By Allison Davis
Elm Staff Writer
Twelve brave male contestants from every class competed in the rodeo-themed competition for the titles of Crowd Favorite, Most Talented, and of course, the Big Man on Campus award in Zeta Tau Alpha’s annual male beauty pageant.
Big Man on Campus is one of ZTA’s annual fundraisers to support their philanthropy of breast cancer awareness. The event was held in the CAC Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 24.
Leading up to the competition, money could be placed in each contestant’s jar, which would eventually be counted to award the Crowd Favorite title.
The guys worked hard in preparation for the event. The sisters of ZTA taught them the opening dance. The guys entered the stage with a bang with their opening dance to the song, “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy.”
Each contestant was presented to the audience with their choice of costume. Some chose to go formal with a suit and tie, and some chose a more casual approach, with a Speedo and towel. The boys could also choose their own music, which gave them a lot of freedom. This portion introduced their personality and creativity to both the judges and the audience.
Sophomore Jenna Rogge, a sister of ZTA, said that they “were lucky to have an amazing and diverse group of guys.” The diversity showed during the talent portion. The guys performed for the crowd by singing, ribbon dancing, reverse strip-teasing, and even with stand-up comedy.
Junior Tad Derrick was awarded Crowd Favorite for raising more than $90. When asked about his strategy for the pageant, he said he “just wanted to go out and have fun with it.”
Senior Ryan Bankert was crowned Most Talented. He originally tied with senior Lawrence Baker, but Bankert received more overall points, which led to his win of the title.
After an entertaining presentation of contestants, sophomore Nicholas Staub was crowned Big Man on Campus. Junior Courtney Gowland said “he blew the judges away with his acappella performance of My Girl.” He won a total of 115 points out of the possible 120.
Junior Courtney Gowland worked extremely hard to plan this event, and she says she’s happy about her sisters coming together to help her out throughout the entire planning process.
Overall, the sisters of Zeta Tau Alpha raised close to $1,500 for breast cancer awareness. from Admissions, as well as the proceeds that each guy individually raised in his jar. The proceeds all went to various breast cancer awareness campaigns.
Courtney Gowland was happy to say that the sisters” are already looking forward to next year.”