SGA & PBL Crown the 2023 Mr. and Ms. Panhandle State

On February 2nd, Oklahoma Panhandle State University hosted the annual Mr. and Ms. Panhandle State Scholarship Competition at the Hughes-Strong Auditorium. The competition, organized by the Student Government Association and the Panhandle Business Leaders, showcased eight outstanding students.

The winners of this prestigious event were Kenley Yocom from Ralls, TX, and Carlos Flores from Texhoma, OK. Kenley, a Junior majoring in Psychology and a talented softball player, and Carlos, a Junior majoring in Finance and Management, impressed the judges with their poise, confidence, and exceptional answers to the on-stage questions.

University President, Dr. Julie Dinger, stated, “Congratulations to Kenley Yocom and Carlos Flores on being named Mr. & Ms. Panhandle State for 2023. This Scholarship competition awards the recipients a $2,000 scholarship each. Thank you to the Student Government Association and PBL for holding this event. I know that Kenley and Carlos will continue to represent Panhandle State well.”

Kenley’s favorite thing about Panhandle State is the community. “They make me feel at home even if you are hours away from your family. While here, I have made many lifelong friendships that I will forever cherish,” she stated. After graduation, Kenley plans to become a guidance counselor for children in school while also being a softball coach.

Carlos serves as Vice President for three organizations, including the Student Government Association, Panhandle Business Leaders, and Student Athlete Advisory Council. His favorite thing about Panhandle State is “the ability to grow professionally on a small campus as well as the relationships made with fellow students, faculty, staff, and community.”

The competition judges were Hannah Johnson, Kaly Smith, and Manuel Medina, who evaluated the contestants based on their resumes, interviews, on-stage questions, casual wear, and evening wear. The competition was a true testament to these students’ incredible talent and ambition.

“We are thrilled to announce Kenley and Carlos as the winners of this year’s Mr. and Ms. Panhandle State Scholarship Competition,” said Kim Smith, SGA Advisor. “Their achievements and dedication to their academic and extracurricular pursuits make them excellent ambassadors for our university, and we are proud to have them represent Panhandle State.”

Panhandle State congratulates Kenley and Carlos on their achievements and wishes them continued success in their academic and personal endeavors.