“It is the perfect combination of convenience and relaxation”
Birmingham native and Oak Mountain High School graduate Brooklyn Holt, 19, has a long list of accomplishments, and she is not slowing down. She was recently named Miss Auburn University 2017, a title she has dreamed of holding for many years. She is the daughter of Clarisse Holt and has a younger brother named Branson Holt, 18, who is only 14 months younger than Brooklyn. She is a sophomore at Auburn, where she is majoring in journalism and political science.
What do you love about Shelby County?
I love Shelby County’s pace of life. I think it is the perfect combination of convenience and relaxation. If I want to get away from the hustle and bustle I can, but I also am only minutes from a myriad of places to go, things to do, and sites to see. Also, I have to commend the Shelby County School system. They no doubt do an outstanding job preparing their students for college. I can attest to that as a graduate of Oak Mountain High School.
What does it mean to be named Miss Auburn University 2017? What will you do, and what will you receive, in this program?
To be named Miss Auburn University is a life-long dream come true. I have always wanted to attend Auburn University. I was so certain that I only applied to Auburn University. My love for this university is like none other and to be able to serve this campus and community is one of the best ways I can give back to the university that continually invests in me.
I will make appearances across Auburn’s campus and community. Also, I will spend my reign promoting my platform of “Raise Your Voice for Children.” In June, I will represent Auburn University at the Miss Alabama Pageant.
By winning Miss Auburn University, I received one-year full tuition to the university. Also, a myriad of sponsors donated items and gift certificates. For example, Ware Jewelers donated a diamond Auburn necklace.
What is your platform, and why did you choose it?
My platform is “Raise Your Voice for Children,” which addresses impoverished children and their families’ needs. My platform centers on the costly consequences to society when children’s basic needs are not met. Also, my goal is for all children to realize that we cannot dwell on challenges, but that we can accept them, work hard and turn them around, making them become our strengths. I host “Raise Your Voice for Children” concerts with talent from across the Southeast and with all proceeds going to Children’s Miracle Network. In addition, I have recorded a CD single, titled “Raise Your Voice.” I chose my platform because I have always dreamed of using my talents to positively impact the lives of others.
What appearances, events or projects are you looking forward to as Miss Auburn University?
One of the events I am looking forward to is my photoshoot with Aubie. Also, I am looking forward to sharing my platform with all of the Auburn community. There are so many interesting events and appearances I will get to experience. I am truly looking forward to all of them.
When will you graduate? What are your plans after that?
I plan to graduate in 2019 with a degree in journalism and political science. I have always wanted to be a sports reporter, so I plan to pursue a career in the broadcasting arena. Also, I had the opportunity to intern with Gov. Robert Bentley this past summer, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Press Office. So, I could also see myself pursuing a career dealing with communications within a political office.
What other awards or honors have you earned? What clubs and activities are you involved in at Auburn?
Member of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars; AU Dean’s List; AU Presidential Scholarship; AU Elite Dudley Scholarship; AU Board of Trustees Endowed Scholarship; 2015 Shelby County Distinguished Young Woman Academic Scholarship; 2015 Alabama Distinguished Young Woman Academic Scholarship; Producer of CD single, “Raise Your Voice;” Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award; Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of Shelby County 2015; DYW of Alabama 2015 1st Runner-Up; 2013 MAOT Quality of Life Community Service Award; Alabama Music Association “Inspiration Award;” International Vocalist Awards
At Auburn, I am a majorette in the Auburn University Marching Band. Also, I am employed by Auburn University as a Supplemental Instructor, or SI leader for Precalculus. I am in the Honors College, an ambassador for the Honors College, and ambassador for the College of Liberal Arts, and a member of Lambda Sigma Honor Society (Top 50 Sophomores). Also, I am a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority.
How will you prepare for competing in the Miss Alabama Pageant?
This will be my fifth year in the Miss America system, three in “Outstanding Teen” and now 2 in “Miss.” You could say I have been preparing for a long time. I will prepare for the Miss Alabama Pageant by staying updated on current events, practicing my vocal talent, working out and a myriad of other things. The Miss AU team of directors will help prepare me by hosting mock interviews along with many other things.
What is one thing on your bucket list you hope to fulfill, and why?
I hope to one day interview Cam Newton on the sidelines of an NFL game as a sports reporter.
What is something many people might not know about you?
I have performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville, TN.
What is your favorite place in Shelby County, and why?
Oak Mountain State Park, because it is a great place to relax, exercise, see great views, and escape for the day. Hiking with friends and taking advantage of all of the activities the park has to offer never disappoints.
