UCO’s Lauren Nelson crowned Miss America
 Miss America 2007, Lauren Nelson, is crowned by the outgoing Miss America and fellow Oklahoman, Jennifer Berry. Photo courtesy of the Miss America Organization. |
University of Central Oklahoma Music Theatre sophomore Lauren Nelson was crowned Miss America 2007 Jan. 29 in Las Vegas, becoming the sixth Miss Oklahoma to win the Miss America Pageant.
Nelson, 20, is the daughter of Mark and Sherrell Nelson of Lawton, and has appeared in several musical productions at UCO’s Jazz Lab and Mitchell Hall Theater.
She was one of two freshmen chosen to perform in the production of Pajama Game and was a featured performer in UCO’s production of Hot N’ Cole: A Cole Porter Celebration.
With the title, Nelson won a $50,000 scholarship to continue her education. She plans to obtain a master’s degree in music theatre and to become a Broadway performer.
“It became apparent very early, that Lauren is very special…very talented,” said Greg White, UCO music theater director.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have her as part of our Music Theater department, and will be looking forward to the day she is able to perform on the UCO stage again.”
During the talent portion of the pageant, Nelson sang “You’ll Be In My Heart.”
“When I was little girl, I always watched Miss America, but I never dreamed I’d be one of those girls up on the stage,” said Nelson in a quote to the Associated Press.
“It’s just the neatest thing…It’s just a huge thrill.”
Contact: Charles Johnson, UCO, (405) 974-2315.