside them throughout the process. Smith said, “I am always so proud to see our young ladies take the stage after completing months of workshops and activities.”
Offering valuable opportunities for personal growth, community engagement, and networking, the pageant also provides scholarship opportunities and mentorship, helping young women make a positive impact in their community and grow as individuals, something those 4 Cathedral Seniors certainly didn’t take for granted.
Reflecting on her title, Jones said, “After the event, I was so grateful and honored to have been awarded the title of Miss Circle City Classic 2024. Every girl worked so hard and truly all of them are queens. I continue to have these relationships with my coronation sisters and continue to serve the Indianapolis community with this title.I look forward to mentoring the next generation of coronation girls in their journey and aiding them in forming their sisterhood.”
