There She Is, Miss America!

NEA Today, Apr 2006 by Hickey, Caitlin

And she has both beauty and brains going for her.

RECENTLY CROWNED Jennifer Berry is a University of Oklahoma (OU) student and NEA Student member, majoring in elementary education. She plans to use her $30,000 prize to pursue a graduate degree in education.

"Education is the foundation for a successful and secure nation," Berry told the judges in a pre-pageant Questionnaire.

Berry wowed the judges with her dancing-a passion she began studying at age 3-and her thoughtful platform against drunk driving and underage drinking. Since losing a friend to an alcohol-related accident, Berry has been an avid volunteer and spokesperson for the issue, and has spoken to groups of incoming OU freshmen regarding the potential dangers of alcohol.

After this year of roses and crowns, Berry plans to return from center stage to the classroom, going back to OU for her senior year.

-CAITLIN HICKEY