FAMU DRS student makes royal court history

Miss FAMU DRS & Miss May Queen, Kennede Sapp
Photo credit: Roger Walker

Every queen wants her fairytale, Kennede Sapp’s reality became more exciting than she could have ever imagined. A senior at Florida A&M University (FAMU) Development Research School (DRS), Sapp was elected to serve as the 2018-19 Miss FAMU DRS as well as Miss May Queen.

These elections were pure coincidence. She received approval to declare candidacy for both positions, not to be greedy, but to have a shot at living her dream that she has had since the 6th grade. This dream was to be Miss DRS or to have the privilege of honoring the legacy of her two aunts, who both served as Miss May Queen, thus creating the theme of her campaign, “The Dream Versus the Legacy.”

“I realized that I was running unopposed for Miss May Queen when I went to cast my vote, and then when I found out I had won the position of Miss FAMU DRS I was mind-blown, “ Sapp said. ” I never imagined that I would get this type of opportunity. It was beyond a dream come true.”

Sapp had not only honored the legacy of her aunts as Miss May Queen, she also became a part of the rich history of The FAMU DRS as the first young lady to be elected and serve as both Miss FAMU DRS and Miss May Queen.

Miss FAMU DRS serves as an ambassador for the DRS as well as an advocate on behalf of the student body. She will be crowned during homecoming at the FAMU DRS coronation ceremony. Miss May Queen is crowned during the month of May at the May Day Celebration, which historically celebrates the coming of spring and the matriculation to a new grade.

In addition to her new responsibilities as a campus queen, Sapp is also very active in the student life at DRS. She is involved with multiple activities such as volleyball, cheerleading and flag football.

“It can be a lot to maintain,” Sapp explained, “but I have to keep a go-getter mindset to continue to push myself. I also have a very supportive family who are always there to pick me up and keep me on the straight and narrow. My aunts, grandma and parents keep me grounded and constantly encourage me to do my best.

Sapp’s aunt and 1988 FAMU High May Queen Kimberly Kirby said, “It is truly a joy to watch my niece live out her dreams, however I always remind her that she must never lose her way, to remain humble… to be the best she must do her best.”

Mr. Walker,  FAMU DRS Middle School Principal and longtime DRS Royal Court advisor, said, “This is a remarkable moment in time, and I want Kennede to continue to be a role model to her peers as well as the younger students who look up to her as Miss DRS and Miss May Queen.”

Sapp is looking forward to fulfilling her platform points and enjoying her senior year with her friends.

“I hope to leave behind a positive legacy that will live on well after I have graduated from DRS.” Sapp said, “A legacy that sends a message to young people, girls especially, that your dreams can become your reality.”