Historic 2026 Mister and Miss HBCU Competition Celebrates Leadership & Excellence
The 2026 Mister and Miss HBCU Competition took place on January 24th in Charlotte, North Carolina, bringing together some of the most distinguished student leaders from Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation. The annual event is more than a pageant. It is a leadership conference and competition dedicated to recognizing excellence, character, community service, and representation among campus royalty from HBCUs across the country. The competition has grown into one of the premier leadership showcases within the HBCU community, honoring young men and women who represent not only beauty and poise but also academic achievement, commitment to service, and the future leaders of tomorrow. The event is held as part of the larger Mister HBCU Kings’ Leadership Conference and Competition which spans multiple days and includes personal development activities, workshops, and networking opportunities for participants.
Crowns were awarded to individuals who demonstrated outstanding leadership, community engagement, and HBCU pride throughout the rigorous competition. In the top honors for 2026, Eden Boles was crowned Miss HBCU. Representing Howard University as the 87th Miss Howard University, Boles captured the attention of judges and audiences alike with her grace, intellect, and strong presence. She now holds the title of Miss HBCU and joins a lineage of women who have used their platforms to uplift and empower HBCU communities.
On the gentlemen’s side, Demitrus Purnell, representing Norfolk State University as the 23rd Mister Norfolk State University, was crowned 22nd Mister HBCU. Purnell’s achievement highlights his dedication to leadership, scholarship, and representing his institution with pride and distinction.
The congeniality awards, which celebrate those whose spirit and character stand out among their peers, went to Thesha Ramona Johnson Jr., the 83rd Miss North Carolina Central University, and Stanley D’Andre St. Vilus II, the 15th Mister Johnson C. Smith University. Their recognition reflects the friendships, support, and positive energy they brought to the competition stage and throughout the weekend.
The first runners-up positions were claimed by Kevin Bland Jr., the 58th Mister LeMoyne-Owen College, and Mariah Couch, the 91st Miss North Carolina A&T State University. Second runners-up honors went to Hamid Jalloh, the 49th Mister Howard University, and Re’Ana Barrentine, the 86th Miss Winston-Salem State University.
This year’s competition once again showcased the remarkable talent, leadership, and collective spirit of HBCU students. Each competitor brought their own story, dedication, and purpose to the stage, reflecting the values of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, institutions known for producing some of the nation’s most influential leaders. The 2026 Mister and Miss HBCU Competition celebrated not only the winners and their achievements but also the broader HBCU legacy that continues to shape culture, scholarship, and community worldwide.
