By Caroline Lee
Lifestyles Editor

For University of Mississippi alumna Brooke Beard, this dream became a reality when she was crowned Miss University 2009. As Beard prepares to represent the university in the 2009 Miss Mississippi pageant, she will be participating in the Miss University Trunk Show Thursday, July 9.

The Trunk Show serves to preview all of Beard’s pageant wardrobe and chosen talent she will perform in the competition.

It will also provide a venue to give her farewell as she goes on to compete for the title of Miss Mississippi.

“The Trunk Show is our way of honoring Miss University and letting her know that the Ole Miss family is behind her as she competes for the title of Miss Mississippi,” said Jennifer Taylor, Director of Campus Programming.

Taylor said former Miss University winners have been historically successful in receiving high recognition at the Miss Mississippi pageant.

If Beard’s current honors are any indication of her performance at the upcoming pageant, she will likely be no exception.

“Brooke is very dedicated and passionate about raising awareness for her platform, the Children’s Miracle Network and the Blair E. Batson’s Children’s Hospital,” Taylor said.

Beard and Taylor have worked tirelessly since Beard was crowned Miss University.

Taylor has assisted Beard in practicing everything from mock interviews to talent rehearsals.

Taylor has been involved with helping the past eight Miss University winners prepare for the Miss Mississippi and Miss America programs.

The programs, Taylor said, are life-changing.

“It humbles me that our Miss University has the faith to allow me to work with her to prepare for the state pageant each year,” she said.

In the actual Trunk Show, attendees will get to see her arrival outfit, interview suit, autograph party dress, swimsuit, parade gown, evening gown and talent outfit.

There will also be a showing of her ballet performance, which was recorded at the Ford Center.

“People will be able to see all of my outfits if they can’t attend the Miss Mississippi pageant or if they can’t come each night,” Beard said. “It’s also an opportunity for me to let everyone know how appreciative I am of their support and to say ‘thank you.’”

The Trunk Show will take place July 9 at 3:30 p.m. in the Johnson Commons and will be followed by a reception and autograph session.