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TSU President Melvin N. Johnson issues an oath to the newly presented Mr. and Miss Tennessee State University James Alderman and Ceceila Friday. (Mario Stuart - The Meter)

'Evening of Elegance' crowns TSU king, queen

By: Staff Report

Posted: 10/20/08

Mr. and Miss TSU James Alderman and Ceceila Friday were adorned with crowns, gifts and support in the 79th annual Coronation, themed "An Evening of Elegance."

The two hour affair marked the first time both Miss TSU and Mr. TSU were officially presented to the campus community. In prior years, Mr. TSU was an auxiliary position created by the Student Union Board of Governors.

In the spring elections hosted by the Student Election Commission, students voted in a two-part referendum that determined that Mr. TSU would become an elected position, chosen during SEC Week and also added an extra dollar to the student activities fee to support Mr. and Miss TSU.

Because of a change in his responsibilities by Student Government Association, Mr. TSU now has a number of new privileges and responsibilities.

"(The House of Delegates) voted Mr. TSU in as a voting member last spring," explained Sonya Smith, assistant director of student activities. "Miss TSU already had those rights. With him being given the same rights and privileges, the Coronation officially became for both of them."

After a series of processional by members of the Royal Court, Friday was escorted to her throne by TSU President Melvin N. Johnson, while Alderman was escorted by first lady Marcelite Johnson.

Entertainment in the form of musical and dance tributes preceded special presentations from various community officials and the queens of student organizations.

Following the coronation, the court and students were welcome to attend a ball held at the Double Tree Hotel downtown.