McNeese Crowns 2025 Titleholders

McNeese State University revived the Miss McNeese LaBelle, Miss McNeese LaBelle Teen and Mr. McNeese LeBeau Titleholders event this year. 

McNeese freshman, Avery Carnahan of Longville was crowned Miss McNeese LaBelle. Priscilla Caldwell, a junior at Barbe High School, was crowned Miss McNeese LaBelle’s Teen. McNeese freshman, Xavier Thomas of Mamou was crowned Mr. McNeese LeBeau. 

Carnahan and Caldwell will have the opportunity to compete in the Miss Louisiana and Miss Louisiana Teen events that are part of the Miss America programs. 

According to Bralyn Simmons, director of student activities at McNeese, the titleholders will also become ambassadors for the university by representing McNeese at various events and participating in philanthropic and volunteer efforts in Southwest Louisiana. 

The competition breakdown for Miss McNeese La Belle and Miss McNeese La Belle Teen is private interview 30%, on stage question 10%, health and fitness 20%, talent 20% and evening gown 20%. The competition breakdown for Mr. McNeese Le Beau is private interview 30%, on stage question 10%, casual wear 20%, talent 20% and evening wear or suit 20%. 

“Contestants develop self-confidence, public speaking skills and stage presence, which are beneficial in academic, professional and personal settings,” explained Simmons. “Through pageant preparation, contestants learn to answer questions concisely and effectively and to prioritize physical fitness, nutrition and self-care. These skills not only enhance contestants’ abilities to perform well but also prepare them for success in their future pursuits.” 

Participants for the Mr. McNeese Le Beau and Miss McNeese La Belle must be full-time McNeese students with a grade point average of 2.5 and above.