Miss Troy: from an ambassador to a college student

Preparations are beginning for the Miss Troy University Pageant. On Oct. 9, one young woman will be chosen to represent Troy University as an ambassador.  

Being Miss Troy University comes with many responsibilities, such as maintaining a GPA of at least 2.7 and maintaining a community service initiative of her choice. She is also expected to make public appearances at university events, ranging from athletic to celebratory. 

Miss Troy University receives a $7,500 scholarship and a chance to participate in the Miss Alabama Pageant. However, while she is an ambassador for the university, she also has to balance her life as a college student. 

Grace Shellhouse, the current Miss Troy University, is a senior political science major from Andalusia, Alabama. While she performs her duties of representing the university, she is also in the process of applying for law school and is a member of the Sound of the South Danceline.  

“Balancing everything definitely takes discipline,” Shellhouse said. “I’ve learned the importance of time management and prioritizing what matters most. 

“I’m really lucky to have supportive professors, teammates and friends who encourage me along the way.”  

Shellhouse reflected on the opportunities given to her during her term as Miss Troy. She also plans to compete in the Miss Alabama organization, using what she’s learned from Troy to help her. 

“I’ve been able to meet incredible leaders like the Secretary of State, serve the community and build relationships I’ll carry with me long after my time at Troy,” Shellhouse said. “I hope the future Miss Troy is someone who truly strives to be a servant of all; a great way to be a great leader is to be a great servant.” 

There are multiple interest meetings leading up to the competition in October, taking place on , Sept. 3 and Sept. 11. The current co-directors both have had previous experience competing in the Miss Troy University pageant and want to share their love of the pageant with young women across campus. 

“Miss Troy University is an opportunity to grow, build confidence and form lasting connections,” said co-director of the pageant, Leslie Scrushy. “It develops leadership and communication skills while opening doors that prepare young women for life at college and beyond. 

 “There is absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain by participating.” 

With a new Miss Troy being selected, it also means the current Miss Troy’s term comes to an end. Working with Shellhouse was something Scrushy said has been a blessing. 

“Grace has been a blessing to work with, and her energy, discipline and authenticity have been a joy to experience,” said Scrushy. “We have grown to love her, and while it is hard to see her term end, we are excited to see all the ways she will continue to bless others in not only the Miss Alabama system but in her career.” 

To compete in the Miss Troy University pageant, contestants must be 18 years old, enrolled as a student at Troy, in good academic standing and meet the other eligibility requirements for the role. For more information regarding the Miss Troy pageant, contact Leslie Scrushy at lscrushy@troy.edu or Angie Grice at abgrice@bellsouth.net.