FRANKLIN — The Franklin-Jeanerette Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. hosted its 28th annual Cotillion-Beautillion Presentation at the West St. Mary Civic Center earlier this spring.

The 2018 Cotillion-Beautillion Committee was comprised of Mrs. Lue Pearl Robertson-Washington, chairperson and co-chairpersons; Constance Guy Butler, Shalonda Johnson, Alexis Rack and Demetria Smith. The decorative transformation of the auditorium exemplified the theme “A Star-Studded Night Under the City Lights,” formally showcasing the presentation of Debutantes and Beaus.

The event was the culmination of the diligent efforts of chapter president, Mrs. Tanya Johnson-Anderson and the Cotillion-Beautillion Committee engaging debutante and beau participation in social, cultural, educational and service-related activities. The result of the process positively reinforces critical high self-esteem principles and ethical standards that will last a lifetime. Strong morals values, continuous education, achievement, leadership skill-building through volunteerism and community service, effective communication skills, refined social skills and camaraderie are tools to accomplish these goals.

In following its commitment to youth in the community, the Franklin-Jeanerette Alumnae Chapter sponsored the debut of the Delta Sweetheart, Alana Mone` Wilson. The annual presentation is a continuance of the vision and dreams of charter members, past and current members of the chapter, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s unwavering dedication to youth and communities.

The presentation of all debutantes and beaus into society preceded the crowning of royalty for the event. The 100 Black Men of St. Mary Parish, with whom Franklin-Jeanerette alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Inc. has cultivated a strategic partnership, played an integral role in the Cotillion-Beautillion. Mr. JBertrand Ina served as Master of Ceremonies.

Queen E’Tajanay Lashay Smith is a graduating senior who attends Franklin High School and is a member of Asbury United Methodist Church of Franklin under the leadership of Rev. Darlene Moore. She is the daughter of Ethan and LaTasha Smith and Michael and Cheryl Lewis, guardians. Queen E’Tajanay is active with basketball and volleyball and participates in many community service projects. She plans to attend Southern University and A and M College in Baton Rouge to major in nursing. Her escort for the night was Ashlee Miller.

The queen’s royal court included first runner up, Raniqua K’Tre Toussaint, daughter of Sarah Hopkins and Ranaldo Toussaint Sr., escorted by Markayden Parker. Second runner up was Javryn Jania Johnson, daughter of Christian Gilliam, escorted by Myles Liggans. Third runner up and Delta’s Sweetheart, Alana Mone’ Wilson, is the daughter of Monica Peters and the late Edward Wilson Jr. She was escorted by Kylan Peters.

King Daylon Todd Richard is the son of Sedrick and Amber Richard Tillman and Jackie Roberson Jr. of Baldwin. He is the grandson of the late Clayton Richard, Vergie Richard; Nathaniel Lockett; Conrell and Patricia Collins Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Jackie Roberson Sr. and Gwen Roberson. Todd is a member and youth volunteer of Fresh Water Ministries of Lafayette under the leadership of Rev. Felton and First Lady Faye Henry. He was escorted by Brooklyn Armani Richard. As a graduating senior at West St. Mary High School, Todd has been recognized as a Wolfpack All Academic Team member and MVP Defensive Player for Basketball. Todd is the recipient of the Coaches Award for Basketball, 2nd Team All District in Football, 2nd Team All District in Basketball, 2nd Team All District in Baseball, 1st Team All District in Track 4 by 200 Relay, Offensive MVP Award for baseball, Rehabilitation Player of the Week, 2018 WSM Prom Prince, 2018 WSM Homecoming King and recognized as the Haik, Minvielle and Grubbs Offensive Player of the Week. Todd has been featured in the Louisiana Gridiron Football Magazine and a 2018—2019 West St. Mary Student of the Year Candidate. Todd’s community service includes volunteering for Fire District No. 11 and providing assistance with strength and agility training for children in his community. Todd’s career plan is to attend a four year university to major in global finance. He has been recruited by several prominent universities.

The king’s royal court included first runner up, Beau Braydon Jamal Ward, son of the late Rachel Ward, Gilbert Grogan and guardian Carolyn Phillips-Grogan. He was escorted by Jermanee Williams.

The alumnae chapter also is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for higher education through its commitment to the National Five Point Programmatic Thrust under educational development.

In May 2018, the Chapter awarded over $2,200 in scholarships and book stipends to three students from West St. Mary High School, two students from Franklin High School, one student from Patterson High School and one student from Morgan City High School. Scholarships will also be award in 2019.