Homecoming Queen: Yasmin Toto

What made you run for homecoming queen?

“What inspired me to run for homecoming court was when I found out that not once in SAU history was there a black female that won the homecoming queen title. With that being said, I spent a couple hours in the library after getting nominated to further my research. I was able to go through old year books and newspapers and confirmed that if I were to win I would indeed be the first ever black homecoming queen.”

How does it feel to have won?

“I feel amazing that I won because not only did I win for myself but for the whole black community at Sau. My victory shows that we too can be royalty even if there is a history of us not winning.”

How does it feel to become the first black homecoming queen ever at SAU?

“I honestly feel relieved that now I’m the first ever black homecoming queen. I finally proved the point that I wanted to make, and it feels so good. The support that I got throughout my election and even after winning is incredible. I’m glad that I was able to make a change on our campus.” 

How was the homecoming weekend, and was there any special ceremony for the king and queen?

“This homecoming weekend was one for the books. I had so much fun celebrating with my friends and even my family that came out here to celebrate me winning. There was no special ceremony for the king and queen besides coronation day, but we were announced at the football game.”

Why do you feel people voted for you?

“I feel like people voted for me because not only am I very well-known and involved in many clubs on campus but since I’ve been here, I’ve been very focused on creating change. From starting marches/rallies to helping host events to make our SAU community more diverse.”

What do you plan to do next?

“After I graduate from SAU, I plan on going to law school. I haven’t picked exactly where yet, but I know I want to continue to be the voice for those who cannot voice for themselves.” 

Homecoming King: Zach Denton

What made you run for homecoming king?

“I was nominated to be on the ballot, and I thought it would be fun.”

How does it feel to have won?

“It feels good. It’s nice to know that I’ve positively affected enough people to have won.”

How was the homecoming weekend, and was there any special ceremony for the king and queen?

“The homecoming weekend was super fun. I had a great time.  Yasmin and I were first crowned at the pep rally on Friday and then we were recrowned at the football game on Saturday. My favorite moment was at the football game when I was walking around talking to students and alumni making more social connections.”

Why do you feel people voted for you?

“I’m just heavily involved. I’ve met a lot of people through my activities.”

What do you plan to do next?

“My plan is to finish my degree and then pursue a doctorate in PH. Hopefully that will lead to jobs in that field.”