2024 Homecoming and Trojan Pride winners say goodbye to their titles

As the new Homecoming and Trojan Pride winners are crowned, the former title holders are reminiscing on their time since gaining this achievement and reflecting on the year spent with their titles.  

“I continued doing the same things that helped me earn the title in the first place,” said 2024 Homecoming King Derrick Nobles, who is a graduate student from Mobile, Alabama. “I remained committed to being a leader on campus, serving others and inspiring the next generation of students.  

“I’ve made it a priority to mentor and encourage those who’ve stepped into the positions I once held, reminding them to carry forward the same spirit of leadership and to continue inspiring those who come after them.” 

According to 2024 Homecoming Queen Madilyn Webb, a first-year medical student from Enterprise, Alabama, the title meant so much to her.  

 “It’s such a sweet reminder of all the amazing memories, friendships and learning that took place over my four years at Troy,” Webb said. “Troy is one of my favorite places in the world and, in my opinion, one of the best universities, so being a representative of our student body and alumni will always be a great honor.” 

The 2024 Trojan Pride winners are also looking back on how the year went for them. 

Jayden McQueen, the 2024 Miss Trojan Pride and senior political science major from Crestview, Florida, assisted in planning projects and events for various organizations. She also ran for the title of Miss Troy University 2026. 

“For me, showing Trojan Pride has always meant being a dedicated servant leader who is always ready to uplift our community, and I have done just that,” McQueen said. “I don’t know if there is anything specific that I will miss, but I will cherish these memories forever.” 

Isaiah Thomas, the 2024 Mr. Trojan Pride and senior global business concentration entrepreneurship major from Ozark, Alabama, spent time supporting campus events, cheering for his fellow students and connecting with groups he never thought he'd be involved with. 

“It’s given me a deeper appreciation for our Trojan community and the hard work everyone puts in,” Thomas said. “It’s like a badge of honor but also a reminder that I represent something bigger than myself.  

“Being Mr. Trojan Pride pushed me to stay true to my values but also to grow and adapt. It taught me to lead with kindness and include those around me, especially when things got tough.” 

Nobles, Webb, McQueen and Thomas said they would like to thank family, friends, mentors and the Troy University community for the journey. 

“While I will miss holding the title of Homecoming Queen, I am so excited to add a new member to the ‘family’ of Homecoming Queens and Kings,” Webb said.  

Thomas shared a similar sentiment. 

“I hope I showed that pride comes from the heart and that anyone can make a positive impact if they care enough,” Thomas said. “Don’t underestimate how much a kind word or a little effort can matter.  

“This experience taught me it truly takes all of us to make campus life great, and I’m grateful for every chance I had to be part of that. Carry Trojan pride everywhere you go.  

I know I will.” 

Moving on, the former title holders encourage the new winners to soak in every moment, stay humble, make as many connections as possible and continue being themselves. 

“Being elected Mr. or Miss Trojan Pride is more than the title; it is a call to represent something so much greater, and that is student engagement,” McQueen said. “In this role, it is less about your own Trojan Pride and more about how to get other students to experience the fun side of college that you’ve been blessed to experience.” 

Nobles also shared his advice. 

“Don’t feel pressured to change because of the title; instead, let the title amplify the greatness that’s already within you,” Nobles said. “Represent Troy University with authenticity and pride, but most importantly, stay grounded in your purpose.  

“Use this platform to uplift others, create meaningful connections and leave behind a legacy that reminds everyone that true royalty comes from service, humility and heart.”