For nearly two centuries, students at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) have been empowered to go above and beyond in their collegiate journeys and strive for personal growth. Emma Sanders, a freshman nursing major from Marshall, Illinois, is doing just that.
In August 2024, Sanders was crowned Miss Clark County for Clark County, Illinois. “I met so many people from my hometown and surrounding counties by doing the pageant. It was an amazing experience,” Sanders said. A unique factor in her experience is that her younger sister was crowned Junior Miss Clark County. “It was a fun experience for us both. We are the second set of sister queens that have ever been crowned for Clark County,” she said.
Sanders explained that competing in queen pageants is a significant time commitment and takes determination. “You participate in several rehearsals and prepare as if you’re taking a test.” After winning Miss Clark County, Sanders realized she wanted to take the leap and compete at the next level.
Sanders will venture to Springfield, Illinois, to compete in the Illinois State Fair Queen Contest on Saturday, January 18th. In the competition, 70 counties will be represented. Sanders said it’s viewed as more than a competition. “When you’re in the queen sisterhood, you learn how to bond with others, and it’s really about making friendships, too,” she said.
In addition to enhancing her skills in public speaking, pageant etiquette and more, she is looking forward to building her network in various ways. “This experience will allow me to meet new people from all around the state, which I wouldn’t be able to do in my day-to-day life. I’m very excited,” Sanders said.
Sanders shared that this accomplishment marked more than a milestone for her, but it reassured her that persistence and determination are the keys to success. “This was my third year entering my county’s queen contest. In my first year, I was very unsure and wanted to try something new. My second year, I realized that I liked it, and my third year, I told myself, ‘I’ve got this’,” she said. Each year helped her gain more confidence and learn.
Although the idea of state-wide competitions can be daunting, Sanders encourages anyone to consider participating. “It’s a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and express yourself. I really feel that anyone should do it if given the chance. I think it’s a great experience for all ages,” she said. Sanders looks forward to representing herself, her hometown, county and SMWC.