More than 100 people attended Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity’s Black and Gold pageant, themed “The Essence of a Woman,” Saturday night at the Worthington Inn.

The four contestants were Leslie Bates, graduate exercise science major; Tenisha Oliver, freshman sociology major; LaShawn Nimox, freshman journalism major; and Michelle Williams, sophomore sociology major.

The first category was the swimsuit/sportswear competition, followed by a talent showcase. There, Bates sang a song titled, “I Wish I Didn’t Miss You Anymore,” Oliver recited an inspirational speech about being a Christian woman, Nimox danced to a hip-hop mixed tape and Williams did a salsa dance with a member from the Sigma Lambda Beta fraternity.

When awards were announced, Nimox won the businesswear competition, Bates and Williams won for the swimwear competition.

Oliver won talent and shared the award with Bates for the evening gown/impromptu competition.

Oliver won a plaque for Miss Scholarship, Bates won a $150 check for Miss Enterprise and Williams won a plaque for Miss Congeniality.

First runner up in the pageant was Bates, followed by Williams and Nimox, respectively. Prizes included Bath and Body Works products, sashes, roses and trophies.

Oliver was the winner of the Miss Black and Gold pageant, and she received the same prizes as well as a tiara, a bouquet of flowers and a jewelry ensemble.

“I feel great about winning,” Oliver said. “All the hard work paid off.”

Oliver encouraged any young lady to try out for Miss Black and Gold because she said it was fun and it gave her the opportunity to get to know the fraternity.

“The Alpha’s are sweethearts,” Oliver said. “They are nice, respectful gentlemen.”