Samantha Beverly Crowned New Miss UTK
The University of Tennessee student secured the title following a Multicultural Greek Council pageant.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Scholarships
Live Poll
Do you believe university-sponsored title pageants contribute positively to your campus community's shared identity?
Samantha Beverly was crowned Miss UTK during a Multicultural Greek Council pageant held at the Student Union Auditorium. The competition invited students to demonstrate their passion and poise.
Why it matters
The event was organized to foster unity and celebrate the shared identity of University of Tennessee Volunteers on campus. This crowning marks the return of the title after a 17-year hiatus.
The winner received a $500 scholarship and a gift basket, while runner-up Jenna Buck earned a $100 award. This marks the first time the title has been granted since 2009.
The players
Samantha Beverly
She is a student at the University of Tennessee who was recently crowned Miss UTK.
Multicultural Greek Council
This student-led organization at the University of Tennessee hosts community events and serves as the governing body for multicultural fraternities and sororities.
Jenna Buck
She is a University of Tennessee student who placed second in the pageant competition.
Makayla Broadnax
She is a University of Tennessee student who placed third in the pageant.
The details
Contestants were evaluated by judges on their communication skills, presentation, and confidence through talent displays. Samantha Beverly will represent the university with the title for the remainder of the year.
Timeline
The pageant was held on October 16, 2026.
The title of Miss UTK was previously awarded in 2009 and 1968.
Culture Shift
The 2026 event serves as a revival of the 2009 Miss UTK pageant. This reinstatement reflects a broader effort to revitalize student traditions that have remained dormant for nearly two decades.
Students at the University of Tennessee can look forward to the continued presence of the Miss UTK title as a recurring campus tradition. The event establishes a new opportunity for students to pursue scholarship funding through talent and communication-based competition.
The takeaway
The return of this pageant provides a platform for students to gain confidence and financial support. Participants can prepare for future iterations by refining their public speaking and talent presentation skills.
Further reading
Learn more about local academic support and funding opportunities in the Scholarships section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Beacon.
Live Poll
Do you believe university-sponsored title pageants contribute positively to your campus community's shared identity?
