Whidbey Royalty tells Oak Harbor council its pageant program has distributed nearly $197,000 in scholarships
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Summary
Whidbey Royalty representatives and current court members presented the scholarship pageant’s mission, history and community service to the council, saying the nonprofit has run multiple pageants since 2015 and has provided about $197,000 in scholarships and awards.
River Powers, board president of Whidbey Royalty, and members of the 2024–2025 royalty courts addressed the Oak Harbor City Council on March 18 to describe the nonprofit’s scholarship pageant programs and community service activities.
“Our mission is to empower youth by providing a platform that fosters networking, cultivates a sense of responsibility, and embraces the acceptance of all,” said Alina Locklear, identified in the presentation as Miss Oak Harbor 2025 second princess, reading the organization’s mission statement.
The presenters told council that the organization traces its local pageant origins to 2015, when organizers produced the Miss Oak Harbor scholarship pageant. The program grew from nine contestants in 2015 to about 25 within two years, they said. After a hiatus and organizational changes, the group now runs three annual competitions: the Miss Oak Harbor scholarship pageant (high school-age contest), the Mr. Oak Harbor scholarship competition (added in 2023) and the Pioneer Way pageant for ages newborn through 14.
Whidbey Royalty representatives said the program provides a seven-week coaching program for high-school contestants covering public speaking, interviews, platform development, stage presence and related skills. They said judging covers multiple categories including interview, platform presentation, formalwear, talent and service.
The organization reported having held 11 high-school scholarship pageants since 2015 and delivering “over $197,000 in scholarships and awards,” the presenters said. Volunteers and court members described a wide range of community activities, from fundraising for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County to volunteering at local events and parades.
Council members praised the organization’s visibility and youth work. Mayor Pro Tem said he was impressed by how often royalty members appear at community events, and Councilmember Wiesner thanked River Powers for her leadership and volunteer work.
Ending: Whidbey Royalty asked council to consider volunteering as judges and invited councilmembers and residents to upcoming events; no council action or vote followed the presentation.
