National Council of Negro Women honors high school senior in 'Princess for a Day' Contest

Prom is quickly approaching, and the economy remains in a slump.  

Many hopeful high school female seniors are anticipating memories of their special night; however, some of these students will need financial help preparing for their special occasion.

The National Council of Negro Women's Chapter at Winston-Salem State created "A Princess for a Day,"  program to help a senior female in a Winston-Salem/Forsyth County High School during prom season.  

The main goal of "A Princess for a Day" is to help girls find confidence that will stay with them long after the prom is over.  

The 2010 winner of "A Princess for a Day" was Julisa Wright, a senior at RJ Reynolds High School.  

"I'm so excited to be the winner," Wright said. "Now, I am going to look and feel better about my big night."  

The "A Princess for a Day" vision was created by WSSU mass communications alumna, Crystal Winston, who was president for NCNW during her senior year, 2008-2009.

"I remember preparing for prom and wanting that night to be perfect," Winston said. 

"I believe that young females need to have extra support in preparations so their fantasy can be fulfilled."  

Glenn, Reynolds, Carver, and Atkins high schools were given applications for senior females planning to attend prom.  To be eligible,  applicants had to be seniors graduating in the spring, with a GPA of 2.5 or better.  They had to complete an application and submit it with a transcript and essay attached.  

Each packet was reviewed and voted on by the executive board members of NCNW.  Wright received a dress, makeup, a hair style, manicure and pedicure, shoes and accessories.  

The WSSU chapter of NCNW is composed of 26 female students advised by  Jacqueline Bethea. Bethea is a computer science lecturer and graduate program assistant.

 The chapter's 2009-2010 president is Victoria Myatt, a senior finance major.

"Our organization is passionate about contributing to the black community and uplifting black women makes a difference," Myatt said.  

"I am passionate about our program and being a part of one of the few organizations that targets women and their needs."