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Krewe of GSU

The coronation of Miss Grambling State University was on Sept. 17 in T.H. Harris Auditorium. 

The newly crowned Joiya Smith began her night with a Mardi Gras theme, and an exquisite entrance, with a second line, emulating New Orleans’ famous parade tradition.  

Smith entered on a float and was presented as Miss Grambling State University 2015-2016. 

KEION HAYES/The Gramblinite Joiya Smith, Miss GSU 2015-2016, descends the stairs at her coronation surrounded by her Mardi Gras Krewe.

KEION HAYES/The Gramblinite
Joiya Smith, Miss GSU 2015-2016, descends the stairs at her coronation surrounded by her Mardi Gras Krewe.

Smith led the Krewe of Tigers: The Royal Gala, the theme of the evening that was a very special occasion and elegant night.  

The Miss Grambling coronation experience “was once-in-a-lifetime, being selected to even having this role of position and having my Royal Court behind me,” Smith said, who expressed her thanks to the Coronation Committee for making the event “beautiful.”

“Some of the campus queens say it was like I married the school and I definitely feel that way,” Smith said. “Overall it was an amazing experience and I loved every second”. 

The Mardi Gras Theme for Coronation was in honor of Miss Grambling’s late uncle David Davis.  “He was an incredible person and had such a beautiful spirit. He really loved Mardi Gras, and it was not until his death I realized I was in love with the celebration. 

“My uncle made me realize that life is a celebration and you have to live your life to the fullest every day.” 

The coronation was a gorgeous and unforgettable night at Grambling State University.  

“The coronation was everything I imagined and more, especially my entrance,” Smith said. “I was in love with my entrance.” 

Who wouldn’t be, with Mardi Gras Indians as part of the celebration? 

“I really wanted the South Louisiana culture involved. 

“It was exciting to know that the students could relate to the theme and share the experience with me,” said Smith.

Johnathan Wallace, Student Government Association president, served as the queen’s escort.