In a historic moment for Porter-Gaud School in Charleston, South Carolina, 17-year-old Amber Wilsondebriano has become the institution’s first black homecoming queen in over a century and a half. DuBose Egleston, the school’s head, expressed his pride in Amber’s achievement.
Amber’s journey to this remarkable honor is a testament to her commitment to the school’s mission, which emphasizes purpose, learning, and service. Egleston highlights that she embodies all these qualities and serves as a shining example of a student who inspires her peers. He notes, “We celebrate Amber’s election as she joins the many noteworthy homecoming queens we’ve had since our school became co-educational in 1972.”
A Remarkable Scholar and Community Leader
Amber has accomplished more than just being the homecoming queen. She has a stellar 4.66 GPA and is a senior honors track student. She is also a proactive leader who co-founded the Black Excellence Society, among other school clubs.
However, Amber’s journey to winning the coveted crown was not without its doubts. When she received her nomination, she confessed, “I didn’t feel confident I would win.” Yet her fellow students rallied behind her, assuring her of their votes. She felt both great honor and relief when her name was called as the queen. Her friends gave her a truly unique experience that night, and the excitement was something she would never forget.
A Unique Child, A Future Artist
Amber’s mother, Monique Wilsondebriano, has always acknowledged her daughter’s remarkable traits. Apart from her scholastic accomplishments, Amber is an accomplished painter who learned how to paint on her own. “She is truly a boon,” proudly declares Monique. Because they recognized her uniqueness, her friends and peers cast their votes for her to become queen. Amber’s affable demeanor and steadfast loyalty make her popular among many.
Amber considers the significance of her win as she looks forward to her next adventure at the Savannah College of Art and Design. She emphasizes the importance of representation, saying, “I knew that being able to show up as a role model would inspire so many young children.” Being the first black homecoming queen at her school makes her very proud, and she hopes that by doing this, she will inspire young girls and kids to think that anything is possible.
Become a Chapter in History
In addition to being a personal victory, Amber Wilsondebriano’s coronation as Porter-Gaud School’s first black homecoming queen in 155 years is a momentous occasion that emphasizes the value of diversity and representation in academic settings. Amber’s journey, marked by her dedication, leadership, and artistic talents, serves as an inspiration to all aspiring students. Her legacy will surely have an effect on coming generations, serving as a reminder that obstacles can be overcome and aspirations can come true.
