Juanita Hamilton: The First Miss Texas Southern University
Written by Amber Land on March 26, 2025
By Amber Land
Nearly 75 years ago, Juanita Hamilton made history as the first Miss Texas Southern University (TSU)—an achievement that became a turning point for the institution and its students.
Yet, the path to this moment came with challenges.
Hamilton enrolled at TSU in 1948, when it was still known as Texas State University for Negroes. Determined to set a new precedent, TSU students petitioned the state legislature to remove the phrase ‘for Negroes.’ Their efforts soon paid off.
In 1951, the university was officially renamed Texas Southern University. Shortly after the change, Hamilton became the first-ever Miss TSU to reign under the university’s new name.
“As the first Miss TSU, she paved the way for all of us,” 77th Miss TSU Brianna Turner said. “Her courage reminds me that I’m part of something bigger—a legacy of strong women who shaped this university.”
Hamilton remained a pioneer far beyond her crown. She joined several inaugural university organizations, including the Women’s League and the Dramatic Club. Her title marked a new chapter for TSU, where students could stand taller and take greater pride in their identity.
Former Miss TSU Ashley Patton, who served in 2006-07, said she relates to what it means to gracefully wear the crown amidst change. Patton represented the university during a period of financial instability and administrative challenges. Despite the uncertainties, she carried herself with the same poise and determination Hamilton once embodied.
“Today, it is still an honor to be part of such a legacy and to continue to represent our school as I grow in my career,” Patton said.
Being Miss TSU was the highlight of my time on campus and still remains on of my greatest accomplishments.
Ashley Patton, 54th Miss Texas Southern University
Since 1951, numerous Queens have reigned as Miss TSU, each leaving with a unique experience. 74th Miss TSU Mariah Cambell holds the belief that God allowed her to serve as Miss TSU to help empower the TSU community.
“It’s more than the crown and ‘looking cute,’ but it’s an opportunity to positively impact the lives of those around you,” Cambell said.
As future generations of queens take the throne, they do so standing on the shoulders of several women.
Before Hamilton, three previous women were crowned Miss TSU under the university’s previous name: Peggy Jean Watson in 1947, Evelyn Bell in 1949, and La Vonne Taylor in 1950.
While the university honors Hamilton’s pioneering role as the first Miss TSU, it also celebrates the queens who followed her and those who will continue the tradition.
Together, these women continue to inspire future generations—one queen at a time.
