Anna Grace Tucker named the new face of Miss Troy University

After a night of showcasing talent, beauty and brains, Anna Grace Tucker was crowned as Miss Troy University 2026 at the annual pageant in Claudia Crosby Theatre last Thursday night. 

The junior business major from Huntsville, Alabama was crowned by Miss Troy University 2025 Grace Shellhouse, Student Government Association President Caleb Smith and Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. 

“I’m so excited to be Miss Troy and to do my duties as Miss Troy this year,” Tucker said. “I love each and every one of the girls I competed with, and I’m so proud of them.  

“I know the guts it took to go out there, and I definitely formed new friends.” 

The theme for this year’s pageant was Always Troy, and 14 candidates competed for the title. The young ladies were judged on a private interview that took place before the pageant, an on-stage question, fitness, talent and evening wear. 

When it came to the on-stage question round, the candidates were able to share their community service initiatives and the meaning behind them. Some of the talents that were displayed during the talent portion included contemporary dancing, singing, painting, tap dancing and monologues.  

“This was the most amazing experience,” said Miss Troy University 2026 Second Runner-Up Ella Colagross, a freshman dance and pre-law double major from Muscle Shoals, Alabama. “The contestants are just some of the sweetest girls that I've ever met, and then actually getting to compete for the title and getting second runner up as a freshman is insanely amazing.  

“I'm definitely going to do it again next year, and I had the best time.” 

Before the presentation of awards, the candidates showed off their extravagant gowns during the evening wear segment. Some of the ladies had sparkle and glitter while the others were working with extra fabric and a shiny look.  

Shellhouse then shared her final message as Miss Troy University as she walked her final lap on the stage. 

 Some of the awards and winners of the night were McKinley Murray, a junior business management major from Hamilton, Montana, who was first runner-up and winner of the fitness award. Makaylah Harvey, a senior interdisciplinary studies major from Dothan, Alabama, was the third runner-up.  

Isabella Calasso, a sophomore nursing major from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, was fourth runner-up and winner of the talent and people’s choice awards. Jayden McQueen, a senior political science major from Crestview, Florida, won Miss Congeniality. 

“I didn't realize that this would be such an unforgettable experience,” McQueen said. “I can't believe that I got on the stage and showed my confidence and my passion for this community.  

“To any young woman here at Troy University, do this experience even if you've never done a pageant before. Show who you are and that you love this community and what you pour into it, you will get back in return, I promise.” 

Looking ahead, Tucker will compete for the title of Miss Alabama while serving as an ambassador for the university. 

“I wanted to compete because of service to a community that has already given so much to me, whether through church or organizations, and I want to give back,” Tucker said. “I love Troy and I want to say thank you to everyone who came to support me, especially my parents.  

“They’ve put so much into me, whether it’s dance or pageantry, and I’m so grateful. I’m ready to be the new Miss Troy 2026.  

“I’m ready to serve and be in the community.”